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Saying hello and a question or two or three
Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: Aug 5 7:24pm | Replies (16)Comment receiving replies
Waiting on insurance approval for PET scan hopefully tomorrow. If so chance of scan itself Tuesday or Wednesday (realistic? Nuclear Medicine folks say they’re not too backed up now), in time for consult with radiation oncologist on Friday. That’s the plan, at least. Assuming we go that route, can anyone enlighten me on what happens next? Some sort of prep, I assume? Also, what do you think of me continuing to work, is that a possibility? I think I read that the first two weeks aren’t so bad, then it hits you like a ton of bricks. Fortunately I learned good stuff about the FMLA and using my accrued time off, so I don’t necessarily have to work, but I am curious. Thanks!
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Hi robolobo, For a PET scan, you get to drink this lovely drink of fluid which contains a bit of radioactive material. I understand occasionally the same can be administered via IV but usually it's a cocktail to enjoy. Then you get locked away for about 30 minutes whilst your body absorbs all the glowy particles. Finally the scan which takes about twenty minutes. This is followed by drinking of water at home and sleeping on the couch (away from folks) for the night. Easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy.
Now for the radiation: You first will get a CT or MRI to determine precise locations. Then you get fitted for either a mask which attaches your head to a table or in some cases a small target tattoo is marked on you for targeting. Either way, that's just the preliminary stuff.
Radiation therapy is often five days per week and takes roughly twenty minutes in the vault. There may be some waiting time prior but once you are done, you are heading back home or work unless the Oncologist wishes to chat you up for a moment. The first two or three weeks are generally tolerated quite well by most. You may get what seems like an upset stomach although in reality it is more or less radiation "poisoning", which can be controlled with mild meds if necessary - over the counter meclizine for example.
After this point it can get a bit rough. It very much depends on the patient and the exact treatment. Many folks opt for a feeding tube in the last couple weeks and for several days after you are done with treatments. When you take a roast from the oven, it continues to cook for a while if you get my drift. Best thing is to keep yourself hydrated.
As for work or not, I had one employee that didn't miss a day although I rather he would have taken a few weeks out for office decorum. Another missed two months. I myself worked half-days for a while and was out perhaps an entire month. We are all different.
Keep in mind while you are taking this trip down Radiation Road, we are here for you. You can and you will get through this. It will not be easy. It will not be impossible either. Courage!