Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ  |  Radiation Treatment FAQ

Q: Are additional pre-op clearance, EKG, chest x-ray and blood tests required for the third and fourth HDR treatments?

A: No, they are typically not required.

Q: What do I need to bring when I come to the Cancer Center for treatment?

A: If you are interested in coming to the Cancer Center of Irvine for treatment, you first need to call (949) 417-1100 to make an appointment. The receptionist will let you know what you need to do. Here is a list of things to bring with you when you come in for the first time. 

• Any medical records
• Recent doctor notes
• Any recent labs
• Recent pathology
• Scans (MRI, CT, PET, Ultrasound)
• Films
• Insurance cards
• Forms (upon calling the Cancer Center, the needed forms will be sent to you along with a map to the Center)

Q: What can I expect during a consultation with my doctor?

A: During your consultation with the doctor, s/he will:

• Collect your history
• Review results of tests and pathology reports you brought with you
• Perform a physical exam (DRE)
• Review with you your prostate anatomy and cancer
• Review and discuss your treatment options

All of your test and laboratory results are important in order for your doctor to make the best decision in outlining your treatment options for you. If you were not able to obtain all your information prior to the consultation, it is important to make sure that the results of your tests are forwarded to the doctor.

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Radiation Treatment FAQ

Q: Will I feel anything during the radiation treatments?

A: No. The radiation treatments are similar to getting an X-ray. You will not feel anything, but you will hear the machine buzzing when the radiation is being administered.

Q: What are the side effects from radiation to the prostate?

Side effects may include tiredness, diarrhea or constipation, upset stomach, frequent or burning urination, and rectal irritation. These symptoms will go away on their own after completion of the radiation treatments. Keep in mind, everyone is different; you may or may not experience any of the listed side effects.

Q: Can I drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages?

A: Drinking alcoholic or caffeinated beverages is not recommended during radiation treatment, as they would increase frequency of urination. However, we do recommend drinking plenty of fluids, such as Gatorade, throughout treatments to prevent dehydration.

Q: What diet should I be on during radiation treatments?

A: Eat a high-protein, high-calorie meal with chicken, turkey, lean beef, fish or eggs.

Q: What if I need to miss a day of treatment?

A: Missing a day of treatment is permissible, however, all absences should be cleared with the doctor or radiation therapist first. It is required that radiation treatments be a consecutive series.

Q: Where does the radiation come from?

A: Radiation is generated by the Linear Accelerator machine. The administered radiation is high-energy X-rays, not Gamma rays.

Q: What happens after completion of the radiation treatments?

A: Once all the radiation treatments are completed, you will return for a 2-week follow-up appointment. During a second follow-up, at 3 months, Dr. Tokita will draw a PSA level.

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