1. < Breast Cancer
Profile picture for babs28

Radiation

Posted by babs28 @babs28, 3 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!

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group.

Profile picture for texashummingbird
texashummingbird | @texashummingbird | 8 hours ago
In reply to @tapgirl "@texashummingbird You're welcome for the suggestion. As I said, it made a HUGE difference to me...." + (show)
Profile picture for tapgirl @tapgirl

@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.

Jump to this post

@tapgirl Thank you! 😊

REPLY
Profile picture for myoga
myoga | @myoga | 4 hours ago
In reply to @babs28 "@mistymar Tjank you for sharing your experience. As far as the Aquafor: is it sticky? Does..." + (show)
Profile picture for babs28 @babs28

@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

Jump to this post

@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.

REPLY
View MoreView Less
Please sign in or register to post a reply.