I had chemotherapy, 33 rounds of radiotherapy and 13 months of immunotherapy over the last 20 months, which I have now finished and I am now cancer free! Thank goodness. However, since the radiotherapy, I have had a persistent burning rash around my neck and upper chest and I have tried many creams but nothing seems to help or heal it. The burning sensation is really sore, can you recommend anything that I can do, to ease it?
Thank you in advance
Jan
Hi Jan,
Welcome to the online community. My name is Anne, and I am one of the nurses on the Support Line. I’m delighted to read you are cancer free, but sorry to see that you are struggling with side effects from the treatment. Although we can’t recommend specific products, we can certainly signpost you the right people.
I’m not sure when the radiotherapy finished, but it might help to have your Clinical Nurse (CNS) specialist take a look at it. They are experienced in managing side effects from radiotherapy and can advise you on possible ways of managing this. If you’re unsure who your CNS is, you can contact your consultant’s secretary for their contact details.
It may also help to read through this information from Cancer Research UK. If this has gone on for some time, another option would be to ask your GP for a referral to a dermatologist. Again, they can assess the area and advise on possible treatment options. It would also be worthwhile asking then to review your pain. Unfortunately, some people find that even quite some time after radiotherapy, their skin is still more sensitive. I understand this must be challenging for you.
We are in partnership with Boots and they have Macmillan Information Pharmacists who may be able to support you. They are specially trained to advise people who have been affected by cancer. You can find your nearest store here.
Take care for now,
Anne - 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 send us an email.
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