Radiation for stage 4 - skin and fasting concerns

AnaMaria34

Hi all,

I'm scheduled to start radiation next week for my chest and arm. The doctor is specifically targeting the surface of the skin (as I have a skin metastasis) and he said it will also affect my lung (as it needs to reach behind my implant). I just really don't know what I'm in for. He said my skin would look worse than other radiation patients... Now I'm realizing that may mean it will feel worse too. He didn't talk to me about side effects other than potentially feeling tired. Is there significant risk to my lung? Heart? Implant? Will my skin ever be healthy again? I could talk to my doctor again but I'm so tired of getting half answers from every medical professional. And I wonder if I even have a choice. He said taking care of the skin leision is imperative because of it becomes an open sore, I'm in for a world of hurt. But will burning it with radiation also cause an open sore? I read a really scary experience on this site about the skin and they weren't even specifically targeting her skin like they will be mine.

If I don't radiated my arm bone it will eventually break.

I usually do lots of research before deciding on treatments but I jumped pretty quickly on this wagon because I feel I am running out of options and researching often leaves me scared, angry, and confused.

Also, on the vein of researching, I do know that fasting during radiation is effective. I'd like to try it. I am currently underweight though. Any suggestions on effective fasting protocols for underweight people? I don't think any of my doctors would be on board with it. But if I can do it safely, I can always work on putting any lost weight back on after my radiation treatment.

If you read this post to the end, thank you!!! Any considerations welcomed.