Name a common side effect of radiation therapy.

Skin irritation or burns in the treated area is a well-documented and common side effect of radiation therapy. This occurs because radiation works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, making it effective for killing these cells. However, it can also impact surrounding healthy tissues, particularly skin, leading to reactions like redness, dryness, or even blistering in the areas being treated. This localized skin damage is often a result of the cumulative dose of radiation and can vary based on the specific area being treated, the total dose, and individual patient sensitivity.

Other side effects listed, such as severe headaches, excessive sweating, and digestive issues, are not typically associated with radiation therapy as commonly as skin irritation. Headaches might occur due to other factors related to treatment or disease progression, while excessive sweating and digestive issues may be linked to other aspects of cancer treatment or the cancer itself, rather than the radiation therapy specifically. Therefore, the focus on skin reactions reflects a core understanding of the body's response to radiation exposure.