5 days or 15 for Radiotherapy?

I had 5 days whole breast and 5 booster (targeted to lump area) and had no issues with burning etc. My skin was a little redder after radiation, but I think that is normal.

I didn't suffer much from tiredness either as only 10 days of travelling.

They have to follow NICE Guidelines in the UK and also the hospital you attend may have its own protocols. I was asked to choose between 5 days and no booster allowed or 15 with booster. I asked the Radiotherapy Doctor or Consultant what she recommended as I did not know what to choose for the best. Oncologist had told me I would get 10 days. It depends I believe also on your age, the stage of your tumour and how big it was. I just about kept the redness and rash under control - the itchiness was the worst. Masses of moisturiser used. I knew I was prone to rashes though and expected this reaction so was prepared.

Thank you for your reply. That's really usefult to know.

Thanks Venicelagoon. I don't know if I'll get a choice. I'll top up on moisturiser stocks just in case. Many thanks.

I had the 5 day radiotherapy in August, had no issues with tiredness, burning, itching or rash, I moisturised the breast up to three times a day, warm water showers only, also avoiding water hitting directly onto chest. Breast looks slightly tanned now compared to surrounding skin.

Hi

I had 5 days last year.No problems,no tiredness only slight reddening of skin.

Good luck

Hi there

I worked as a radiotherapy radiographer for 35 years and have also just completed 5 treatment breast radiotherapy so I know things from both sides of the fence.

The 5 fraction regime came about as a result of a clinical trial comparing 5 fractions to 15 fractions in early stage breast cancer patients over 5 years.The trial results were published in April 2020 and the 5 treatment regime was equally effective as 15 treatments for early stage cancer.

Things move on in cancer care.....when I started training the standard for breast  radiotherapy was 25 treatments plus an extra 5 to the tumour bed.Fortunately things have changed now as that was a hard slog for the patients.

You will be offered whatever treatment regime your oncologist feels is appropriate for your particular cancer dependant on size,grade and tumour position and if there are nodes involved.

In my case my cancer was picked up on  routine screening and there was no palpable lump.It was a 4mm grade 1 tumour excised with clear margins and no nodes so I was able the have 5 fractions of partial breast radiotherapy for which I am eternally grateful.

I had limited side effects....a slightly heavy feeling in my breast, a slight pinkness to my skin and felt a bit tired.I put the tiredness down to the fact that some of my appointments were 730 pm as the department was so busy....and I’m usually winding down by then!

Its difficult to say what side effects people will experience as it is dependent on lots of factors ie your skin type and size and position of your tumour. the areas under your breast,your axilla and nipple are the most sensitive areas so whichever treatment regime you have follow the advice you are given by your radiographers and breast care nurse.Re moisturiser whilst on treatment.....some hospitals have their favourite recommendations so wait until your planning appt to stock up so you know which ones to get.As a general rules they should be unperfumed and alcohol free.I’ve heard all sorts being recommended on this site but the popular ones seem to be Aveeno and E45.

Six weeks after finishing my treatment  I’m feeling great and have more energy and my skin is back to normal.I’m on letrazole and I’m having acupuncture to combat the hot flushes ( offered by my oncologist at the Royal Marsden)which is really working for me.

I hope these ramblings help

Good luck with the next stage of your treatment 

Thank you for this I’m just about to start my 5 days on Thursday so this is really helpful. 

You are welcome 

Hope all goes well for you 

Thank you for this. Really helpful. I've been offered acupuncture for the sweats. Good to know it can work! Good luck to you too and many thanks.