Hydrogel dressings for burns

BridgetO

Near the end of my radiation I had some blistering and peeling and had to take some days off to let it heal.I was using Domeboro followed by Aquaphor, but everything, including non-stick gauze (Telfa) stuck to the raw spots and cause bleeding and more pain when I took it off. My oncologist's nurse suggested hydrogel dressings and they were wonderful! You can get little ones at any pharmacy as Second Skin burn dressings.(you can use them like patchwork and cover with non-stick gauze). Bigger hydrogel pads are harder to find- My HMO's pharmacy had 4x4. You may need to get them from a medical supply store. They are EXPENSIVE, but well worth it- no sticking, reduced pain.

I had a few discouraging days--had to take Vicodin to be able to sleep, but my burns healed up well, I finished my treatment, and I feel good now.

So if you are having skin problems, take heart, it does get better.

Ulightup

Finished my last whole breast rad today but have 5 boosts to go. Skin became raw irritated, peeling and painful over weekend. Started hydrogel today and it does soothe the pain. I hope it also heals my skin soon.

Gingerbrew

If my understanding is correct, your body will heal your skin as it begins to make healthy skin cells once again. Anything that offers comfort is good but it is not what causes healing.  Somehwere on here there is a great explanation by a radio;ogist abput the mechanism of damaged skin during rads. It isnt burns, it is missing new cells.    I hope someone will find the explanation for you.   Good luck.

Ginger 

Belinda977

Hydrogel is great!  I am using it to protect my newly closed incision after lumpectomy complications.  I have not thought of using it the whole breast (if I end up with burns).  Good to know.