Preparing for radiotherapy
Hello,
I am 51 years old and not yet menopausal. I have recently had a small (5mm) grade 1 tumor removed, following by sentinel node biopsy where 1 node was taken and was clear.
Tumour was ER+,...
Forum Discussion
Hi Esther, Sorry you have had to travel down this BC road but at least treatment will be slowing down soon. I also had the same BC as you but mine was Grade 2 and size was 2cm. I had radiation in Nov-Dec last year and yes it can be quite daunting before you have it but don’t be too scared as it is not as bad as we think.It dosnt hurt and it is real quick.
You will have an appointment for the mapping session under CT scanning . They mark the area with tiny little marks tattooed on you. The actual radiation sessions i found were more embarrassing than anything else. I really never came to terms with being half naked walking over to a table and laying there for a few minutes every day in front of different strangers every day. But hey! if that what it takes to save our lives then so be it. Make sure you lather up everyday as your skin goes through a lot. If you burn then make sure you tell the nurses as they have some great creams to help.
I suffered from some shortness of breath straight after each session and also from fatigue. Just remember to listen to your body and go with it. If you need to sleep then do it. Tamoxifen started doing its job at about 3 weeks after starting. The hot flushes are just the worst and come on in force. Remember if they are too strong and frequent you can get medication to help ease them. It also caused some joint aching but the flushes are still the worst. Good luck with the rest of your treatment and take care and listen to your body
All the best Cheers Jo xx