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RAI

Bitzy
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  • 44 subscribers
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Hello.

I am due to have RAI in two weeks. I am 71 years old.

I wear Tena Pads as I have a slight incontinence issue; When I cough or laugh I sometimes let go of a small amount of urine.

My question is : After I've had The RAI capsule, if this happens, can I use wet wipes too clean myself or do I need to wash with soap and water. It is a very small amount of urine which will have soaked into the pad, which I will change immediately for a fresh one.

I've looked at wet wipes and found one that is pure water with 1% aloe vera, and another with 1% Grapefruit seed extract. They are suitable for New Born Babies.

I will of course being showering 2/3 times a day with soap and water.

I've been told that RAI clings on to hair conditioner so its good not to use it.

I wondered if the same was true of Aloe Vera and /or Grapefruit seed extract.

My second question is: Am I overthinking here?

Thank you

  • Dear Bitzy,

    Thank you for getting in touch and welcome to our online community, I hope you find it supportive. My name is Jo and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

    Practicing good hygiene and personal care is important during and after many types of cancer treatment. With RAI, a small amount of radiation can remain in your urine, sweat and saliva, extra safety precautions are advised, particularly in the first few days and weeks after the day of treatment.

    This advice can vary from person to person, so we would recommend speaking to your hospital team about any specific advice for yourself. We would recommend talking to them about your occasional incontinence as they will be able to give advice about safe disposal of Tena pads to minimise the risk of exposure of radiation to others and the environment. If you usually use wipes, then it may be OK for you to keep using these after your treatment. There is no evidence or research to suggest that using certain types wipes are not recommend for use by patients who have received RAI, however we would always suggests discussing any concerns and questions you may have about aftercare with your hospital team.

    It is only natural to feel uncertain ahead of starting a new treatment and worry about what to expect. It is understandable that you want things to go as well as possible and you are doing all the right things by asking questions to help you prepare.

    I can see that you are a member of the Thyroid Cancer Forum. Sometimes being able to share experiences with others in similar situation can be invaluable. There may be some information on there that might be helpful.

    I hope this information is helpful but if you have any more questions please don’t hesitate to get back in touch.

    Best wishes,

     

    Jo, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

     

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us. 

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