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Anyone have pain in pectoral muscles after radiation? What did you do?
I was diagnosed with adocarcinoma in February. Went through one round of chemo treatments, but it showed no improvement. So I did another round with different meds along with radiation. No major side effects with any of this. Now, about 3 months after completing the radiation I’m having a lot of pain and discomfort in my pectoral muscles on the same side that I received the radiation. Especially when I raise my arm and move it backwards. Also I feel like the lymph nodes are swollen, but when I touch, there is no swelling. Anyone experience this and what did your docs say about it? Was it due to the radiation? How long did it last? Thanks for any insights.
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@popsue , That's great news! Are you still experiencing the pectoral are pain?
PET/CT showed tumor reduced in size and less metabolic activity. Was very happy with the results. Now immunotherapy for 1 year.
@colleenyoung I will get the results tomorrow. Hoping for good news.
@popsue, did the CT scan show what the issue is? How are you doing?
@lls8000 👍
@popsue , The scans sound like a good next step. And rest too, in case it is a muscle stress or tear. Keep us posted.
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1 ReactionYes, I saw the oncologist PA last time in a video call. I told her about it and she said it may be musculoskeletal. Advised heat and Tylenol. I also asked the radiation oncologist staff. They said radiation doesn’t cause musculoskeletal issues and advised the same thing. I am having a PET/CT later this month so they may be able to see more of what is causing the pectoral issues. Thanks for responding.
Hi @popsue, Radiation can be hard on any tissue. From what I've read and learned from talking with others (not personal experience), the after-effects can sometimes take months to develop. Your doctor, of course, knows your case the best. You may want to ask them about the possibility of inflammation in the area, or fibrosis which is related to scaring.
Have you been in contact with your doctor about this pain yet? Did they have any suggestions about what may be causing it, or treatment options?