November 2011 Rads

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  • LuvRVing
    LuvRVing Member Posts: 4,516
    edited November 2011

    Just got home a little while ago from my simulation...the real deal starts tomorrow.  I will be going at 7 p.m. each night.  That will cause less interference with DH's work and there will be less traffic to deal with.  It does pretty much wipe out any social or family activities in the evening.  I may check to see what's available earlier on Friday afternoons when someone other than DH can take me.  The long-range forecast looks good so there will be no weather issues in the near-term.

    So after asking about using a marker instead of tattoos, they gave me 6 tattoos last week.  Today they couldn't locate them or could just barely see them, so they did what I asked for in the first place - marker with tape.  It's not good enough...until it is!

    I was told I could use regular antiperspirant so long as it was at least six hours before treatment.  Since I am going in the evening, it won't be a problem.  They suggested fragrance-free body wash, but said it's for when the skin is irritated.  It won't be a problem for at least a couple of weeks.  In the meantime, I'm using everything I normally use (I'm a long-time user of "Beautiful" body wash).  I started using Moisturel on the treatment area and will hope that it keeps the skin moist and comfortable. 

    Good luck to everyone...hope you are all managing with minimal SEs.

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  • Chrys23
    Chrys23 Member Posts: 291
    edited November 2011

    MrsMott - I'm thinking of you!

    I'm having other issues myself; overactive bladder w/frequent urination. I'm getting checked for diabetes, kidney issues and seeing a urogynecologist to check everything out. I am scared that it's something else -- it's hard not to worry.  :(

    For skin issues -- I've been using Aquafor (which my center recommends) and Keri Sensitive Skin Lotion, both of which my center has provided. I'm at treatment #19 today and I have no skin issues whatsoever, just skin darkening.  I especially make sure my nipple is bathed in Aquafor as it is sensitive right now and I did have some inside burning pain over the weekend. I was given mixed Lidocaine and Aquafor which helps too!

    Keep hydrating that breast :)

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  • Joan811
    Joan811 Member Posts: 2,672
    edited November 2011
    kdajay, I know what you mean about feeling like I'm aging - am taking Arimidex which gives me random aches and joint pain.  I stopped steroids which was temporary for my allergies; and then the aches and join pain came right back.  When I got off the rads table first day, I felt my lower back hurting a lot.  And my shoulder from reaching....
    Nat, My first day went pretty well...pretty fast.  They were very happy with my alignment.  I do not have the exposed breast or belly since I am lying down on a padded board with a space for the breast.  All treatment occurs under the board and I just lie there.  I have had the same techs every day so far...with occasional sub.  They are so friendly and always give me encouragement since my setup has been going well.  3rd treatment tomorrow - no SEs yet.  Nat, I don't know what I'd do if I forgot my iPod - but I have my music on my phone too. I have to keep my mind occupied so I put music in one ear, leave the other ear free to hear the techs, and then I make up word puzzles in my mind the whole time so I don't think about moving or breathing deeply. After set up, it takes only about ten minutes.
    Nat - I was told by the nutritionist that even during rads anti-oxidants are not indicated because they "fortify" the cells that rads is targeting to destroy. This is something I think you should discuss with your RO.  I have had conflicting information from the NP and RO in the same office.
    Chrys23, are you at a big med center in NJ? Those are good hours for women who work. My center is 8 to 4 (last appt. 3:30). It's a good thing my job is flexible. I have a long drive as well, and it is stressful.
    About being cold - I really like the coolness in the tx room... -- I feel like I can breathe better in a cool room with moving air. I'm one of the few who doesn't complain about the cold. 
    Gentle hugs for those who are hurting...and positive thoughts for getting through the week!
    Joan
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  • MrsMot
    MrsMot Member Posts: 90
    edited November 2011

    I had my first treatment today.  I was kinda freaked when I hear the machine but cannot see anything hit my body.  But my mind just wondered and it was over before I knew it.  One down...32 to go.  

    LuvRVing - Good luck tomorrow!  Thank you Chrys23 - hang in there.  I will be thinking of you too and that its not serious.  

    {{Hugs}}

      

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  • nans
    nans Member Posts: 45
    edited November 2011

    I decided to stop at the mall today to do some Christmas shopping.  While I wandered through the mall I came to a See's candy and couldn't stop myself from sampling one or two.  :)  I've decided that their milk chocolate caramels are a great pick me up after my appointments. I'm going to alternate it with Starbucks Chia lattes.  It got me to wondering what everyone else does to when you're feeling blue.  It might be fun to share.

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  • kdajay
    kdajay Member Posts: 90
    edited November 2011

    MrsMot - I found that counting down on my treatments helped me get through them because thirty just seemed too many to tolerate. Eight more to go for me as of today!

    Nans - When I get blue, I cry a little, allow myself a mini "pity party" and then look at how far I have already come and go on. After all, what other choice is there? I also blog and if anyone is interested in my journey you can look for it at jayd53.blogspot.com

    Luvrving - Love the picture! I am surprised they told you that you could continue your antiperspirant. I have not been using one (started out using a 'natural' one - Tom's and/or Arm and Hammer) and my armpit is a mess. I have burned pretty bad in other places too. My suggestion to you is to begin moisturizing now. I hope you don't burn at all...in fact, I hope no one has burns because they can be painful.

     All - I am happy to report that the burn gel sheet I have been using has calmed the burning and skin tightness under my arm. (this is the only place I have used it so far). I can recommend them to anyone who is having burn issues as it is really the only thing that has helped the skin heal.

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  • Chrys23
    Chrys23 Member Posts: 291
    edited November 2011

    Joan811 -- I actually live in NJ, but travel to University of PA hospitals "Abramson Cancer Center" for treatment. So, the center is huge -- the radiology area for treatment has it's own clinic. I don't know if that is the norm with other centers. If you feel sick, or your breast is really hurting, you can be seen by a nurse or dr at anytime. They even have social workers and a psychiatrist specifically for cancer patients only.  Even though the drive is taxing; the benefits to me are worth it (ask me that when I'm exhausted!) LOL

    Today was treatment #20 for me and I have 10more to go. Lord help me!

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  • ptdreamers
    ptdreamers Member Posts: 1,080
    edited November 2011

    Nans, I bought some organic choclate(dark of course) and break off a piece to treat myself. Also, I must confess that after I read in one of the other forums a study that said a glass of red wine during radiation treatments was beneficial I bought into the idea and have an occasional glass. I am trying to go organic and chemical free as much as possible but I refuse to give up everything in hopes I'll eke out lots of extra time. Quality is as important as quantity IMHO.

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  • ptdreamers
    ptdreamers Member Posts: 1,080
    edited November 2011

    Nans, I bought some organic choclate(dark of course) and break off a piece to treat myself. Also, I must confess that after I read in one of the other forums a study that said a glass of red wine during radiation treatments was beneficial I bought into the idea and have an occasional glass. I am trying to go organic and chemical free as much as possible but I refuse to give up everything in hopes I'll eke out lots of extra time. Quality is as important as quantity IMHO.

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  • LuvRVing
    LuvRVing Member Posts: 4,516
    edited November 2011

    Kdayjay - there is clinical evidence documented by the American Society for Radiation Oncology that using an antiperspirant during radiation causes no problems:

    http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/radiation/new_research/20101101.jsp

    http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/ASTRO/23077

    Like a lot of things in medical care, old habits die hard.  It's the reason nurses tell you "nothing to eat or drink after midnight" when you are having a surgical procedure.  The reality is that there is a much shorter window that is perfectly acceptable.  It takes more than a decade for most changes in clinical care to work their way up the system. 

    As for moisturizing, I've been using Moisturel Cream on my scar lines and the radiated area for weeks now.  And, they are not radiating my armpit, so hopefully I'll escape any problems in that area.

    Chrys23 - I'll be making a daunting trip every day, too. You're almost finished, hang in there!

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  • MrsMot
    MrsMot Member Posts: 90
    edited November 2011

    Nans - See's are the best!  If it made you feel better then do it.  I find Snickers mini help...only problem is I can't eat just one.  I was bad and bought a bag the other day. My husband always helps me with some Haagen Daaz.  That always takes the blues away!  Smile  But I like to blame chemo on my weight gain! Laughing

    Kdayjay - Yay 8 left!  Not that many...you are almost done!

    Ptdreamers - I was able to drink while on chemo, only after my taste buds came back.  I too enjoy a glass here and there.  Will be enjoying a glass this weekend!  

    Happy Weds everyone!

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  • Joan811
    Joan811 Member Posts: 2,672
    edited November 2011
    Chrys23 - you are making progress.  I have a long drive but I made it in 40 minutes this morning even during early rush hour.  Not bad.  And it's only about 15 back to my job.  I liked the early appointment - I was first - 15 minutes total.
    My dearest friend from high school sent me a huge gift pack of See's caramel, chocolate and coffee pops after my dx.  They lasted forever!  I took one when I was craving a sweet or feeling like I needed comfort. :-)  They are long gone....
    It lifts my spirits to fit into my nice clothes; however, that isn't always the case.  My favorite thing? having an easy dinner out!.   I am home alone 3 nights a week so it is easy to dive into the comfort food.  I'm leaving work now....I wonder what I'll pick up on the way home.  Laughing
    3 rads down - getting easier - but no SEs yet.
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  • JenBro
    JenBro Member Posts: 21
    edited November 2011

    Hi Ladies,

    I haven't posted in a while but have read through postings and kept all of you in my thoughts and prayers as we are all journeying through this challenging time.

    I've had folks lately tell me how good and rested I look! I almost have to laugh. Guess the Mary Kay is working better than I thought. I tell them thank you, but I feel far from it on the inside! My eyes always have that tired, burning feeling, and I feel like a slug most of the time.  Especially about an hour after treatments. 

    I have 8 left after today! The last 5 are a boost so I guess early next week I go an extra time for set-up for that. Can't wait and am also counting down. Feeling more fatigued and my skin is pink and itchy, but holding up okay. I've used aloe 4x a day since day 1, with hydrocortisone creme now for the itching, and use a fragrance free lotion from Whole Foods at night. I put some Aloe gel in a small travel bottle and have it in my purse so I can put it on immediately after my treatments now before I leave the treament center. That seems to be helping. Also use fragrance free everything from shower soap to laundry detergent and Bounce sheets in the dyer. Hoping things stay as they are through the end. I have a tan armpit now which I've never had before!

    I haven't had nausea, but have had a decreased appetite and lately heartburn. Has anyone else had that? 

    I went off Arimidex at week 2 of radiation because the 2 together were totally wiping me out. It has made a big difference. I'm really dreading going back on it after the radiation is over, but at least this way I only have to deal with one thing at a time.

    I'm allergic to chocolate. (I know major bummer) so my comfort food is sugar free vanilla ice cream with home made granola.

    This whole process is so challenging but I know we can all make it through one day at a time. This group has been a life line for me. Thanks all. Happy Hump Day. It's almost weekend again! ((HUGS))

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  • tvacrat
    tvacrat Member Posts: 60
    edited November 2011

    Hi all, Just dropped my sisters off at the airport (one on her way to Toronto, the other to Salt Lake City) and I think I'll be happy to have a little more time for me. But sometimes I think the distractions (visiting family, work, grandchildren) are making this easier. And I agree that it's amusing how often people tell me how wonderful I look. My skin is pretty red and the nipple kills, but they can't see that! But I only have two more tx this week and I think next week are the boosts, so I'm hoping by next Friday I'll feel better. I'm getting random pains which are calmed by Advil. I've been getting a very strange sensation during rads - I can't really describe it, but it makes me think of a balloon that's being blown up, if that makes sense. Kind of warm or numb or expanding. And it only happens during treatment. Anybody else?

    I only have good things to say about my experience. The nurses, doctors and techs have been consistent and consistently helpful and involved. Parking is available right outside and usually I'm in and out in 10 minutes unless I'm meeting with the nurse or RO. Even then it only adds 5 minutes to the appointment. I've only had to wait a couple of times. They even came in a little early for me this morning so that I could get to the airport in time. 

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  • RealtorJackie
    RealtorJackie Member Posts: 91
    edited December 2011

          My neck is now quite red and itchy.  I have been using Aquafor since day 1.  Now I am using cortisone, as well.  I hate that the worst of the redness is at my neck.  We have several Christmas parties coming up, and I had bought a nice black dress with the neckline open.  I guess I will shop for a scarf.  The red area looks like a hickey, and I hate this!

         I just had treatment 19.  I treat myself to a cupcake from the cupcake store.

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  • Natters
    Natters Member Posts: 361
    edited December 2011

    nans, this has been a surprisingly hard time for me, so I am indulging myself in many ways such as sleeping in a bit and eating all sorts of tasty treats. Most evenings after work and dinner, I curl up on the couch with our small pets in my PJs and read and watch TV. I'm taking it easy and hoping it allows my body to heal faster.

    Jackie - did your RO prescribe the cortisone or did you pick it up OTC? I told my RO the itching was starting to drive me nuts and first he said just apply more cream when you want to scratch. I insisted the cream wasn't enough anymore and he told me to get some Benadryl at the drugstore. This morning on my way to work I got some in gel form and I'm going to apply it soon. I will say that work at least mostly takes my mind off the itching - the worst is when I'm home, especially at bedtime. It really stinks that yours is so visible at this time of year :(  hope you find a beautiful, sparkly scarf that will feel less like a coverup and more like a festive and fun accessory!

    Nat 

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  • tvacrat
    tvacrat Member Posts: 60
    edited December 2011

    The nurse told me to use hydrocortisone 1% when mine got itchy. It helps a little. Being distracted by work or TV helps, too.

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  • lilylady
    lilylady Member Posts: 1,079
    edited December 2011

    I have had 10 of 28 tx today with no redness or irritation yet. But today when I was rubbing my cream in I have found a large hard knot in my chest. It isn;t anywhere near my scar. I have no idea how long it could have been there but I am slightly freaked. I have pushed on it so much today it is really sore. I switched to the Aquaphor and because I had to rub harder to get it to absorb that is when I felt it. I am hoping it is only an aggravated lymph node-I had a PET 3 weeks ago and my remaining cancer wasn't in that area at all.

      I see the Onc on Tuesday for Herceptin so I will get it checked out then but it is making me a little nuts. I am going to a function at the local cancer society toonight and my onc is the speaker-will have to fight off the urge to run up and throw open my shirt and ask him to look!!!

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  • Natters
    Natters Member Posts: 361
    edited December 2011

    I may get some hyrdrocort because I just read that my Benadryl gel has alcohol as one of the first few ingredients :/



    Lily-> thank you for that visual! I can just picture you interrupting a fancy function by undoing your top or pulling down your dress to show this onc your new lump....seriously, though - you have certainly been through enough already and I really hope this new knot turns out to be nothing.



    Reality check for me: I was sitting in the waiting area just now kinda feeling sorry for myself because they are running behind again, when they came in to get a much older woman in a wheelchair. She had no idea she was getting rads today and the tech explained to her and her daughter (?) that she was going to have a mask made and out on, and it would take about an HOUR. Can you imagine? That poor woman! I can't even imagine what she is getting treated for, but it made me realize (yet again) that I was being a whiny baby and was really quite lucky, in the grand scheme of things....

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  • bgail84
    bgail84 Member Posts: 94
    edited December 2011

    First treatment today. Wouldn't you know it, the tape they put on yesterday has already irritated
    my skin! 32 more to go! They keep telling me not to do anything to the area, so I don't really know what to do. Any advice?

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  • JenBro
    JenBro Member Posts: 21
    edited December 2011

    The hydrocortisone creme I got is OTC, but the Rad nurse told me if it didn't work they could give me a prescription for some that is cheap and stronger. So far I have been fine with what I have.

    Have 7 left. Today after my treatment they took me back to the CT room to do set up for my boost (last 5 treatments where they radiate around the area where the tumor was.) The Dr. came in and drew dashed lines to mark the field to radiate for the boost. Then they took some CT pictures. Only took about 15 minutes and I was done.

    I asked the nurse today if heartburn can be a SE of the radiation treatments and she said yes. She said to take Tums or if it gets worse Prilosec or some other OTC antacid and to avoid acidic foods. Today it even bothered me to drink water. Glad this will be over soon!

    Everyone at my treatment center has been wonderful. I told them today as much as I like all of them I will be glad to be done soon! 

    bgail: can they try a different kind of tape? I had a slight reaction with mine the first few days but then it settled down. I still put aloe gel on the radiated area from day one. All they told me was not to scrub the area in the shower but it was okay if it got wet. It's a lot to get used to at first. Hope things go well for you.

    Lily:  Praying it's nothing and you are just fine. LOL for the idea of the 'girls gone wild' moment with the Dr!

    Nat: Glad you are pampering yourself! You deserve it.  I have learned to not feel guilty on those days I come home from treatment and just need to crash for the rest of the day. Especially now toward the end of the treatments and fatigue is increasing. 

    Take care everyone. Almost weekend!

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  • lilylady
    lilylady Member Posts: 1,079
    edited December 2011

    I have had my tapes on for 3 weeks and they looked so grody I asked them if we could change them today. It ripped the hide off my armpit!! Then they laid the new piece right over top of the raw place. The rest didn;t feel real good when they pulled them but the skin stayed intact. Some kind of great tape because all the places were really still stuck pretty good. It was just some of the edges had pulled up a little and had gotten dirty.

       They told me there wan't much I could do for the one that messed the skin up. I see the rads guy Tuesday so I will show it to him.

    bgail84-Have you had tape allergies before?Maybe they can use a differnt type. They draw my X on then put a little clear round ban-aid type thing on. They don;t do tattoos at my place but i iwh they would.

       Natters-my other option besides flashing an entire auditorium was to ask him to go the bathroom for a quickie feel-up. I even drew a red sharpie circle around where it is so he could find it quicker. Or I could make him a treasure map using all 6 of the Rads XXX they have drawn on me in green marker.

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  • Natters
    Natters Member Posts: 361
    edited December 2011

    Omg thank you for the much-needed laugh! Treasure map?! All my DRs are so serious that I'd LOVE to see their reactions to something like that.



    You guys can ask for tattoos and your place might still do them for the ladies that prefer them - at my center it is no longer the default but they actually prefer them if the patient is at all willing. It has been nice not to be covered in large Sharpie marks and wear more open collars. Also, the tape was almost coming off in the shower and it was so itchy! I'm so glad I got my little ink dots instead.



    If the itching gets worse, I may try the Benadryl at bedtime, then get the other stuff tomorrow or this weekend. Jen I'm just a little away from my boosts, so I'm glad to hear setup is only maybe an extra 15 minutes.



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  • RealtorJackie
    RealtorJackie Member Posts: 91
    edited December 2011

    Natters:  They told me to get the OTC hydrocortisone.  I am bad, and didn't get it yet!  I have been so busy selling houses--yes, in December.  I saw a lady at rads, and she has a big aloe plant.  She is going to bring me a leaf tomorrow for my skin.

    I got a black, lacy scarf for our party tomorrow night,  Hoping to feel like a SEX KITTEN!   MEOWWWWWWWWWWW.

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  • kdajay
    kdajay Member Posts: 90
    edited December 2011

    Lilylady -I have to ask...do you go to OHC? If so, who is your RO? Sorry about the armpit skin! I know how much that hurts. If you are going to flash the doc,let me know. I live close enough to come watch!!

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  • kdajay
    kdajay Member Posts: 90
    edited December 2011

    Tomorrow is my birthday...and my last 'regular' treatment. What a present! After tomorrow, only five boosts to go. What WILL I do with my time? :-)

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  • ptdreamers
    ptdreamers Member Posts: 1,080
    edited December 2011

    I agree with the comment about the tatoos if possible. They are so small as to be hardly noticeable. The hydrocortisone cream seems to help. My RO told me today that the fatiqie we are feeling is the body's response to the overwhelming insult of radiation. Makes sense. He said take naps , go to bed earlier or whatever works for you.My quote for the day is:

    I like being old. It  has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live  forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could  have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single  day (if I feel like it).   

    I'm 65 and I figure there are alot of good years ahead.

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  • LuvRVing
    LuvRVing Member Posts: 4,516
    edited December 2011

    Rad #2 today...got the tattoos at the planning session and they STILL did the marker with tape...LOL.  When I asked initially to not have tattoos, they told me it wouldn't be accurate enough.  Well, the tattoos were so faint they couldn't find them at first.  So now I have both.  I told them to watch the tape because my skin doesn't like the adhesive.  They are so far towards my back that I can't really see them.  Traffic into Boston was ugly tonight, took us 25 minutes longer than yesterday.

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  • Vicks1960
    Vicks1960 Member Posts: 473
    edited December 2011

    Good evening fellow fighters!!!

    I have received the best early Christmas gift a gal could ask for.  Have been released by BS, MO, RO until April.  So I can quit doing the MD shuffle for a while!!!  THANK YOU!!!!!!!!

    We will be leaving Nebraska in a couple of weeks for the rest of the winter, so I will not be able to read posts here regularily, However, I WILL CONTINUE TO THINK OF AND PRAY FOR EACH OF YOU as you continue your journey to beat the demon!!!!

    My BS removed the drain tuesday, that he had put in the week before, to relieve the swelling from the Contura Rads.  It feels much better,  

    All physicians say it will probably take me several months to get rid of the swelling and hard spots, but that is a small price to pay to get rid of the BC.

    Have had no SE from the Letrozole (generic Femara),.  Have been taking it for 10 days.  Understand it will be a daily thing for the next 5 years.

    Keep hanging in there.... it has to get better...

    Happy Holidays to each of you..

    Vickie

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  • ptdreamers
    ptdreamers Member Posts: 1,080
    edited December 2011

    Vicks1960 What great news. Assume you are heading to warmer climes like Arizona or Florida. Rads finishes the end of December and after I start meds I hope to get to a warmer climate for at least two or three weeks. Washington isn't  as bad as some places but it is cold and rainy. Have a great holiday.

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