How effective is radiotherapy for nasal and sinus cancer?

Radiotherapy uses carefully planned radiation to damage cancer cells in a defined area. For nasal and sinus cancer, the target may be close to the eyes, brain, nerves, mouth or teeth, so planning aims to treat the tumour while limiting exposure to nearby healthy tissue. It may be used after surgery, before or with other treatment, or when surgery is not suitable. The expected result is different for each person and depends on the exact sinus involved, tumour size, grade, spread and whether the aim is cure, reducing the chance of return, or easing symptoms.

Ask the oncology team to explain the treatment goal and how imaging will guide the radiation field. Tell them about previous surgery, dental problems, eye symptoms, medicines and any difficulty eating. You may need dental assessment before treatment if the mouth or upper jaw is near the target. During treatment, follow skin and mouth-care advice, keep planned appointments and report worsening soreness, dryness, vision changes or trouble swallowing. A radiotherapy specialist can explain preparation and side effects.

Contact the treatment team promptly for new or worsening vision changes, severe facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, inability to drink, repeated vomiting, fever or breathing difficulty. Sudden confusion, weakness, a severe headache or a seizure needs emergency assessment. These symptoms require attention whether or not radiotherapy has started.

Which area will be treated, and is the aim to remove visible cancer, reduce recurrence risk or relieve symptoms? How will my eyes, brain, teeth and nasal tissues be protected? Could surgery or another treatment be combined with radiotherapy? Which side effects should I report the same day?