swelling and pain in breast during Radiotherapy

SH1 5 months ago

4 replies
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hi I posted a few weeks ago asking for the forum's tips on prepping for RT which was really helpful.

I've now started just finished day 2/5 today but didn't expect side effects so quickly.. since yesterday (day 1) I had pain and shooting pains in the breast and today overt swelling as well as really painful tenderness in the breast,

I moisturised like crazy before and am doing so and had to resort to taking Burden today but even walking seems to cause pain so a little down about this - as thought actual RT was the 'easier' part of this rollercoaster journey ...

I'm desperate to be as normal as possible, continue my active exercise etc as I know this all helps but the pain and swelling after only 2 days does fill me with some fear...and is getting me down..if it happens so soon what does it mean for later?

so does anyone out there have similar experiences?

how long did it last?

Any Tips for getting through it / reducing symptoms?

Any advice appreciated

thank you

Irishgirl16 5 months ago

Hi, it sounds like you're doing the right things with the moisturiser and exercises but I would encourage you to talk to the R/T team before your next session in case they need to make any adjustments. Best wishes

bobof 25 days ago

Hi SH1

I am now 2/5 and having a similar experience to this. An ache along my scar and shooting pains in breast, underarm and back, plus red and swollen. I have had the weekend ‘off’ but am dreading the next 3 sessions. Have been taking meds to sleep more comfortably.

I wondered if this resolved for you or if you have any advice to share?
Thanks x

SH1 25 days ago in reply to bobof

hi bobof - yes it did resolve so hang in there. occasionally still get the odd tinge and now have tightness and pain around the surgical scan (different story!) but the intial swelling and tingling etc did go down after a couple of weeks (however I had 5 back to back) I also used moisturising cream religiously which helped and took some Brufen to help the acute symptoms. but if it isnt settling, the beast care RT nurses may suggest some other creams eg Flamigel etc I think. so do speak to them

hope it gets better for you soon x

bobof 25 days ago in reply to SH1

Thanks for letting me know and the reassurance and advice. Sorry to hear about your ongoing issues. Sometimes this all feels never ending. Xx

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swelling and pain in breast during Radiotherapy