Radiotherapy on the nose: what to know

Radiotherapy may be considered for a skin cancer or another tumour involving the nose when the team believes a focused treatment plan is suitable. The area is mapped carefully, and a mask or other positioning aid may help you remain still. The plan considers the eyes, nasal passages, cartilage and surrounding skin. Treatment may be delivered over repeated visits, with the schedule chosen for the diagnosis and treatment goal.

The treated skin can become dry, red, tender or itchy. Nasal lining irritation may cause crusting, dryness, congestion or a small amount of bleeding. Tiredness can also occur. These effects may increase during treatment and settle gradually; use only skin or nasal products approved by your team.

Wash gently with lukewarm water, pat dry, and avoid rubbing, picking or adhesive products over the treatment field. Protect the nose from strong sunlight and extreme cold or heat as advised. Do not apply creams, oils or antiseptic products unless the team recommends them. Tell staff about glasses, contact lenses, nasal sprays, allergies and any previous surgery. Keep appointments so the skin and treatment response can be checked.

Report increasing pain, spreading redness, open or weeping skin, persistent nosebleeds, worsening swelling, vision changes, fever or difficulty breathing. Seek emergency help for uncontrolled bleeding, sudden vision loss, severe swelling of the face or breathing difficulty. A sore treated area can be expected, but rapidly worsening symptoms need assessment rather than self-treatment.

What is the treatment target and how will my eyes and nasal passages be protected? How should I clean and moisturise the area? Which products should I avoid? When might skin reactions appear? Who should I call about bleeding, infection or vision changes?