Late term radiation induced health problems

[Jannine]

I had a lumpectomy and radiation therapy 24 years ago.  I spent three days in the hospital recently with atrial fibrillation and wonder how many other women are experiencing late effect problems from their radiation therapy and what are you doing about it?  An electro cardiogram showed calcification and thickening of my heart valve.  In addition, I am having chest  pains of unknown origin.  I am very holistic minded so would like to learn if anyone has been successful using a holisitc approach, supplements, etc.  It's interesting how the long term effects of radiation have never once been discussed with me by any of my doctors.  One area of research showed that radiation therapy causing heart issues needed to be identified prior to dental procedures.  I haven't had much luck finding natural or unnatural solutions.

[Cleveland Clinic]

Dear Jannine,   Late effects of cancer therapies are being brought more to attention as people are living longer after being treated for cancer.   An example of some of the data being gathered and reported was a study reported in the Journal of Clinical Oncology in August of 2006.    

“This study looked at 961 women with early stage breast cancer who received radiation treatment at the same institution between 1977 and 1994.  Of the women, 477 had cancer in their right breast and received radiation to the right breast, and 484 had cancer in their left breast and received radiation to the left breast, according to researchers (Grady, New York Times, 8/15). The women were followed for an average of 12 years, the researchers reported (Harris et al., Journal of Clinical Oncology, 8/14). Women who received radiation to the left breast had a 25% risk of coronary artery disease, compared with a 10% risk in women who received radiation to the right breast, the study finds. In addition, 15% of women who received treatment to their left breast experienced heart attacks, compared with 5% of women who received treatment to their right breast, according to researchers. The researchers said this might be because radiation to the left breast also hits part of the heart and coronary arteries. According to the study, the women's heart problems did not appear until about 10 or more years after the women underwent radiation (New York Times, 8/15). Women who received radiation in the left breast do not have a higher risk of death because of heart-related complications for up to 20 years after treatment, the researchers concluded (Journal of Clinical Oncology, 8/14). “

Improved techniques and equipment in the past several years have made it possible to avoid exposing the heart to as much radiation.  Women who underwent radiation more than five or so years ago should be more aware of their heart health.  Heart healthy lifestyles including exercise, weight control, control of high blood pressure and high lipid levels, and no smoking, are recommendations for controllable risk factors of heart disease.

[MiracleB]

I too am a little concerned about having radiation treatments, especially since it is in my left breast...closer to the heart! I already have angina due to a myocardial bridging, but it is currently stable. Because of this condition I get yearly stress tests done and echo cardiograms done to check for any damage. Thus far I have not had any. My oncologist did state, when asked about side affects;  that there have been instances reported, about 10 years after treatment, which could affect the heart and lungs., but that treatments are getting better.  I am very thankful that treatments have changed in the recent years am simply asking GOD to bless my radiation treatment and prevent any damage. This is my holistic approach. You can call it positive thinking or what ever, but I think it is important to speak to your problems and bless them or rebuke them. There is power in your words! I also like to imagine the color purple cleansing my cells. Don't ask me why, I just felt lead to do it. Cancer is bigger than any of us and we need to call on ALL the experts to help us fight it!. I truly believe GOD is working miracles in this area all over the world and pray he touches your body as he has touched mine. When my lump was removed it did not have ANY cancer in it. Suspicious you say? Yes, according to the doctors, but Miracles are believing in that which can not be seen or explained. Expect it and Accept it, for all things are possible!