Post-radiation lung concerns

Posted by 2024chs @2024chs, May 20 10:02am

In August 2024, I completed bilateral radiation after a DCIS (left breast) and IDC (right breast) diagnosis and lumpectomies. I had 30 sessions on the right side and 27 on the left. About six weeks ago, I began to feel a sense of heaviness in my chest. Three weeks ago, I went to the ER because the heaviness escalated to tightness and extreme dizziness, and I was worried about a blood clot from the Tamoxifen. A chest x-ray ruled out a clot. I was then diagnosed with right middle lobe pneumonia, although I had no symptoms, and my WBC was actually on the low side. After completing antibiotics, I still have chest heaviness and occasional pain. Is it possible that I never had pneumonia and I am experiencing some kind of radiation side effect? I did not have clean margins on the right side, so I always have a little fear that I could have a local recurrence elsewhere. I have a call out to my radiation oncologist but in the meantime I was curious if others have encountered a similar situation.

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briarrose | @briarrose | May 21 6:17am

It’s possible the radiation had an impact on your lungs & perhaps misdiagnosed.
A suggestion - I would seek out a pulmonologist for another opinion. And with your ongoing symptoms I would do this asap. Post radiation lung issues are not uncommon. The sooner you get a handle on this issue, the better. All the best to you.

beyourownadvocate | @beyourownadvocate | May 22 8:04am

I agree. My cancer was found up against my chest wall so that’s where the radiation was directed. One wonders if there was any damage done when a persistent cough or lung problems occur.

gerry26 | @gerry26 | May 22 8:51pm

Get a CT scan after radiation. I had a cough (GERD) going into radiation. It worsened during radiation, x-ray showed nothing. Referred to pulmonologist for CT, found cloudy area in lung under the breast area. Broncoscopy to clear, but ultimately had lung scarring and previously undiagnosed bronchiectasis. Not a good combination and no cure.