Does radiotherapy treat nasal and sinus cancer?

The nasal cavity and sinuses sit close to the eyes, brain, mouth, and important nerves, so treatment is carefully planned from scans. Radiotherapy may be used after surgery to treat cells that could remain, instead of surgery in selected situations, or alongside medicines when the cancer needs more than one approach. The exact plan depends on the cancer type, its position, whether it has reached nearby structures, and your general health. The radiation team shapes the beams around the target while limiting exposure to surrounding tissue.

Bring your scan and biopsy questions to the head and neck cancer team. Tell them about previous operations, dental problems, dry mouth, vision changes, facial numbness, and medicines. Planning can include a custom mask to help you stay in the same position. Ask whether dental review, nasal care, nutrition support, or other treatment should happen before radiotherapy. Keep the skin and mouth-care instructions available during the course.

Contact your care team promptly for new vision loss, severe eye pain, rapidly increasing facial swelling, heavy bleeding, inability to drink, or breathing difficulty. A high fever, confusion, or sudden severe headache also needs urgent assessment. Do not wait for the next appointment if symptoms change quickly, particularly during active treatment.

Is radiotherapy planned before or after surgery? Which nearby organs are being protected? Will I need a mask or dental assessment? How will nasal blockage, mouth dryness, skin reaction, or tiredness be managed?