Breast Radiation: I feel very tight in rib area, anyone else?

I had radiotherapy in March, so approx 8 months ago. No I didn’t have to hold my breath, just keeping very still. My physio told me she has a lady who developed fibroses 12 years later!!!!.

I always felt it is a crazy thing to do, being radiated! As we all know radiation causes cancer! BUT in my case it seemed to be the only thing that could reduce my locally advanced breast cancer which had spread to the skin. So I guess I have swapped my cancer for fibroses which I think is a good swap! However I still have very high cancer markers in my blood. CA 15-3 680 !! And CA125 53

They see the fibroses on the CT scan. Also I have fatty looking/feeling lumps where the cancer was and they say it is now scar tissue which also draws in skin from surrounding areas. I have a little edema in my upper arm and my movements are a little impeded but it doesn’t stop me from doing anything. Just a little painful.

Grade 1. I didnt question removing lymph nodes- wanted to make sure cancer hadnt spread.

I was in a true beam machine and they told me too take deep breaths and hold my breath many times. This would keep the beams further from my heart and lungs. It was hard to do. Maybe that’s was why I had rib pain from holding deep breaths.It was up to the technicians to tell me to take deeper breaths or let more a air out. I wonder if this will make a difference in end result. The nurse told me I could Develop fibrosis wher my surgery was. Who really knows. Time will tell 🙏 wishing you the best!

I also was on a true beam machine. They ask you to take a deep breath and hold for many times while radiated. This is suppose to help keep the beams away from heat and lungs. Best of luck yo you!

Not so much of a woo hoo now.
4 day after radiation I’m really burning get sore spots and nip seems like it going to explode. Hope I
Made the right decision to do this.
I hope they didn’t hurt my rib. Now I wish they decided to lay me face down on the table. That was up to the setup scan and technician. I’m venting.. sorry. Thanks for being there.

If the sore spots are on your skin, slather on Aquaphor, Vaseline, or Vaseline with Cocoa butter if you can find it. For wearing a bra you can use non-stick gauze between your nipple or any sore spots and clothing. Actually the thicker "creams" I mentioned will basically hold the gauze in place for quite a while. If the sore spots are inside, I think you should contact your medical provider for advice. Probably they will go away, but it might be worth reporting. Ice should help (always advisable to wrap ice or ice packs in a cloth or paper towel). Either way, it wouldn't hurt to ask your doctor or nurse, or one of the radiation techs.

I was told nothing really hot or cold and read never to use Vaseline. But I am using aquafor and hydro cortizonone 1% on really sore spot. They told me the sorest spots are where skin touches skin, I hang a bit and that’s where it is most sore where the crease is, and nipple.. but I will call Monday. They did tell me to expect a lot more after radiation was complete because it’s cumulative. Being on prednisone for over 2 years makes skin more sensitive too. Dr told me I would turn dark brown. They said days 7-9 after would be the worst. Thx again for letting me vent and for your help🤗

Sounds similar with what I experienced. Mine was sore and darken for at least a month. But they did go away and after a year you hardly notice the difference. Venting is good. Don’t worry about it. That’s why we’re here for, venting any worries or concerns, sharing experience, and supporting one another. Hugs.

Try putting non-stick gauze pads or a soft scarf (preferably silk or silky) folded up under your breasts so that your skin doesn't rub on other skin. I used soft tissues, but if your skin is open, that may stick. Aquafor and hydrocortizone sounds good. Good luck!