Breath holding for radiotherapy

Hi I am going through radiotherapy and finally tomorrow is my last session. You have to deep breath from your nose and then hold it for 15-20 sec. I was also scared for day 1 but you know we can do it. Best wishes for you...Take care

I’m sure they’ll have many ways to get around it. When I had my radiotherapy I was asked to hold my breath for varying periods of time; I managed them all. But they did say that if I was unable to manage it during the actual treatment, I shouldn’t worry. I don’t think it’s impossible to do the treatment if you’re unable to hold your breath, it just makes it easier if you can. Don’t worry, the team will sort it out! Best of luck! xx

Thanks for reply but I tried several times during planning session but they decided I wasn’t able to do it. However I have first session in 2 weeks so they must have something in mind. Happy to hear you’re finished tomorrow 

Thanks. I’m just concerned for my heart as my father and twin brother both had heart bypasses so I worry about that. I didn’t get a chance to ask questions about it by the time they marked the tattoos. X

I asked what would happen if I couldn't do the breath hold, and was told it just meant a bit more work for them and they could work around it.  Don't worry about it.

Best wishes 

Hi, I had two weeks of radiotherapy in July. I also couldn't do the breathhold during the planning scan and was totally freaked out. But the nurses were great and reassured me they can do it either way. And they did, so I was able to relax and just breathe normal, and my heart is fine. So don't worry, you'll be fine. Wishing you all the best for your treatment, Bianca

Hello October23,  Sorry that you are having trouble with Deep inspiration breath holding but I think if you start practicing you will get the hang of it.  I have sent you this link which should help you.  Here is the link and wishing you success.  
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/16711-deep-inspiration-breath-hold-in-breast-cancer-treatment

You can also watch some videos about how to do it on YouTube.

It really helps protect your heart so just give it your best.  
Take care.

Barbara

I used to be a radiotherapy radiographer so I can help here. The aim of the breath hold technique is to move your chest wall away from your heart and lungs. Some people can’t manage the breath hold in which case the planners alter the orientation of the radiation beams to avoid the heart. There are also lead shields inside the head of the machine which can be used to shape the beam and shield out the areas they don’t want to treat.

Rest assured that you will get the right treatment.As they said to you…..it’s a bit more work for them but easier for you. 

Thank you for replies and helpful information. I find myself overthinking and  panicking more than I used to so any blip seems big. I’m sure the radiographers know what they’re doing and I’m not thenly one who hasn’t been able to do it. I’m nervous but also happy I’m going to have it before Christmas/New Year. The just another 41/2 years of Letrozole  x

It isn’t as easy as it sounds to hold your breath but when I went for planning they were really lovely and said don’t worry if you can’t. I did manage it and had been practising but during the actual treatment I did find it quite tricky as it seemed to be longer than 20/25 seconds, that I had practised at home.I felt as though I was going to explode and it was wonderful when they said “and breathe”. I am sure you will be absolutely fine, it is so natural to think of all sorts of scary situations.  Good luck with your treatment. 

Evajean x