Infection in breast during radiotherapy

Hey Joanty and Beth I am sending you both really strong healing vibes to beat these yukky things that are happening to you both.

Unfortunately what comes with the good things we need to get rid of cancer are also the bad. I can vouch for that.

I am thinking of you and wishing you well.

Lots of love always, Mich xoxoxoxox

Wow Joanty, you have had it tough!  I have had five outbreaks of cellulitis in my face in the past so really feel your pain.  I hope you come through this okay - radiation is bad enough without such a nasty infection.  I will finish radiation next Thursday and start on my hormone treatment soon after the 9th December.   Don't know which one yet.  I hope you get back to work as planned.  I have been trying to work through radiation but got shingles last week so am having a week off - teach Year 3 and can't go to school until the anitviral drugs are all taken.

Take care of you,

Love

Beth

I had a lumpectomy and sentinal node removal in July this year.  Four weeks into my six weeks of radiotherapy I ended up with Cellulitis - closed infection, which swelled up to the size of a 'sausage roll' as my husband described it.  One week in hospital on IV antibiotics and many more oral antibiotics. Drainage by having a huge needle stuck into my breast every second day so the radiotherapy could continue.  After treatment finished, back into surgery to have the dead cells etc scrapped.  The muscle was very sore and I could not lift my arm above my shoulder.  After dutifully doing my exercises, it is now a lot more flexible, although the infection is still present - four months later.  I rub the area with Bio Oil each day and it eases to redness.  I am not on antibiotics at present, as they were not doing anything for it, and my surgeon wants it to 're-absorb' itself into my body.  He also mentioned that it could take up to another six months before it has fully recovered.  Am now on Arimidex and I am planning on returning to work in January - part time to start and see how things go.

Thanks huny

I am doing fine. Hubby flew in last night and home for a week :-)

Off to radiotherapy oncologist and chemo oncologists for reviews today.  Should all be good.  I am sure my poor radiotherapy oncologist is still reeling from my diagnosis the poor thing. So unlucky for both her and me unfortunately but hey what can you do x%#& happens sometimes.  That is life unfortunately so I just roll with it.

Look after that infection huny.

Lots of love always, Mich xooxoxox

Thanks Mich

Am getting some relief at night by doing as you have suggested.  During the day is tough though as I am working and need to be covered up!

Hope you are travelling well today?

Love

Beth

Hey Beth

I found under the breast was the worst area as it is in such a bad spot to heal properly as it is probably the hottest spot.

Try airing it as much as possible even if you have to lay down so weight from your breast is taken off it. I think airing rather than being covered in clothes and bras etc is good for it.

Only talking from my own experience though sweety.

Lots of love, Mich xoxoxoxoxo

Thanks for getting in touch girls.  My lumpectomy was 3rd September and radiation treatment started on 21st October.  Infection seems to be lingering with build up of lymphatic fluid.  Drainage massage seems to help.  My skin has been red since the first treatment (I am very fair) and has been hot to touch. Less red and angry on the antibiotics but has now broken and peeling under the breast ( I am an E cup).

Here's to a good outcome for all of us,

Love

Beth

Thanks for getting in touch girls.  My lumpectomy was 3rd September and radiation treatment started on 21st October.  Infection seems to be lingering with build up of lymphatic fluid.  Drainage massage seems to help.  My skin has been red since the first treatment (I am very fair) and has been hot to touch. Less red and angry on the antibiotics but has now broken and peeling under the breast ( I am an E cup).

Here's to a good outcome for all of us,

Love

Beth

I  had lumpectomy on 27th Sep & 2 weeks later got infection, 8 days on intravenous antibiotics & 10 days on oral antibiotics... I have'nt started my radiotherapy yet as my infection is still lingering .. I have an appointment with  oncology tomorrow to talk about treatment & options..I know Im not much help to you,but I do feel for you..I hope your infection clears up for you soon..good luck....Christine :) 

Hi Ind88

I didn't have an infection during radiotherapy.  How long since you had your surgery.  What is the radiotherapy oncology dept saying about your infection or why you may have it.  Could it be an infection from the cream used.  Did you use natural aloe vera from a plant in a pot or the garden perhaps?

I had an infection following surgery that required ongoing antibiotics but not during the 35 radiotherapy sessions hun so sorry can't help you anymore except for maybe the above suggestions?

I hope you get some answers soon.

Lots of love, Mich xoxoxoxo