Hello, I am new to this group and am looking for thoughts or experiences on left breast radiotherapy?
I have a planning appointment next week and want to feel as prepared as I can be with specific questions around potential side effects?
Thank you in advance.
Have a lovely Sunday
Hi Nevisgirl
I had radiotherapy to my left breast 2 years ago.
When I went to my planning meeting I first met a nurse, who explained what would happen, got me to sign the consent forms and gave me printed information, which also included possible side effects.
I then met a couple of the radiologists and had a CT scan where they took measurements so they knew where they'd be treating. At my hospital they no longer do tattoos as the machine calculates where it needs to aim every time you go.
I also had a practice of holding my breath but was told not to worry if I couldn't do it. However it was much easier than I expected.
I had 10 sessions all together and the only side effect I experienced was a slight rash towards the end of my treatment.
Wishing you all the best
Hi Nevisgirl , I had 3 weeks of left breast radiotherapy 6 years ago. At my oncology appointment at my local hospital when I signed up for it, the oncologist (or probably the nurse) gave me a booklet which listed potential short and long term effects. At the ‘planning’ meeting at Mount Vernon, where I had my rads, they had me practise holding my breath as this apparently helps to move the heart away from the field of radiation. BUT please don’t be anxious about it as others here have not been able for one reason or another to do the breath hold. The radiologists are well used to this and will adjust the equipment accordingly. I think it’s just ‘easier’ if you can do the breath hold. I felt most anxious about it but the breath holds in the actual sessions seemed shorter than in the planning session! At that session I had a CT scan so that they could plan the positioning of the beams. Or something like that! And I had 3 tiny tattoos, one between my breasts and one at either side. I’m not sure if they even do tattoos anymore but anyway I didn’t find it painful and I hardly notice them. I didn’t love having radiotherapy or taking Anastrozole for that matter but was keen to do anything to reduce my risk of recurrence. I’m over 6 years post diagnosis and so far so good. Love and hugs, HFxx
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