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Radiation: What should I expect? What are your tips?

Posted by babs28 @babs28, 4 days ago

Hello all. I found out two weeks ago that radiation has been recommended for treatment of my breast cancer. Based on what I've read on reliable sites (Mayo Clinic, ACS, and Pub Med research) I agree with this decision. I know the radiation oncologist did a deep dive into what little research exists for my BACC (Adenoid cystic carcinoma,) I met with the radiation oncologist and a radiation oncology nurse on Monday and they discussed what to expect regarding treatment and side effects. Next week I have my simulation appointment. I should start treatment about 2 weeks after that. I would like to hear about others' experiences with radiation and about helpful hints to make it through. I have to admit to a good amount of worry about side effects. Thank you!

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texashummingbird | @texashummingbird | 22 hours ago
In reply to @tapgirl "@texashummingbird You're welcome for the suggestion. As I said, it made a HUGE difference to me...." + (show)
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@texashummingbird You're welcome for the suggestion. As I said, it made a HUGE difference to me. IT's all so daunting, I know - I hope the next few weeks will pass uneventfully for you! I wish you the best.

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@tapgirl Thank you! 😊

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myoga | @myoga | 18 hours ago
In reply to @babs28 "@mistymar Tjank you for sharing your experience. As far as the Aquafor: is it sticky? Does..." + (show)
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@mistymar Tjank you for sharing your experience. As far as the Aquafor: is it sticky? Does it absorb into the skin? Not sure I want something tacky sticky my bra to my breast...lol

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@babs28
I had 20 sessions and it was not bad at all. Mine was on the left breast and about one inch beneath the nipple. Aquafor seems so sticky for me, so I used fresh aloe vera from my garden. I cleaned it well and rubbed it with rubbing alcohol to get rid of any bacteria on the leaf, then refrigerated it. I cut a piece of it and brought it with me to rub on my breast right after each session and reapplied several times throughout the day. Clean it off before each treatment so it wouldn’t interfer with radiation. I had no blisters/burn except after the treatment was done. I should have probably continue to at least two weeks after. My skin was tan at the end but the radiologist said I tolerated well. If they give you cream, use it and continue using it to a few weeks later. The apoptosis continues even after the radiation stops. That is something I didn’t know.
I found this link regarding holding breath during radiation. There are comments from a radiologist which is very helpful.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/radiation-complications/
I was expecting some tiredness on week 3 and 4 and it never came. I was able to continue my exercise during treatment. Good luck with your treatment.

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Stuck In the 70's | @jlwilcox | 12 hours ago
In reply to @mir123 "@jlwilcox I'm not qualified to answer if it will harm your heart--have you asked the doctor..." + (show)
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@jlwilcox I'm not qualified to answer if it will harm your heart--have you asked the doctor directly? Someone else on this chat might have personal experience, too, but not me. I believe that in some cases if the position of the lump warrants it there are breath holding techniques that can help. But again, this is outside my experience. I hope you can get a clear answer. I think the reason folks talk about skin issues is that is a common, and treatable, side effect. When is your radiation treatment starting?

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@mir123 I’m not sure. 🤔 I am just gathering information…. It’s in June.

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jckd | @jckd | 6 hours ago

I needed 15 rounds of radiation. For me, the hardest part was the table. The staff at MSK were wonderful though and quick to help me on and off the table. Choose your music, close your eyes, deep breaths. Best wishes.

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texashummingbird | @texashummingbird | 3 hours ago
In reply to @gailmarienewton "Thank you. I am getting 33 regular treatments and 5 more extra strength for my lymph..." + (show)
Profile picture for gailmarienewton @gailmarienewton

Thank you. I am getting 33 regular treatments and 5 more extra strength for my lymph nodes. I am tatooed and ready to go. My biggest tumor was 8.9 cm...there were 6 total tumors. After radiation, I start hormone therapy for 10 years. Let's hope it all works. Smiles.

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@gailmarienewton Praying for you and sending love to all of us going through this journey. Blessings and hugs! 💕

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12cedar | @12cedar | 1 hour ago

I had 19 treatments. Right breast lumpectomy 3:00 o’clock. Had no ill effect during treatments. They are fast. No pain. They gave me Auqa fore and vanishing cream. Has petroleum and greasy. Put on every day and night. Also used some essential oils in unscented lotion. Roman chamomile, lavender, blue tansy, frankincense and Helichrysum.
5 drops each mixed in lotion. Had no skin peeling. 6 months later I still put lotion on. Keep motioning and you should be fine. Good luck You’ve got this.

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