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hotchilli's avatar
hotchilli
Member
11 years ago

Radiation - 4 or 6 weeks?

Hi there, was just wondering if anyone out there had radiation over 4 weeks instead of 6 weeks and how they went with it. Would you do it again or take the 6 week/lower dose option? I have been given this option as I have a snow trip with my family booked and I am in two minds about it. Not too sure about a higher dose over a shorter time period. Would really appreciate anyone thoughts on this. Thanks x

6 Replies

  • Hi

    I had 15 doses over 3 weeks - a higher dose. radiotherapy was much easier than chemo with less disruption to my life. I continued to work full time through it. do the creams that they recommend to try and prevent skin problems. I nearly had split skin towards the end but it did not open. I was tired from chemo. so still a bit tired but rewarded with a restful holiday in bali 3 weeks after I finished radio.

    good luck!!!

    Marg xx

  • Radiotherapy is such a mystery bag. I found patient information information quite brief and felt like I was winging it most of the time. I had 25 treatments over 6 weeks and I was very burnt. Don't think I could have done anything other than walking after week three. I advise you to ask lots of questions before making any decision. We each respond differently and that is the problem. Do take care of yourself.

     

  • Thank you for taking the time to respond... just another quick question, did you have more redness/burning/broken skin etc.. during the 6 weeks or 4 weeks? I am just worried about the stronger radiation and its effects. 4 weeks sounds better to me time wise too, not as long going to hospital everyday!
  • I will be just sitting by the fire.... kids and hubby will ski and I will just be taking a well earned break. I wonder if maybe I could just stop for the 5 days that I go for?? Is it wise to break up the treatment unless you have to?
  • hi i have had both 6 weeks and 4 weeks found the 4 weeks much better no problems, all the best which ever way you go

  • Interesting option. I think I would have done the 6 week option as I was well rested and healed from surgery and then was able to keep life mainly going with the daily 5 days per week regime. At one point they thought they might have to stop for a break as my skin split, and another time I had 5 days off as machine broke so sometimes the best laid plans don't go according to plans .  I felt like I had spent the day skiing during week 4-6 and was pleased I had two weeks off most of work and for me I couldn't have managed a snow trip unless it meant sitting by fireplace!  There is a range of experiences of course: this is just mine.   Best wishes