Radiotherapy

Hi Woowoowoo, compared to chemo radiotherapy was easy. You have a planning session where you lay topless on the bed get measured, have a ct scan and 3 tattoos (one under each arm and one central one between the boobs) however it does seem some hospitals don’t do that bit as they work differently. It takes a little while but not very long. I think mine was done in about 20-25mins. The ct scan is so they can position you in exactly the same place each time and you will also have this quick scan at every session so they know all is ok and you are in the right position as it’s very precise for the radiotherapy. You are given a gown but you don’t need to remove clothes from your lower half just your top half. When you lay on the table you will remove the top half of the gown and lay topless with your arms in arm rests whilst you have the treatment. It only takes a few minutes (lot less than the planning session)and then you cover up get dressed and off you go. I was able to worked throughout my radiotherapy. I felt a bit tired in the afternoons but nothing major. I would moisturise twice a day, once after the treatment and then again before going to bed. I used Aveeno and aloe Vera gel. For showering I used Aveeno shower gel as it was fragrance free. My boob did go red and sore but I had no broken skin. I peeled a little under my arm (a bit like when you burn yourself on a pan and then it peels). It has got a bit firmer and is a bit sore but the after effects peak about 2-3 weeks after you finish. I still moisturise even now and do the exercises I did after my surgery to prevent stiffening. Everyone is different with how radiotherapy affects them (a bit like chemo) I had 15 sessions in all and each had a boost with them. You only have sessions during the week and get the weekend off. The staff are lovely and if you have any problems let them know and they will be happy to help. I had to do breath holding for 20 seconds too as it was my left side. This was to protect the heart. It was easy as I had been practising. If you find it difficult you can do shorter breath holds just let them know. If you have real difficulty they can adjust the machine and use a special plate I think so you don’t have to breath hold. 

Wishing you all the best

Hugs from cuffcake x x x x x

You will have your planning meeting first and this will be similar to the actual radiotherapy sessions. I had the three tiny tattoos at this planning meeting. You have to be in the same position every time so the tattoos help with this. The radiation doesn’t hurt but my arms really ached as you have them above your head in stirrups. Good idea to practice lying on the bed with arms above your head. After the first session I took two paracetamol before each subsequent session to alleviate the discomfort in my arms and shoulders. My breast became slightly pink and warm. I used Aveeno moisturiser. Drink lots of water before and after as it helps with tiredness. My nipple was sure a few weeks after, bit like sunburn. Boob felt slightly sore for a few weeks but nothing I couldn’t cope with. Good luck.

Hi. I'm someone who didn't have the tattoos done. I expected to but I was told at my planning CT they haven't done tattoos for two or three years. I'm at QE hospital in Birmingham. Only just started my radiotherapy and apart from being tired when I get back have been ok. 

Hi  I start my radiotherapy soon,  how was driving,  should I have hospital transport or drive myself 50 mins each way   am a bit confused by the advice  am having 15 sessions

Hi did you drive yourself to sessions

No my hubby drove me. I would have been ok to drive but hate driving in Bath and parking is a nightmare at the hospital. You do get free pass when having cancer treatment but not much help if no space!  Once he just dropped me off as he waited for a space. I would have been a wreck if that had been me. So my advice would be if you are driving yourself do allow plenty of time. You can always go and have a cuppa if you are early. I think with radiotherapy it is more a mental issue as you really don’t feel anything. Fifteen sessions is a lot, I only did five so Ithink you will feel drained with the travelling every day. Maybe drive yourself some days and get family and friends to help out. You will be tired but it will soon be over.

Thank you so much. Lots of info there. Hugs back xxx

Thanks so much. It’s good to hear that people weren’t that tired. I feel tired before it all starts!  X

Thank you. My oncologist said if I was going to be tired it would be the week after, so lots of differing info but I assume it’s just different for everyone x

I think everyone has a different reaction.   I had the 5 day course.   Nothing major immediately after, a few bouts of absolute knackerdness.  I’m 3 months post treatment.  The redness and swelling has now come out big style.  I’ve had it checked and been told it’s normal and should settle with time.  I’ve just started back doing yoga classes and that seems to be helping.  probably helps with lymphatic drainage?