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Radiation: What should I expect? What are your tips?
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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I'm hoping you will do well. Fear of the uncertain is normal. But believe me a quick panic on your first day is natural. Weird to say that on my 30th and last day I was sad it was over. Make friends with your team. I loved them all for their caring and easygoing nature. They never thought a question was too silly and always made me feel comfortable and ready. Radiation is quick! Worst and longest part getting dressed and undressed. ( and the 40 minute ride each way in a snowy Connecticut winter!) I finally just wore a cotton tank top under my sweater. I put the cream on right there in the dressing room. My skin did suffer some, a small price to pay for being on the other side of the cancer. All looks good 3 months later. I know more breast density changes will come, but for now the worst is soooo far behind me. Wishing you luck and love.
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4 Reactions@jckd, welcome. How long ago was radiation for you? How are you doing now?
I had radiation 5 days a week for 5 weeks, before it started, they put a clear cover on the area that stayed on for the whole time, I didn't any issues at all.
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2 Reactions@colleenyoung I needed 15 rounds. 3 weeks. 5 days/week. Knock wood. Doing ok. Ty for asking. You? How are you?
@jlwilcox hi I had radiation on rt breast and was very very concerned abt heart /lung damage during radiation - pls be your own advocate every step of the way speak up up about your concerns especially heart - speak to the head person tell them you do not want heart lung issues to do whatever they can to avoid - I had an excellent outcome with excellent caring team! Good Good Luck on all.
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3 ReactionsI had 5 rounds of hypo-fractionated radiation--meaning larger doses over shorter time period. Afterwards, skin on and around treated breast was thick and rough. I don't care for creams, lotions etc. so I did nothing about it. Luckily, approx. 6 months later, all the thickened, rough skin peeled off and now my skin is as before.
No idea if my skin experience is typical. The table is very hard, but MSK provided a thin, pink flower shaped pad (sorry, can't remember the name) to put between my sensitive spine and the table. It helped.
Radiation is nerve-wracking but doesn't hurt at all.