Cancer Survivors Network

I have not completed my rads yet (getting close) but I was told that it is possible to experience what you are going through. They wanted me to be prepared. I was also told that I would continue to get tired as the acumulative effect from rads lingers for several weeks once treatment ends. Continue to moisturize!! I can't wait till rads is over so I can use a moisturizer I know will not make me itch. All I can use right now is Aloe which also is suppose to help with the hot feeling. They also sell Aloe with Lidocain in it at Walmart or most any drugstore. ♥ Pammy

Your breast will stay warm for awhile after you finish radiation treatments. That is perfectly normal. You are still "cooking" so to speak. Be sure and keep using any of the creams that your radiation oncologist said you could use on your breast for a few weeks yet. It will help with any healing and keep your skin moist and soft. Your skin will be like a baby's behind in a few weeks. Be sure and get plenty of rest, get to bed early and take naps if possible. Once rads are done, and you don't have to go everyday, you will find your energy coming back quickly.

Kristin ♥

Ok, thank you, both of you. That makes me feel a lot better. I admit that I stay up too late. Hubby goes to bed early and I do with him, but, then I get up and come on here. lol I will try to get to bed early and stay there and get more rest too.

Hugs!

Looks like a lot of questions on here about rads. This thread was a huge help to a lot of us! I hope it helps some of the other newbies! Thanks Noel for starting this.

I make my own moisturizer. Aloe gel, aquaphor,and the lidocream they gave me to put on my port site to numb it. I have 11 more treatments and so far no redness or itchiness. I also use Calendula salve twice a day. It's made here locally by a lady. Its a flower. Buy it at the plant store. It seems to take out the heat instantly. They may make this salve w this flower in it. I never heard of it before rads. The thigs we learn! Katz

I have just finished my rad treatments and sorry to say my skin did not do well.
I ended with some blistering so I talked to my oncologist and he subscriped a cream
for me, it's called Silvadene 1%, it seems to work alot better than the aloe or the
aquafor gel. I takes alot of the hot feeling way. Hope you do well.

Bumping for jujubeez. Hope it helps!

Hugs, Jan

I am glad that it has helped so far. Don't be nervous about Monday Peggy. You will be fine. And, the treatments go so fast. It will take you longer to undress than to get zapped. You don't feel anything when the machine is working. Once you get the first one out of the way and you see what happens, you will feel a lot better. I had several wonderful techs everyday that were so nice and helpful. And, I loved my rads oncologist. I saw him about 3 times a week. I hope you have the same experience.

♥Noel

thank you very much will let you know how im doing god bless you luv peggy

Hi Peggy! Good luck on Monday! I can answer questions too for anyone about rads!

Hugs, Diane ♥

I just finished rads too, so, I can help anyone with questions. And, good luck Peggy!

If any of you are looking for help with rads, please post them here. You will get answers!

I start radiation treatments tomorrow, so, I will probably be posting on here some. Thanks for whatever I have already read on here. I know it will help.

Sue

I posted a welcome to you on another thread. Good luck tomorrow on your first rad treatment. Noel, this is a great idea. I hope it gets used. It seems so many are fearful of radiation treatments, and, there is nothing to be afraid of. Hopefully, this will help ease their minds.

I am scheduled for a lumpectomy next week. My doctor recommends radiation after I am healed. At this point, she also feels hormonal medication x5 years is also indicated. Has anyone continued to work their full work schedule while also undergoing rad treatment. One of our administrators was sceptical about my continuing full time during rads. She suggested I consider deceasing my usual work hours and decrease my caseload. I'd like to play this by ear and see how I do, taking off if I need to. My mother had rads many years ago after her mastectomy. She only missed work for about a week. My work does not include any lifting, standing on my feet for long periods or strenous physical labor however, I must be attentive, alert and able to attend to my clients. What are your experiences?

Hey Kay NYC,

I'm a psychotherapist half way through radiation treatment. I feel fortunate that I'm able to take 3 months off work as some days I'm almost OK but most days feel mentally foggy and extremely tired. I'm a natural born redhead so am paying close attention to my radiation "sunburn." Currently using Xclair and cortisone cream. Only began wearing a cotton bra that snaps in the front about a week ago which is making my clothing choices a little classier :)

My time off work is forcing me to re-evaluate my daily life and take care of myself more than others. A good wake-up call for the driven, overachievers for sure.

Wishing you the best of luck & remember to take just one day at a time.

Deb

(PS: I lost the first post to you but you make get it eventually :)

Dear Goddessred,
I am also a psychotherapist. Do you work with chlldren or adults? I work with both and I also supervise psych interns/ externs.I have a large caseload and may consider decreasing my caseload somewhat if necesary. I do have enough hours in my "bank" if I need to take more time.I have told administration that I will take the two weeks for the lumpectomy and removal of sentinel node. I will play it by ear when it comes to rad tx. I am hoping to stay at work since I know how miserable I get when I have had to remain at home (kidney stones) in the past. I am using using my distress tolerance skills with good results so far.Trying to keep mindful of my needs for sleep,healthy eating and activity.
So glad that you are half-way through your radiation treatment and caring for your sensitive fair skin.I can imagine how good finally being able to wear a bra again must be. I have worn a bra daily since I have been 13 yrs old. I know this will be a challenge when I begin rad tx. It was suggested that I bring a sports bra to return home on the day of surgery. Did you use a post-surgical camisole? I will have to go out and find blouses that button down the front. I have a single button down top. I have always preferred turtlenecks and sweater tops since I am generally endowed and don't feel button down shirts offer me a good fit.
Please keep in touch and keep me posted on your progress.
K

It seems that everyone reacts differently to rads, some burn, some don't, some can work, some just can't. Try to get as much rest as you can at night and if you can, take naps during the day. Keep your creams on! That is key to keeping your skin good. Make sure your rads oncologist or his nurse sees your skin at the least, once a week. Good luck to you!

Sue :)

You will probably have to wait to see how you feel once you start rads. Everyone is different inre to if they can work or not. And, it depends on the job. If you get tired, maybe you could just decrease your hours. I, personally, found that exercising gave me some extra strength and energy. I didn't realize this and thought my rads oncologist was nuts for suggesting it, but, it worked. Good luck to you!

Leeza

Bumping for some of the newbies just starting rads!

this is a good question. I tooo have a job that needs my full mental attention !!! I guess if I need to I can take a week off but I've already taken time off due to the lumpectomy surgery and don't want to take more time off.

Hello Sue and welcome! Post and let us know how your rads are going. We are all here to help you!

♥ Noel

well today is day one im so scared its starts a long 6 weeks i will post everyday and god bless you girls i know i have a place to come to to help me after radiation what happens is that it do you still feel affects i am only five weeks out of surgery how do they know your healed wont radiation stop you from healing if they kill your good cells to ty luv peggy god bless

Hi Peggy. Please don't be scared of rads. There is nothing at all to be afraid of. I think the normal for rads after surgery is between 4 to 6 weeks, unless you have to have chemo first. If you weren't healed, your doctor's wouldn't be starting you in radiation. You have to have faith in your doctor's, that they are doing what is best for you and keeping an eye on you Peggy. You will see today how there is nothing to be afraid of. Good luck!

♠♥ Noel ♠♥

Peggy, I was scared, too, and for quite awhile. I changed hospitals for the radiation, so everything was new and different. Plus, with radiation, you are undressed with technicians you don't know. You are not exactly in a comfortable position.

But, after a few treatments, it felt normal to me, and I was at ease with the techs and treatment. The routine was reassuring. You will come to feel that way, too, though you may doubt me now.

No way would you be starting radiation treatment if your surgeon and radiation oncologist did not believe it is safe for you now. The surgeon has to release you for the treatment, and the rad onc. has to accept you for the treatment. Neither will do that if there is any question about your readiness. So, please don't worry about any delay in healing from the surgery. You're already healed enough to get the radiation. Otherwise, you would not be there.

Hang on, Peggy. The days will pass more quickly than you expect.

How did your first day go Peggy?

Kylez ♥

to day went well start of the long haull i started a post for day 1 radiation god bless and ty for your help god bless luv peggy

Bumping up for a lot of new people starting!

Bumping up for newbies!

Bumping up for rene.

Is it usual to have two x-rays taken prior to each breast radiation treatment? Seems like a lot!!!

Bumping up for new rads!

Just thought with the new bc survivors starting rads, this might be helpful! It was for so many of us!

Hi Diane,
Thank you for offering your experiences. First of all can I just say, that I think it is funny that most of us have some sort of cat as picture? I used to have my kitten.
Anyway, my treatment, which isn't over for 5 weeks more of chemo, I have to admit, has been hell. Just about everything that could hapen, did. Taxotere, which I am doing now, once a week, makes me extremely tired and weak to the bone, so much so, that Wed. will be my first time back in 2 weeks. Dr. said my body needed a recoup. And I just want to get this over with! I started in August of last year...
My rads question is, and to all, if you experienced extreme fatigue thru chemo, does it seem to happen with the radiation too? I am not looking forward to this, need to get on with my life, as we all want to, and am actually considering not doing it if my Dr. syas I have a good chance of being extremely fatigued. He is very honest, and knows each of his patietns so well!
Any advice? Plus, there is the month off betwen chemo and rads that is annoying me too...
Sorry to complain, I never do it outloud, and need to get some frustration out..
Thanks for listening...
Jilly

I will answer you Jilly. Yes, rads will make you very fatigued. Just the going everyday for 5 to 8 weeks would wear anyone out, let alone getting the radiation. So, get lots of rest, take naps if you can and go to bed early. I have never known anyone that said they didn't get very exhausted from rads. Just take good care of yourself. Good luck!

Angie

Radiation tiredness is a different feeling than chemo reaction. You need that time off to recoup a little strength for the last lap. You will get progressively more fatigued as the weeks go by. For me the last two weeks and the week following the end of rad needed all my mental strength. The important thing is that every day brings you closer to finishing this part of your treatment. Focus on that and the day will come when you are done!

You are so right Youcandothis. It is a different tiredness. Hopefully, the time between finishing chemo and starting rads will help you to gain back some strength. Good luck!

Lex

Jilly,

I am coming late to the game here, but rads did not fatigue me. I also started 4 weeks after the end of chemo and I was told that I would start to feel better from the chemo for about 2 weeks into the rads and then start to feel rads fatigue. It never happened. I just kept recovering from chemo. So maybe rads won't hit you as hard as you think. But whatever happens, just remember that rads will end as well and you will recover. Hugs and good luck.

Mimi

Rads made me tired. It took about the 3rd week before it started to hit me. I tried to nap and get lots of rest at night. Hope you are doing well.

HUGS

when radiation started to get fatigued did you go to work as well?

Pushing up for some of the new ones on here starting rads.

Nancy, I had the mold as well. It looks at first like a giant Hefty bag inflated with water. Then it becomes a cast that you are fit into precisely for every treatment. As for lead blankets, no, special lead plates are cut to fit the area of your body to be radiated. Each plate is snapped onto the radiation machine. Only the part of the machine not covered by the lead plate emits radiation.

It is my left side that was treated, so like Pammy, my own heart was at more risk than yours. However, also like Pammy, I am 100% confident in my doctors and my treatments. I have no concern with heart or other organ damage.

had mold done to hon gl god bless luv peggy

I never had the mold. Some do and some of us don't. Please don't worry about the rads hurting you. You don't feel a thing and with the new machines and the new technology now, your organs are protected. The radiation only goes where it is suppose to.

♥Noel

If you want to see the area that will be radiated in relation to the rest of your body, just ask your radiation onc. or a radiation tech. That's all in your file. I was shown all that information when I asked. It's very precise and seeing it on a computer monitor was very reassuring to me. Lynn

I want to wish all of the new and soon to be survivors that are in rads an important piece of advice. The main thing is for you to listen and do what your OWN rads oncologist tells you to do. And, if you are scared, terrified or have lots of questions inre to how the radiation works, to ask your OWN radiation oncologist. They have a file on you which will show you pictures of exactly how and where the radiation will be on you. They can show you on the computers how it works, which will put your mind at ease. My husband stood outside and watched and the rad techs explained to him exactly what was going on while I was in "the room" being zapped. It is fine to ask questions on here and read others advice, but, just remember it might not apply to you and it may not be approved by your OWN rads oncologist. I know I found great advice on here about problems I had and about creams to use. I asked my rads oncologist about what I had been told on here and he approved it. So, this site, these wonderful women helped me so much when I went thru rads. There are different types of rad treatments, different machines, old and new machines and some bc survivors have been out of treatment for a long time and their advice might not apply to today. There is nothing to fear. Rads will kill any stray cancer cells left and that is what you hope and pray for. You might get a burn with rads, some just get a little pink, but, if you do, your rads oncologist will help you and make you more comfortable. You will heal and when you do, your skin will be beautiful. It will be better than before as it is new skin. You will get tired, but, if you go to bed at a decent hour, take a nap if you can, eat right and even exercise some, you will get thru it. Well, I am off my soap box now!

Love, Jeanne ♥

Thanks for making those important and overlooked points, Jeanne. Sometimes, lessons delivered from a soapbox are just what is needed.

DITTO!

Someone on here did write some scary stuff about radiation treatments. But I hope by your posts, most of us newbies to it, will know that they were not right. Thanks

Sue :)

I'm currently doing chemo, and won't be starting rads until probably mid-Novemberish, but there's one aspect of rads I've already started worrying about ('cause it's not like chemo gives me *enough* to worry about or anything :-): The Bra Issue.

I'm a well-endowed woman, and was fortunate enough to be able to have lumpectomies, so my girls are still very much present and accounted for. I don't step outside my door without a bra -- I mean, like E-V-E-R. But will I still be able to wear a bra during rads?

I work in an office, so I can't just wear big baggy sweatshirts for 8 weeks. I would love some input from your experiences?

Many thanks from me and my girls :-)

Traci

I was told by a friend who went through both Chemo and RADs that she wore cotton undershirts at home and cotton bra to work, a "soft type cotton"

You can still wear a bra as long as it is comfortable for you. However, if you get a little pink or burnt towards the end, you won't want to wear one, no matter what. I am also not small and I wore soft camisoles. I wore a bra for a little while, but, my rads oncologist didn't want me to. I accused him of being a boobie man. He did laugh at that! Cotton undershirts work too. You will figure it out and be fine.

Kylez

Traci, I was not big, 34B, and have not worn a bra in months. After surgery, I did buy cotton sports bras based on posts here, but they didn't work for me. Before rads, I wore camisoles under tops. Since, I just wear loose, thin cotton tops with lots of details, ruffles, etc., around the bust area.

Once fall/winter arrives, I will go back to vests, etc. Hoping to get away with never wearing bras. The other day, I unthinkingly made the bed topless. My hubby noticed but didn't comment because it just cracked him up. He was thrilled that I was not so self-conscious. He says I have all the boobs I need and a spare. (I had a mastectomy in November)

Good luck with finding what will work for you. It is trial and error.

I gave up the bra when I started rads. It was recommended by my rads oncologist and he knows best. I wore camisoles, my hubby's tshirts or nothing. I am not small either, but, that didn't make a difference. I just wore baggy tops sometimes. I am proud of my boobies, so, if someone wants to stare, then LOOK. And, when you start in the winter, you can wear sweaters, and all kinds of stuff to hide the fact that you are braless. That would be the perfect time to have rads. Just find what suits you.

Hugs, Diane ♥

I go without a bra outside the house about once every 2 years. Maybe. I finished rads in April and wore a bra for most of it. I got simple cotton bras (WalMart $7 44D)but when I burned I needed to give it up for awhile. But since I was unemployed at the time, I pretty much gave up *clothes* until I healed. As always, talk with _your_ doctor.

Maureen

why cant you wear a bra im day 2 of rads will i burn that bad i have worn a bra the same day as my surgery my surgeon told me to wear as soon as i woke up he said it would not bother and it didnt im a 38 c a bra has never bothered me do we really burn that bad ty would appreciate help ty luv peggy god bless

I didn't burn badly at all. But it's like with a sunburn. You don't want anything rough touching the affected skin. Plus, keeping the area dry is important to prevent infection. Frankly, I LIKE not wearing a bra. My rad onc. nurse gave me a copy of a catalog page with recommended bras I could buy; I just said thanks, but no thanks, and she said good.

To wear or not to wear: that is a question you can ask your rad. onc. I would try not to worry unduly. We all find ways to be comfortable, discreet, and compliant with our doctors' recommendations. You see, cancer does spur you to creativity, sometimes!

Hi Traci! Nice to hear from someone who shares my issue. I am a 40 DDD. I NEVER go outside my bedroom without a bra. This is for looks and for comfort. After my Stereotactic Core Needle Biospy, which diagnosed DCIS in June, my poor girls were uneven and sore from the cutting and subsequent swelling. But my "squish-en-up-tight" sports bras did the trick, although the uni-boob look it creates is ugly and makes my clothes ill-fitting.

Before I had the lumpectomy surgery, I needed two MRI biopsies in that same girl, and the male rad onc said to go without a bra afterward. I called the nurse, however and told her that that was not an option. She said they would give me a post surgical bra that would do the trick. It did not quite fit and certainly did not support the girls or prevent swinging or drooping, both being actions that hurt and allowed a bruise and hematoma to deveop. The hematoma was so large that my rad onc and breast surgeon both whistled, measured it and advised me to wear good support. So I went back to my sports bra.

Prior to my lumpectomy, my small breasted surgeon insisted that I find a sports bra that fastened in the front. If I could have had more time to order one online, I might have found one. The ones I found in the department stores were too small to encase my "robust" twins, but I bought some and wore them out of desperation.

Now, post surgery and rad treatments, the girls are no longer identical twins, but they are close, and I am back to wearing my underwire 40 DDD bras with the same amount of discomfort as before cancer.

My experience was that I had to be my own advocate, since men or small to normal breast sized women do not understand the issues involved with living with heavy, large breasts. Look online for sizes and styles that will work. Order, try them on, return them if they don't suit you, and try again. Sadly, they are few and far between and they are expensive. I wish you luck.

I LOVE that little kitten..so cute and makes me laugh. Thanks for that.

touche'... Jeanne... you rock... and can get on the "soap box" when ever you see fit!

Hugs,

~T

I agree Taleena! WTG Jeanne!

Sue :)

I think it's a given we know to ask our professionals, but I, personally, want imput from those who have travelled the road I am about to take.........because......my MALE ocologist has NOT travelled this road and most who are involved in our treatment have not either......That's why I find this site so incredibly wonderful! Everyone is different, treatments are different, depending on the type of bc, etc. But there is no greater thing than EXPERIENCE! And experience is what all the wonderful women here have. I know for myself at the beginning of this journey, for me, back in April, this site was incredibly helpful....I had a zillion questions about upcoming "things" such as the wire needle localization.....I was terrified of that......listening to those who had it done eased my mind greatly.....as only someone who had it done could......anyway, that is my soap box for the day!
Love and prayers to all you wonderful women
Nancy

This site is great for the experiences and knowledge that bc survivors have been thru inre to tests, surgery, radiation treatments, chemo and just plain living with bc. It is great to come here and have a laugh, meet a new friend, learn something, read about a cream that might help you, understand better what going thru chemo is all about. But, you have to realize that some of the advice on here may not be what is best for you. That is why you should always, ALWAYS check with your own oncologist, rads oncologist, plastic surgeon or whatever doctor is your primary doctor of your treatment before implementing anything you have read inre to your treatment. This is not a given. Some people might read about a cream or something and just go out and buy it, use it and make matters worse because they want some relief and haven't made their doctor aware that they need something. I speak mainly here about rads. The machines are so different and everyone's treatments are different. So, ask questions, read the answers and check with your doctor to see if it is ok for you. Most doctors are very open minded and realize there may be something out there that even they are not aware of. I found that true with my own rads oncologist. Not that he didn't approve it, but, he wasn't aware that it might help the problem I was having. He ok'd it, I got it and it helped. So, just be smart and check with your doctor first.

How tired do you get with radiation? I wanted to continue working!

I myself am/was more drained during and now after rads than during chemo. I worked part-time during chemo, but am sure glad I haven't worked during radiation. I do have to go back on the 14th. Just hoping my energy levels rise. I'm following the advice given by Judy and Mimi and trying to get more exercise.

Keep in mind, though, that I did have chemo, and it's all cumulative. Plus, I got more than the average radiation. Even my surgeon, looking at my chest, remarked, "You got a lot of radiation." (More radiation is exactly what I wanted and needed.)

Most women, I believe, are able to work during radiation. The recommendation I got from a nurse was to schedule rads at the end of my workday, not the beginning.

I am almost done with rads and I personally would not have been able to work. Even if my work was not physically demanding (I work in an Auto body shop) I would have still had a difficult time working. I am incredably physically drained and need to recoup my strength to make it through my next surgery.
I became drained from the moment I was diagnosed, more so after all the appointments and testing, increasing through my surgery and recovery, and totally hit the brick wall during rads. I would have never been able to hold up. My rad Onc said that what I was going through was perfectly normal and he had very few patients that could work all the way through it. Most did out of fear of losing their jobs.
♥ Pammy

I didn't work and am happy that I didn't have to. But, almost everyone else, men and women worked their jobs while taking rads that I talked to. I really admired them. Some of them said their secret was that they took really good care of themselves. They ate right, did some exercising if possible, and went to bed very early so that they would get lots of rest. I think the main key is get to bed early. I know I found myself staying up late and that was the wrong thing to do. When I did go to bed early, I felt so much better the next day.

And, survivors that took chemo first, like someone said, are in a whole different ballgame. They are already wore down from chemo, so rads, for them, is 100 times worse.

If you have to work, try to schedule your treatment at the end of the day. So you can get zapped after work, go home, and if necessary, go to bed.

Hugs, Diane ♥

I had forgotten that the emotional and physical drain began with the diagnosis. It just goes on and on. I suspect Pammy is also correct in that most worked because they had to. Thanks for your post, Pammy. Rads are usually not a breeze for anyone. I stand corrected and glad to be so.

A woman my husband works with, her name is Lynda. she had the same type of cancer I had IDC. she was working throughout her RADS. She had her's on her lunch hour and came back to work. she works as a secretary. He gave me her phone number and told me she wanted to talk to me about her cancer since we had the same kind, and both had lumpectomies. So, she was tired, but still was able to work since it wasn't a strenuous job.

I know it must be hard for bc survivors to work during rads, and, especially chemo, but, it seems a lot on here do and have. I think that is incredible!

Sue :)

You are right Sue, for the women that work and go thru chemo and rads, they are super warriors in my book!

♥ Noel

I soooooooooooooooooo agree. I talk about it with the other women and men in the Cancer Center while getting infusions. Those who have to work thru chemo, (and rads, which I wont have until May) are absolutely incredible people. Makes me feel like such a wimp when I think walking up the driveway on a cold day is too much. Yes, these people, must be commended. I don't knwo how they do it!

I never followed any advice given here as far as meds and lotions without running it by my doctors first. Not because I do not value my friends' advice and experience--they will tell you I do, greatly. But, a male oncologist is still an oncologist, however limited by biology he may be.

Sorry, that i seem to have upset some........

Noone was upset here. The others were just stressing the point to check with your own oncologist, rads oncologist or plastic surgeon before you would take, use, or do anything that is written on this board or that you are just told about. Advice and experience is great, but, you need to always check with your doctor to see if it is good for YOU! They, your doctors, are the experts, whether male or female and you have to trust in them.

♥ Noel

I think my post needs to be reread........I started with saying WE ALL KNOW WE NEED TO CHECK WITH OUR PROFESSIONALS which I always do........But I still believe that no one can understand completely unless they have walked in your shoes......No one who has not gone through this can understand what it's like.....And, that's where their experience comes into play.....

Your post does not need to be reread. Why be so defensive? Everyone just wanted to clarify a few things. Don't take it so personal MAJW. Once again, they and I are just trying to stress that experience is great, but, it does not mean that you should follow it. Stick with your doctor's expertise, male or female. OK?

♥ Noel

I am not being defensive, simply stating MY opinions and My feelings.......I thought this was what this site was for......again, didn't mean to upset anyone.....

Geesh, drop it alreay MAJW.

Again, I thought this site was to express feelings and experiences.....guess I was wrong!

lol

♥ Noel

I agree with all of you, Moopy, Lex, Jeanne, Jackie and the others. I would never use something on my skin without my radiation oncologist saying that it was alright with him. So far, he has me using Biafine and Aquaphor at night. And since I have only had 5, I am doing ok. Thanks!

Sue :)

Great advice Moopy and everyone agrees!

♥ Noel

climb back on the soap box! Your advice was perfect! As you know I was probably the 1% that burned terribly. I wish my Rad Oncologist would have stopped to give my skin a break, like yours did to those couple of women you were treated with. If I would have insisted maybe they would have gave me a few days off toward the end.

I don't ever want to scare anyone, but if you do see yourself getting very burned. Talk to your oncologist and see if they can give you a break to heal a little. Also gauze pads soaked in bottles of saline then applied to the skin until dry feels so soothing, and if you need pain pills take them. I did. My skin did heal extremely fast and is like Jeanne says "smooth as a baby's butt" now.

Take time to rest, and drink LOTS AND LOTS of H20 and fluids.
hugs, Jackie

My rads oncologist told me to expect to be tired. But, he said it will help me if I just try and get more sleep than I did before, which I am. lol I am not tired yet, but, I am napping now during the day. I kind of like that.

Sue :)

I love my naps! lol

Leeza

Is there a number of treatments before you start really feeling it? Or, getting pink or something? My rads oncologist told me that usually, sometimes, it is around the 3rd or 4th week of rads. But, he said it does vary from patient to patient since we are all different and our treatments vary too.

Sue :)

Sue, I don't think there is a set number for everyone. Like your rads onc said, we are all different, just like our treatments. But, I think the "standard" might be around the 15th to the 20th, that you might start feeling a little warm, and, maybe a little pink. Just be sure and use the creams. Biafine is what my rads onc gave me and I never burned. What are you using? And, I laid the Aquaphor on thick at night and my skin looks and feels like a baby's behind, as others have said.

Lex♥

I really noticed the fatigue hit me just as I was starting into my third week (about day 11) and then I started to really tan about the fourth week (about day 20) but really reddened by the fifth week (about day 26). I think one of the reasons I turned so red was because I was allergic to the Aquafore (very unusual) and could only use 100% Pure Aloe. But the stinging only lasted until I put the Aloe on after my shower. It is important to stay moisturized and I was unable to do that. So I look really good for not using anything! And my skin doesn't hurt, just itches. It looks way worse than it feels! ♥ Pammy

I am already using the Biafine and Aquaphor per my radiation oncologist's instructions. He wanted me to start right away. He said most people don't even get the tan anymore with the newer machines. I might just get a little pink, maybe a burn, like a sunburn. But, that it would go away pretty quick after I am done. Still feeling good. Still have my energy!

And, hubby is either taking me out to eat and/or he is giving me a gift everyday. He is so sweet and so supportive. Today, I got a bouquet of daisies, my favorite flower! :)

Sue :)

went for day 4 yesterday and have celulotis dont know if spelled right breast infection oncologist says common i went through major surgery 6 weeks monday never had antibiotic only right before surgery now i after 4 days have to take antibiotic i dont understand i had all my care at hershey medical center but havings rads closer because hershey to far away but drivig there tuesday o see how this could happen anyone famillar with rhis god bless luv peggy

Peggy, I am so sorry about this. You are on antibiotics now, so, you will be fine. Please don't be upset.

Sue :)

Peggy, you are doing great with your rads! Take your antibiotics and you will be over this hurdle in no time.

♥ Noel

Ritzy, You have the sweetest hubby!! Yeah, I heard that about the tan...my center must have an older machine (go figure) because I definitely tanned! ♥ Pammy

Yes, he is wonderful! But, he always has been. I am so emotional now that everything is just intensified a zillion times. So, if he were to just give me a dandelion, I would probably start bawling. lol

Sue :)

This comment has been removed by the Moderator

I just want to throw this out there. I was to have 12 weeks of radiation. After surgery my doctor said, ask your radiologist if they can double the dose and be finished with radiation in 6 weeks instead of 12. The chemo worked very effectively on me, they took out 20 lymphnodes, and removed the tumor, she said all the tissue looked great and cancer free. When I asked to have the radiation reduced and double up on the dose, he looked over my chart and said yes!!!. It would never of crossed my mind to ask, honestly I had no clue they could do that. It saved me six extra weeks of radiation. Of coarse that was for my situation only. Anyway just wanted to share that in case it is available for someone else.

Jeanne,
I know I could not have said it better than how you stated it.

You are absolutely correct in that there many radiation machines - all different. So...one must be careful to compare apples with apples.

Lots of Hugs,
Janelle

I agree too Jeanne. So many don't realize that there are so many different radiation machines and treatments.

♠♣ Susie ♠♣

Same thing happened with my daughter, she was only about 3 or 4 years old, we're getting ready for church, just out of the shower, and I told her to go get dressed, and that her dress was on the bed. She did and I proceeded to put her shoes and socks on, she looked so cute all in ruffles. We left and about half way there, she's sitting in her car seat talking, who knows about what, when suddenly she's asks me if it is alright to go to church with out any underware, I say no why? shes say's because I don't have any on! We laugh and made the next U turn. We still laugh to this day about that!

Anyway regaurding your questions.

Most people have Rad's for 6 weeks, but It can be as long as 8 weeks, I've heard. As far as short time disability goes I plan to use it until at least 2 weeks past rad's. Here in California, breast cancer qualifies thourgh out the whole treatment, because they know you have to miss some work for appts and treatments. You still need a doctor to sign off on it, stating that you are in treatment and can not work your noraml hours or are suffering a wage loss because of it. I had my surgeon sign me off until November 1st, and will probably need an extention til December 1st since I won't be done until mid November. Any one of your doctors can sign off on it. So chose the one that is most understanding of your situation. I am only using it part time, and even if I chose to work full time in between tests and treatments, I will still qualify according to the Disability Office, they understand that while having cancer you are not always on your back but sometimes do suffer wages losses because of it.

I hope that it's the same for you in your state, you do have to have at least 8 days off to get your case open, and that's why I used my surgeon. I'll probably ask the rad dr. to exrend it, and if she won't I'll go back to my surgeon, or onco. I hope that this info helps.

I will do my best Wolfi to answer your questions.

1. There is no set amount of radiation treatments. It can vary from 5 days to 16 weeks. It does seem that most do around 25 to 35. Anymore they do boosters and those are counted in there and are done towards the end of your treatments. They just are focused on the tumor site and not all of your breast tissue and lymph nodes.

2. I don't know about disability. I know that if there are a certain amount of workers at your job, your employer can give you a certain amount of time off with part of your wages. I am not for sure what states that is covered in nor how many employees have to work there. As far as social security disability, I think you have to prove that you will be off work for at least a year due to your medical condition. Your ss office can help you with that, but, I don't think it is very ease to qualify and get.

3. I had a lumpectomy so I can't speak for your skin after a mastectomy and rads. My skin is like what everyone said. It is like baby's skin. It looks great! My scar is barely visible as it was small to start with. I don't think rads had anything to do with it either way.

4. I didn't wear a bra from the start as I was told not to by my rads oncologist if possible. I am not small breasted either but I didn't have a problem without a bra. I often didn't wear a bra. My breasts don't sag or anything, so , going without a bra is fine with me.

You will be tired during rads, but, just get lots of rest. That is the main thing. Don't stay up late and if you can, take naps. You will do fine!

Kylez ♥

If you are attempting to get SS disability, you do need to be off for treatment for at least a year and have a doctor verify it. From what I understand it is very hard to qualify for.

Here in California, it doesn't matter how many p[eople work at a company as long as you worked and made at least $300.00 during the base year, which starts 18 months prior to the date you apply. Then with a doctors certification, you'll qualify.

I'm sure every state has a different State Disability Office with different rules, so you need to check in the state you live in for what's available. I am receiving state disability now, part time. It's like unemployment, I receive a weekly amount based on my prior earnings, and I can even work part time, and they will make up the difference or give me all of my payment. It all depends on how many hours I work. It's really going to help when I start my rads, they'll make up the difference for the hours I lose for the appts.

What state are you in? that will probably make a huge difference.

Good Luck,

Aurora

When I was still working, I had an operation, a cervical laminectomy. Where I worked(a nursing home) I got 3 months off. If it needed to be extended, it would have been without pay. I was paid at least a portion of my salary for 3 months. I felt well enough to drive down for meetings(in services) but not to physically work. Even when I did come back it affected my left shoulder which was my weakend side from the surgery, and I needed cortizone injections. I would think many places have that 90 day SS disability, so if you only take 2 months, being 6 weeks and 2 more for recovery at the end, that should be accepted. Now, like i mentioned in another post, the one secretary where my husband worked went on her lunch break, and she said she was fine, but that's her.

This post might help some of the newbies starting rads.

Lex♥

Since I will be starting mine soon I have been reading all the posts regarding Rads. I have an appointment to meet with my radiation oncologist on Sept 11. I am already familiar with him and the staff as I had brachytherapy there in June. I thank each and every one of you who has posted your experiences and advice. And yes, I will always listen to my doctor!

Today I heard about this procedure. I looked it up and it went to the Mayo Clinic. Has anyone had this done? I know they have it in Minnesota, Arizona, Rush Hospital in Chicago and somewhere here in Florida, but haven't yet found out where. It seems to have several benefits, one being ALOT less radiation and a better chance of no recurrence.
Cathy

There is a Mayo location in Jacksonville, FL. I'm not sure but perhaps this is the FL location you're referring to. It's located off of J Turner Butler Boulevard at San Pablo Road, very close to the beaches.

I will look that up. It dawned on me late last night that these were probably all Mayo Clinic locations (duh) except for Chicago. Definetely worth checking into!
Hugz,
Cathy

Congrats Kaja on finishing rads! That is so great! I am getting really tired now too. I just finished #19. I am glad that all of the bad effects that you had are gone now. Good luck!

Sue :)

I am "generous" in size (in the terms of the radiation onc) & I wore a bra every day during rads (I am a teacher, so I just about had to!) I purchased the "just My size' brand of cotton bras in a larger size--very comfy. The last few weeks I padded the area with white flannel squares, since my incision is on the underside & gets pressure from the bra band.
I just let the flannel hang below the band. THe nurse told me I wouldn't be able to wear a bra, but I did with no trouble. Actually, the bra was more comfortable that going without, since it held "the girls" in place & there was less movement & therefore less pain/irritation.

Good information Tux. Thanks!

♥ Noel

Tux, Congrats on finishing rads. I know that they aren't easy and you did it! That is huge! And, those "justmysize" bras are very comfortable. Thanks for posting this!

I am so glad that you like this thread! Those of us that have just been thru rads were trying to help the newbies out with as much info as we could. But, always do what your own rads oncologist says to do.

I am sorry, but, I really know nothing about the radiation that you are having. All I do know is that my oncologist told me that it is considered to be in the trial stages as there hasn't been enough years of documented proof for long term results. Now, don't let that discourage you or upset you. I am just being honest with you. I hope that you get thru it just fine and have NO side effects. Let us know how you do.

♥ Noel

Sandy, this thread helped me and others too. We can always use others advice that go before us. Good luck to you with your rads.

♠♣ Susie ♠♣

I am considering the same treatment and wonder what that week will be like...
I'm a teacher and it would be a lot easier to take one week off for this instead of driving 20 some miles each day after school.
Also, I never saw an answer to the question about the after effects of radiation on the mastectomy site. Mine is still pretty darn ugly (my surgery was July 6th) and i hate to look in the mirror when I'm nakey.
Thanks for all the advice everyone! I'm actually looking forward to the rads as that will signal an end of this misery. I had my 3rd Taxol today, with 9 more to go. Finished a/c
first, now this seems like breeze compared to that!
God bless all of you out there ! I'm really enjoying reading your stories and replies.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! (i live in FLA and it's actually 3am. Can't sleep. ONe of the side effects of the Taxol?)

Sometimes I have trouble sleeping, too, Mama G--I think it's as much worry/stress as it is any drugs. I haven't started my chemo yet, so *I* sure can't blame Taxol or any other drug. I just wake up with my mind full . . .

Sounds like you're taking the same chemo regimen I've been told I'll probably be taking. The doctors switched the order of my chemo & rads because the accelerated rad is so short that it isn't considered dangerous to postpone the chemo.

Accelerated partial breast irradiation trials began in the early 1990s. One technique, MammoSite, was approved by the FDA for use in 2002, so it has actually been used more than five years now, though it's true that long-term (e.g., 20-year) studies aren't available yet.

You might want to ask your doctor more questions about it. A Consensus Statement from the American Society for Radiation Oncology published this year states that only people who are "candidates for breast-conserving therapy" should be considered for this form of radiation treatment. To me, this statement implies that someone who has had a mastectomy should not be given partial breast irradiation, so I'm a little confused--are you going to be part of a new clinical trial?

I do believe that those of us who are comfortable doing so should participate in clinical trials--it's all the women who've gone before us and been willing to participate in clinical trials that have provided us with the knowledge and variety of improved treatment options we have available today. I'm participating in two, so far.

Mama G, Hang in there! I hope that your next 9 Taxol treatments go as smoothly as possible and that whatever rad you choose leaves you with the best possible long-term outcome!

Hugs! Happy Thanksgiving!

Sandy

I am so glad I found this thread. It has answered many questions I am having about radiation. I of course plan on asking my rads doc any questions I may have, but it is good to get insight and opinions from gals who have been or are going through rads. I admit I am apprehensive about the proceedure. I have had 2 lumpectomies. I am worried about fatigue, burning etc. I can get a sunburn QUICK, so I am wondering how that might factor in to any pinkness or burns I might get. I will have 30 regular treatments and then 3 accellerated treatments. I am 62. Do you think the age factor will effect the fatigue?

Thanks Sandy. I'm the one who was requesting the QUICK rads. Don't know what to do now that I read what you wrote. Maybe it's better to just do the proven tried but true method!
Either way I'm anxious to be down to that! and off the chemo. Seems like an eternity for 9 more weeks.... Thank the Lord it's not too bad though. WE CAN DO THIS!!!! Together!!!

Good luck to you Sandy with rads. There are a lot of us on here that finished them this summer/fall and will help you if we can.

Leeza

Hi Sandy. I had the 5 day, multicatheter interstitial brachytherapy (not the Mammosite device) starting August 30. Four days prior to that I had 45 multicatheters inserted through my breast that had had the lumpectomy. It took 2.5 hours for that procedure but the Mammosite insertion takes far less. Both are surgical procedures and so you will need to be very careful to avoid infection before, during and after you begin the radiation treatments. You should be fine if you do what the nurses tell you, down to the last detail.

Four days after the insertions, I started the treatments, twice a day, at least 6 hours apart. Although whole breast radiation, like these other women are talking about, takes very little time with each session, my treatments required a little radioactive seed to traverse each catheter. That takes a little longer. My sessions were 45 minutes long, but treatment with 45 catheters was a record amount (my surgeon took a huge amount of tissue out) and most women will not have more than 25. The Mammosite device does not have catheters but has a "balloon" into which the radioactive seed is placed for a short time during each session, then it is removed. I watched women with Mammosite devices come and go in 15 minutes! Treatment takes up a lot of your time during these 5 days, but then it's over sooner, right?

After the second treatment on day 4 I hit the "fatigue wall". Out of the blue, I could do nothing more than sleep for the rest of that day. Same feeling hit after the next morning's treatment! It made the removal of the catheters after the final, afternoon treatment on day 5, a great great relief!

Now that I am 2.5 months out from all that, I feel various lumps in that best that come and go, some are tender some are not. I figure, since the rad onc doc was not concerned about it, that these are signs of the tissues healing. That includes, probably, the fat dying and changing, too.

I've read that the resulting fat necrosis makes future mammograms hard to read, so I'm hoping to push for them to be read by someone very experienced, when that time comes. Don't want any more unnecessary biopsies.

But, like you, I too would like to hear from someone who had brachytherapy internal radiation years ago. I'd like to know how things progress for us. Anybody out there who had this newer treatment done a few years ago? Looking for info. Connie

Nope. I just had the "regular radiation treatments". I got along really well and felt very good about having them. My oncologist at my cancer center also felt that there wasn't enough "long term" facts on survival and recurrences with mammosite rads. And, I didn't want to take a chance on going thru that if there wasn't any clear data on if it works. I wanted to be done with bc. You might ask where you got your treatment at Connie for anyone that might be done longer than you.

Debby

Is anyone still having pain in their boob after rads are done for a couple of months? Mine is still sore. My rads oncologist said this can last for up to a year. Has anyone else had this or been told this? Thanks!

I had a mastectomy, so I don't have a boob, but I also had radiation that finished a year ago, and I still have pain. I had my one year check-up on November 23 (NED!), and this is what my radiation onc told me: Scar tissue can continue to form for up to a year after treatment, and this can be a source of pain. The fix is deep tissue massage and physical therapy. Since I do yoga, I am going to try the deep tissue massage first. My onc said it may take 3 or 4 sessions to break up the scar tissue.

Hope this helps.

xoxoxoxo Lynn

Thanks you two. I still have some pain too and I finished a couple of months ago. I thought it was normal.

Debby

I finished my 33 tx of rads the 1st wk of Aug. 2009, I still have pain in my breast, mainly if pressure applied, like the cat stepping over it ,if I bump my breast,etc. I don't know how long the tenderness will last, to have my 1st mammo in April, kind of wondering how painful that might be... I've also developed problem's with my esphogus, to have a upper scope to be done this week, Dr. wonders if there could be scaring from the radiation, anyone have trouble like that B/4?

Recieved result's from my testing, no scaring from rad's. Did have a hiatus hernia,a narrowing/ angulation at the lower esophagus, dialation done, on med's. Glad there was no scaring, these are managable.

Glad there was no scaring. Take care!

Hugs, Leeza

Yes, it's been 2 1/2 months sinces I finished radiation. I still have pain & can't wear a bra. I was not told this was a possibility and it might have helped if I'd been told. Seems like I'm worse than before with pain.

From what I was told ckmcclelland, you can still have side effects from rads for up to a year. If you are worse, you should definitely call your rads oncologist and have him take a look. And, you might also call your PS to see if it could be from your surgery. Let us know what they say. Good luck!

Sue :)

Are you still having pain? I hope you asked your rads oncologist. Let us know what you find out.

Well, Connie, it sounds like you and I are helping clear a new path for those women who will be diagnosed with cancer in years to come. We're not the leaders--those are the women 5 years ahead of us--but we're still in the early group who will help the researchers refine the localized radiation techniques. It's a little scary, isn't it?

It also sounds like you've been through a much more complicated and demanding radiation process than I will have! Wow! I applaud your courage.

There's a newer type of localized treatment that is supposed to be better than either the MammoSite or what you had, but it isn't available in my state. :( I still feel pretty good about my decision to do MammoSite even though a little nervous.

Wishing us all the best of long-term outcomes!

Sandy

Hi Sandy, and all. Sorry this post is so long, but I want to let you-all know about a wonderful alternative to the long radiation regimen most BC patients undergo. However, it is currently only available to women with early stage BC.

It's true that brachytherapy hasn't passed the Stage III clinical trials, but they will be done shortly. The Stage II trials showed a great deal of promise in that the long term recurrance rates for brachytherapy v.s. whole breast irradiation were the SAME. With the Stage III trials leaning that same way, I felt comfortable choosing it.

The other reason I was comfortable with it was because my rad onc is the man who, pretty much, developed the multicatheter system of delivery of internal radiation to the breast over 20 years ago, as a very young doctor. He and his wife (also a rad onc) are leaders in the brachytherapy field, whether it be multicath, Mammosite, SAVI, or Contura. In fact, I came to his offices to speak to a group of surgeons, nurses, and rad oncs from MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston who were attending his 2 day class on brachytherapy. I got to show them how well my 90 puncture holes were healing only 2 weeks post rads! They wanted to know why I chose brachytherapy over whole breast. They wanted to know why I chose multi cath v.s. the single entry devices. And they wanted to know, "Did it hurt?"

That was as close to participating in a clinical trial as I have come. I am vigilant for any for which I might be a candidate, but, honestly, a woman usually has to be at the point of just making treatment decisions, not having undergone any treatment yet, to be a candidate for many of the trials. Because of my large breast size I could not under go whole breast radiation without severe damage. And because of my huge cavity size, I could not have the single entry devices (my lumpectomy cavity was larger than their maximum expansion sizes). Therefore, I could not participate in the Stage III brachytherapy v.s. whole breast trail.

But I encourage those of you who have it available to look into it. Twice a day for 5 days! Even if you don't live in the Phoenix area, please visit this web-site for very educational information regarding all types of brachytherapy: www.arizona-breast-cancer-specialists.com You must use the dashes in the url address.

One last fact. Brachytherapy can deliver the radiation so precisely that it can better protect your heart, lungs, and ribs from unwanted amounts. Who wouldn't want that?

This thread helped me a lot when I was having rads Sandy. Ask anything and you always get an answer. I had the "norm" rads and got along pretty well. Wishing you good luck!

KYLEZ ♥

This is a great discussion thread. I don't have a date to start, but anticipate mid Dec. A lot of my questions/concerns were adressed throughout. My Rad Onc was great w/ his explanations and calming my fears about radiation...that together w/info from those that have walked the walk is so helpful. I'm concerned about fatigue and how I'm going to do my job and I'm also concerned about tenderness. I had a lumpectomy and have had pain over the site (like ultrasensitive to touch of shirt/bra etc) since. I wear a uniform to work, so it may still be possible w/all that bulk to go braless...but even the t-shirts hurt. Concerned that rads will really make it a lot worse.

Thanks to all for your info

God Bless

Julie

Wishing you good luck Sandy. I had the "normal" radiation treatments. Good luck with your type of rads.

Sue :)

Bumping this for some of the newbies starting rads that have questions. This offers a lot of information all at once.

Hugs, Diane ♥

Good luck tomorrow P with rads! You will get tired as rads suck your energy, beside the going everyday for weeks. So, get lots of rest when you can. I even took naps, which helped a lot. And, use your creams from the first day! Good luck to you!

♠♣ Susie ♠♣

This is a great thread for the newbies that will be starting rads. I hope that they can find some help in it. I know I did.

Leeza

Pushing this up for Monica...hope you find the info helpful.

Julie

This is a good post for someone starting rads. It has good info from everyone except one.

Good luck to all of you!

HUGS

I just finished rads a few weeks ago and this post and the follow up to it really helped me. I see there are a lot of newbies with questions. Maybe, this will help with some. I read these before I made myself visible on the site and they did help me.

Megan

I just wanted to thank all you wonderful ladies for posting here and sharing your info and experiences. I'll be having a masectomy in 3 weeks and afterwards rads. At this point I don't know much but I'm keeping this discussion as one of my favorites so I can pull it up when I need it. Thanks again.

Good luck to you Sunrae!

Elaine, you should be fine with hairspray in your hair. The important thing is not to put anything on the area being radiated. To answer you question regarding blood draws, I did not have any blood tests during radiation. I did have my blood drawn the week before I started radiation and all my counts were good. Good luck on your rads, you'll be done before you know it. No pun intended on the "done" part.

Thanks for getting back to me so soon. I really didn't feel like washing my hair all over again!!! =)

Using hairspray is fine. They just don't want any cremes on the radiated area 4 hours prior to your treatment. And, I didn't have any blood tests done during rads either.

Sue :)

Today was my second day of rads and I can't believe how fast it is. I got to the treatment center at 8:00 am and was back in my car by 8:20. Unbelievable! If there's a silver lining to getting rads (besides the obvious), this is it. It's done and over with quickly and so far it doesn't hurt a bit.

Elaine

Yes, it does goes fast. Like everyone said, it takes longer to undress than for the treatment. Be sure and use your cremes, whatever the rads oncologist gave you. Just not 4 hours prior to your treatment.

Megan

Glad it is going well for you Elaine! The treatments are fast and painless. Use your creams everyday, just not 4 hours before your treatment.

Hugs, Leeza

This is a great post for those just starting rads. Answers a lot of questions.

Sue :)

As we say on here Elaine, no question is dumb! You can use hairspray. They just don't want any creams or anything on the radiated part of your body 4 hours before your treatment. Good luck with rads!

Hugs, Diane ♥

I want to add that your radiation oncologist or his nurse should be checking your skin at the least, once a week. If they aren't, be sure and ask them too. And, do NOT apply any creams 4 hours prior to your treatment. And, only use the creams that your rads oncologist approves. Don't use any other cream just because you read on this site that someone used it or recommends it. Everyone's treatment, including the rads machine, are different.

Leeza

Glad to see this post being used again! Lots of great tips and advice. But, always check anything out with your own radiation oncologist first! It is great how much we help each other!

♥ Noel

Glad you are doing so well Bella. You should be done by now? Let us know so we can celebrate with you!

Hugs, Megan

Please start that thread! They gave me a ball that looks like crystal and it doesn't seem to do much!! I miss my "Degree"!!

The only deodorant my rads oncologist said I could use during rads was one that was aluminum free. He recommended Toms of Maine. You can find it any drug store. I didn't need it for the radiated side as the radiation killed my sweat glands, so, I don't sweat there anymore. Good luck!

Angie

Thanks for the bump up on this one! I just started a week ago and lots of stuff I didnt know:)

This post helped a lot Sam! There is a part two somewhere. You could search for it if you need to.

Lex♥

I was told any deodorant that is non aluminum. Most health food stores will carry it or a drug store too.

Not trying to scare or freak anyone out, and this is not a horror story, but felt it was important to let you know that more intense complications can happen.

I have finished 5 weeks or 25 treatments of Rads. From the onset, used Emu Oil recommended by Rad. Onc. I also used my unscented dry-skin lotion in the evenings (ok'd. by Dr.)

Had absolutely no problems other than a managable sunburn effect until after the 4th week. It started on Saturday with itching and tiny little pings of pain. Then a rash broke out in the treatment area that my Rad. Onc. watched closely. It progressively got worse & by Wednesday was put on Silvadene Cream, Emla Cream (lidocaine), and Rx strength Ibuprofen. That Friday nite, the rash developed into many blisters. Started using Aloe Vera to cool it off along with other med. creams, of course, no bra, soft, soft clothing & drinking extra water.

On Mon., Rad. Onc. was very surprised at how quickly it progressed. It looks pretty much like Shingles but he is pretty sure it is not due to the good response to the Medlone 21-Pack Oral (steroids). He has only seen 1 other case even close to this in 20 years of practice and called it Radiation Dermatitis. Have been on steroids for 3 days now, blisters are drying up and is more annoyingly itchy than painful.

Saw Dr. today and will again on Fri. No decision has been made as to the continuation of 4 boost treatments that would have been completed this week. I am very sad about all of this and want to continue but we will see....my friend whose husband just finished treatment said that "I'm done, my body has had enough"...

(My Rad. Onc. is also the Rad. Onc. Medical Director of a relatively large medical center.)

I had radiation dermatitis, and, my radiation oncologist gave me a prescription cream for it. It is called Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream. It cleared it right up within a day or two. That is all that I had to use for it. I had already been using Biafine for the dark pinkness and Aquaphor to keep my skin moist. My rads oncologist said that radiation dermatitis is quite normal, that lots of patients get it. Sorry you have had so much trouble with it. Hope you get cleared up soon.

Love, Jeanne ♥

This post helped me as I read it before I took rads and found a lot of useful info that we aren't told. Thanks for the post and hoping that others get the same benefit.

Megan

I was wondering if anyone else has this. I have been done with rads for a few months now, but, I have noticed that sometimes, the breast that had the rads is warmer than my other one. I see my rads oncologist soon, and will tell him, but, wondered if anyone else has this. Thanks!

I read that breast thermograms will show the radiated breast is MUCH warmer than the other breast for more than a year. (A breast thermogram is a technology that measures the temperature gradients of the breasts with the hypothesis that since cancer forms it's own blood supply, and blood vessels are warmer than surrounding muscle/fat tissue, then thermographic "hot spots" are more likely to be cancerous areas.)
So, yes, it is common to be warmer for quite a while.

I too had problems with a rash/ blister's forming, mine covered pretty much the entire brest area. I was started on silver sulfadiazine burn cream,I also continued my hydro soaks and started on prescribed pain meds. I also pretty much went topless to air out when at home and of course only wore cotton tanks. Thank God I was close to the end of the full breast rad. and they started to concentrate on the incission area to radiate that last week, it was amazing how fast things cleared up, with in 2 wks the over all breast had healed a lot and once tx was done the incission area cleared up also within 2 weeks. Amazing how the body heals when not getting zapped everyday! I know there were other women that had ozzing area's, blistered and had to stop full radition to concentrate on the incission (letting the other area rest and heal some) b/4 going back to finish the full breat radiation. One person had a lumpectomy done in both breast and was having radiation in both also at the same time of course, she had blistered also and developed infection. I'm also not trying to scare anyone, but wish I had taken the time to find this blog and realized some of the more severe side effects that can come along during radiation. I know many people don't experience anything more than a slight sunburn and some fatique, but also be aware that the fatique can last up to a year or more, it does improve but as I was told you may not get your full strenght back completly.

Comforting to know that I am not alone. My skin is healing up but very dry, pink and crinkly. Also had a second and third wave of redness outside (stomach & neck) the initial breakout of blisters that were more of a redness and rash. I think the steroids are keeping it contained. Dr. is still puzzled about it all. Am doing my best to keep it all hydrated both inside and out.

In addition to my earlier post of skin treatments (emu oil, silvadene cream, lidocaine/prolocaine cream, aloe vera, vaseline unscented dry skin lotion, cortisones & benadryl creams):

I added "Body Drench" moisturizer that I used when I was an indoor tanner. It works great for softening and relieving itchiness!

Have 2 more Boost Rads to go and then I'm outta there. Some itching and tingling is going on at the Boost Area but nothing bad yet. When I was considering discontinuing with rads, my dr. reminded me that even if i had an identical acute dermatitis event, as bad as it was, it is nothing when you consider a bc recurrence! I took 1 1/2 week break to heal b4 continuing.

Glad your skin is healing up trooper! You are almost done! We will all celebrate with you when you finish!

Hugs, Megan

It is amazing how fast our skin heals up from rads. I am glad that yours did too CPT. This thread has been good for a lot of us that are going thru rads, just starting and even finished! Good luck!

Angie

I so know what you went through, I to had terrible blistering and Dr. gave me the Sivadene cream as well, healing so much beter than the other creams, calendula,aloe,aquafor, I seem to have turned the corner now just want to get my energy back. I'm suppose to start HRT on Tuesday the 16th, Femara, will wait and see how that effects the body. Thank goodnes for soft cotton shirts!!

Has anyone heard of this or experienced this relatively new treatment? I had a lumpectomy and 2 nodes removed on March 23, 2010 and I may be a candidate for the balloon...they place the balloon where at the tumor site, pump it up to fill the cavity and then introduce the radiation directly there. My onc told me it would reduce my treatment time from 35 treatments to 7...has anyone had this done?

My rads oncologist explained the balloon rads to me, but, we both felt that "regular" rads was what I wanted and the best, even though it took longer. You have breast tissue clear up to your collar bone and I wanted to make sure that rads killed any stray cells that might be in the breast tissue, and, not just at my tumor site. Beside the "regular" rads to my right side, I also had the boosters at the end just to where the tumor was. Good luck to you!

I thought Floridian Sisters and others starting rads could use the info in this thread.

Bumping this up for our new sisters w/questions...gotta find part 2!

Also bumping this up for the newbies.

Great postings for the newbies!

I don't think it makes you fall asleep easier, but, it makes you more tired. I got a sleeping pill from my rads oncologist to help me. good luck

Bumping up for some just starting rads. I think there is part two. I will try and find it too.

Sue :)