Anybody had infection while doing radiation treatments?

Wow, that’s a heck of a choice. I did all of the above, I think I would pick the radiation if I was given that choice. Especially since it is 5 treatments. I had 30 total, but I doubt it even resembles what you will be getting. I had mine 20 years ago.
I hope some other folks will chime in with their choices.
Are you concerned about radiation?

I had 20 treatments. Right after each treatment, I apply fresh aloe vera on the treated breast and other areas around it. I reapplied a few times a day and clean it out before each treatment just in case it interfered with the effectiveness of radiation. I would recommend continue in with aloe vera/cream for 2 weeks after the last treatment. You can get aloe vera plant at a nursery. Get the big, mature one. Just make sure you clean it well and if you notice any blister, inform the radiologist right away so you can get prescription cream. I had no blisters until few days after, probably because I stop applying aloe vera too soon. They healed pretty quick. The radiologist who checked my skin at the completion of the radiation said that I tolerated well, but my skin is dry. So if you notice that your skin is dry, use lotion.
If you search this website, you’ll see lots of recommendations on how to prevent radiation burn. I used fresh aloe vera because it worked very effectively for my sun burns.
If you feel tired, ask your doctor to check your blood iron. Radiation can cause iron deficiency. My aunt had it but she recovered well. My understanding is that it rarely happens. I was able to continue my regular exercise during that time.

Take up walking, it helps you stay calm and relaxed. You’ll be fine. Hugs.

Btw, the radiologist who checked my skin after radiation was not the intern from Harvard. I wouldn’t trust him. Good doctors are not necessarily from a famous schools.

My prayers are with you through this difficult time. Hugs.

@foreverfaithful0925, I wanted to check in with you. Have you finished the course of antibiotics? Did they clear the infection? Were you able to continue radiation?

Hi Colleeen,

Thank you for thinking of me!

So, what a whirlwind it is. Last Friday I went to the surgery clinic to rule out abscess (which they did), and they switched my antibiotics to Bactrim. As it turns out, I am allergic to Bactrim and ended up with bloodshot eyes, chills, high fever. Stopped the Bactrim and finished my old antibiotics instead.

The radiology onco said at this point he does not think the last 2 boosts will make a difference, so he was fine if I decide to stop the rads. Which I did.

So last Wednesday I rang the bell! It was surreal. I still have to deal with the radiation burns (area around my armpit is peeling) but it’s not as red as it used to be and much darker now.

Onto road to skin recovery, and praying this will all be behind me. I got the rest of my life to beat this thing.