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Radiation Starts Monday - What To Expect?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Lewisburg, PA

I have been given very little education or guidance of what to expect. I am seeking advice with a few concerns: 1) Do I need to purchase a good moisturizer in advance? 2) Will I be able to wear a (training) bra afterwards, or will my skin burn too much? 3) My armpits are still very tight following double mastectomy seven weeks ago. It is uncomfortable to hold my arms above my head for long.

September 12, 2023
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A MyBCTeam Member

Starting radiation therapy for breast cancer can be a significant step in your treatment journey. Here’s what you can expect:

Types of Radiation Therapy
- External Beam Radiation: Typically requires treatment five days per week for one to six weeks. Each session might take between 10 and 30 minutes
- Partial Breast Show Full Answer

Starting radiation therapy for breast cancer can be a significant step in your treatment journey. Here’s what you can expect:

Types of Radiation Therapy
- External Beam Radiation: Typically requires treatment five days per week for one to six weeks. Each session might take between 10 and 30 minutes.
- Partial Breast Irradiation: May be quicker, lasting just one to three weeks, and can be delivered twice a day.
- Brachytherapy: Given once or twice daily for five days, involving radioactive seeds placed in your tissue.
- Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT): Takes place during surgery and is completed before you wake up.

Preparation and Procedure
- Simulation Session: You’ll undergo a planning session to determine the target area, which takes about an hour.
- Daily Treatments: You’ll lie in the same position each time, with radiation delivered to specific areas for 30 seconds to a few minutes.

Side Effects
- Short-Term: May include skin irritation, tiredness, and other mild effects that usually disappear after treatment ends.

Timing
- Start Date: Radiation treatments often start three to eight weeks after surgery or three to four weeks after chemotherapy.

Additional Tips
- Avoid Supplements: Doctors often recommend avoiding supplements containing antioxidants like vitamins A, C, D, and E before treatments.

Always consult your radiation oncologist for personalized advice and to address any specific concerns you may have.

September 6, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

I only had my right breast removed! But I can feel your pain!! Having radiation you have to be able to raise your arms over your head it didn’t hurt for me please do some over your head exercises before treatment it will help a lot! Yes your DOC. Should have told what creams to but? Your better off with no bra until radiation is over unless your a DDD bra size ? Going without a bra has been wonderful for me but I ham only a B cup

September 14, 2023

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