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Ending Radiation
OK, I'm having feelings. I have two more radiation sessions left. I swear I'm depressed! Maybe it's fear. Maybe it's just the fatigue peaking. Maybe it's both of those. As nervous as I was about going through radiation treatment thus far it hasn't been that bad. I know symptoms can peak after you stop treatments. I, at least, felt like something was being done to treat the cancer, to decrease the risk of recurrence. I trust my doctors that this is the correct plan of care for me. I looked up some research on my own that echoed what my doctors had recommended. After I'm done with radiation then I will have a follow up MRI of the uninvolved breast that has already been biopsied and is benign. They want to keep an eye on a couple of areas that were seen on the first MRI. And I will have yearly diagnostic mammograms. I just feel like I'll be living in constant fear of my cancer returning. That is not a healthy way to live. The only thing I can actually control is my lifestyle. I need to be much better with that. What feelings have others had about finishing treatment?
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Hello Babs 28,
I finished my radiation treatments on April 14, rang the bell and thought that was it! I would be passed on to my family physician, see her in October, have a 6-month mammogram, with annual mammograms after that, and life would go on. I had such strong support up until I rang that bell. I was not prepared for what followed. The radiation burns got significantly worse, and the accompanying pain was unpleasant to say the least. Then there was the "shedding process". Now I understand why I received an antibiotic cream and a topical corticosteroid. The cold saline compresses that were recommended were okay for a few minutes, but messy. Cold gel packs (with my t-shirt underneath) were in constant rotation over the burn areas and provided the only relief. Needless to say, because I had worked directly with the head of hematology and oncology for a number of years, I am not an "uninformed" patient. I am also a properly trained health coach, so I have made many good decisions about my wellness, which have stood me in good stead. I am also part of an exercise study for cancer patients, so that's also good. I have ramped up my consumption of fruits, vegetables and berries, continue to eat a "clean" diet etc. etc. Maybe all my years working with terminally ill patients have given me the attitude that I will always do the best I can to be the best version of myself and meet whatever challenges life gives me, to just meet it head on. I wish you all the best moving forward.
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4 Reactionshi, babs. I was so happy to finish radiation. Radiation continues to work for several week, but you might see the fatigue lift. Radiation affects the bone marrow and can retard the production of red blood cells, which will soon return to normal. You are behaving very diligently about possible recurrence. Soon that will feel routine.
Your body has been through a harrowing experience. Your mind is just attending to it.
I had a struggle getting any follow up. Every set of images for the first five year was a beggar's job. It's so good that you have doctors that you trust and that they are following you closely. Your fear will settle down now that you've quit torturing your autonomic nervous system. These therapeutic doses of radiation have an inflammatory effect releasing cytokines that contribute to fatigue and anxiety. Bless your struggle.
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2 ReactionsI am finishing by 33rd radiation treatment on Friday. I am really, really burned as I have very fair skin. This was expected. Right now, they are doing a boost....4 more to go. I, too, am very scared that the cancer will return. I do have excellent doctors who have assured me that these burns, fatigue, night sweats, and pain will go away eventually....but, they hurt all the time so it is hard to think ahead. I am scaly, too...this morning, blood all over my cotton shirt...so I went around the house with no shirt for about an hour. I think the hardest part is not doing the activities that I am use to doing, so I do not see my friends. I read to exercise, but it is difficult with the pain. I do eat very healthy and always have. I get your pain and your fear....it is just "a lot" to hold in....but, I try to keep a smile. Hopefully, we will be "good" soon. God Bless.....
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5 Reactions@babs28 treatments in that big, cold room are not exactly uplifting. I hated the position (i saw more comfortable prone positions online but my hospital did the old lift your arms and twist), the breathing, etc. Feel proud that it’s finished! You did it. Be sure to continue your creams for at least two weeks, especially the aloe gel. My chest itched after the treatments and the dr gave me a steroid cream.
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3 ReactionsInterestingly enough l wasn't uncomfortable supine with me arms over my head. I didn't like holding my breath though. I saw the oncology nurse today and she said to keep using lotion for 6 weeks. Tomorrow is my last appointment. I've picked uplifting music to listen to. DMB: Every Day.
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1 Reaction@gailmarienewton I have skin redness and some itching. Just started using hydrocortisone, which helps decrease the itching. I know my symptoms have yet to peak. I have been doing shoulder/chest stretches 3-4 times a week to keep mobile. I'm tired of feeling tired and I know that will probably get worse before it gets better. I try to stay active but sometimes I just need a nap. I'm sorry you're having such a hard time. My best wishes for your recovery.