Radiotherapy

[mgsficher]

Hi, I have undergone surgery and now I will have 28 radiotherapy sessions due to a found carcinoma in situ. I would like to know what are most common side effects for this treatment. Thank you very much.
Grazia

[mgsficher]

Thank you so much for your explanation and wishes.

Kind regards,

Grazia

[zouzi]

Hi,
There are usually no immediate side effects from each radiation treatment given to the breast.
Most patients develop mild fatigue that builds up gradually over the course of therapy.This slowly goes away one to two months following treatment.Most patients develop dull aches or sharp shooting pains in the breast that may last for a few seconds or minutes.The most common side effect needing attention is skin reaction,like reddening, dryness and itching of the skin after a few weeks.
Here are a few tips on how to care for your skin.
Keep the skin clean and dry using warm water and gentle unscented soap
Avoid extreme temperatures while bathing.
Avoid sun exposure (use a sunscreen with at least SPF 30)
Do not shave the treated area with a razor blade (use an electric razor if necessary)
Avoid using perfumes, cosmetics, after-shave or deodorants in the treatment area.
Using only recommended unscented creams or lotions after daily treatment ( ask your oncologist which one is best for you)
Some patients develop a sunburn-like reaction with blistering and peeling of the skin.This usually occurs in the fold under the breast or in the fold between the breast and the arm.Skin reactions usually heal completely within a few weeks of completing radiotherapy.
Hoping that your therapy will go smoothly without much complications.
Wishing you all the best...