Starting Radiotherapy

Hi S.J.M welcome to the forum. Ah the dreaded online read it never fails to scare the living daylights out of folk. Well whatever you have read is wrong. You feel nothing during radiotherapy however, it can affect your skin which can become red. But drinking plenty of fluid during treatments will help to keep skin hydrated. I assure you I had 20 sessions of radiotherapy and felt nothing. Xxx

Thank you for replying Gail, yes I probably shouldn't have checked but it's coming up very soon and was starting to freak out a bit, it dawned on me that this isn't over yet   have a lovely evening and thank u again for the reassurance xx

Hello S.J.M.

 I understand it is a lot to take in and these symptoms seem to be possible side effects from radiation.  Like any treatment or drug there can be side effects but try not to focus on that issue.  You will not feel anything during your radiation treatments and that is nice.  I had DCIS in one breast that was low and intermediate and a stage 1 in the other breast so had bilateral whole breast radiation.  16 treatments to both with a boost of 5 extra to the one with DCIS as one of the margins was not over 2mm.  Did fine and really stuck to a strict moisturizing routine and simple cleansing routine with absolutely basic products.  Used Avene products.  I am 2 years post radiation and on anastrazole now for 3 more years.  
Resting as needed, eating and sleeping enough and walking are all necessary.  Drink enough fluids too. 
Hope all goes well and I started moisturizing my breast and chest about a week prior to starting radiation so I would be nice and moisturized.  
Another tip was doing breast massage after 3 weeks post radiation.  Got the ok from radiation oncologist.  Found it kept my breasts feeling more supple.  Did for a year.  I have a video of it if you want to see how it is done.  Easy peasy.

Hugs to you

Hi,

I've had 10 of 15 sessions of radiotherapy and the only side effect is feeling a bit tired at the end of the week - probably as I'm getting up early. As well as making sure you moisturise - I'm using E45 as recommended by a friend who had 6 weeks of radiotherapy - I would also recommend practising taking a deep breath in and holding for 20 seconds, lying flat with your arms over your head. The worst bit for me is staying still for 30 min as I want to twitch or shiver as soon as I know I can't. 

The staff are really friendly and supportive and will put you at ease and answer any questions. 

Wishing you all the best.