Late effects radiotherapy
Hi everyone,
I was just wondering if anyone else had a similar experience.
I finished two weeks of radiotherapy the end of July this year.
I had mild side effects, like itchy skin, redness, breast feeling hot. They disappeared about five weeks after. But for the last six weeks or so, it has come back stronger than before. I am still moisturizing twice daily and doing my exercises. But my breast has become slightly bigger than the other one, is painful, itchy red and sometimes feels warm. I was referred back to the breast clinic but was told it's from the radiotherapy and to take paracetamol. I honestly felt fobbed off by the doctor (not my breast surgeon).
Has anyone advice on what product to use? I am using Aveeno at the moment. Has anyone experienced something similar? Its really getting to me now, and I don't sleep well, due to the pain.
Thanks for any advice
Comments
Hi lotusflower,
Thanks for your reply. I do feel better knowing someone else has had a similar experience. I think I just needed a bit of reassurance from the doctor. I got myself some aloe vera gel today, it helps a lot with the itchiness.
Well, I hope eventually it'll calm down.
Thanks again for your reply and happy and healthy new year to you too
Hi Libra1975,
I finished radio early Sept. My skin held up really well throughout it, I could barely see where the radio was given. but in the last two weeks my skin is red, purple, sore and what looks like a rash or skin damage is spreading down my ribs. Doctor said to take an anti inflammatory. It seems to have eased the pain but I’m going for a check up with surgeon for peace of mind. I am torn between assuming I am overreacting but also knowing it’s important to keep an eye on things. I’m so relieved to have surgery chemo and radio behind me but the fear of recurrence is almost crippling. I hope you get some relief and reassurance soon. Wishing you good health for many years to come x
Hi mariem, yes its tough isn't it? You think you got through the surgery, chemo and radiotherapy OK. Surely things will only get better now. I suppose our bodies have been through a lot and it takes time. I am not the most patient person anyway. I hope you will feel better soon too. I have been using aloe vera gel, that helped with redness and itchiness. Pain is still there, but I think I just have to find the right exercises.
I wish you all the best for your recovery, all the best
Hi Libra1975, I had radiotherapy last May and am still quite tender, I was told by Oncologist & Breast care that this was normal. I remember one of the radiotherapy nurses saying that it is the gift that keeps on giving as it apparently continues working long after the treatment has stopped! I do think you shouldn’t feel fobbed off, if you’re not happy then get it checked out again, mine didn’t get red again or larger but everyone will be different. I tried Aveeno first but quickly changed to E45 Moisturising Lotion and found it much much better. Make sure to get the lotion as it goes on easier, I use it as a body lotion now it is so good.. it can be hard to get so get the large pump one if you see it or order online at Boots. Hope you get some peace of mind and relief from the discomfort & have a healthy and happy New Year x