Summer Rads 2014

ktfelder · July 2014

I have 4 regular (with clavicle) and 5 boosts left. My skin has held up really, really well! It's not really red or anything. It feels a bit tender, but looks fine, and no real pain. RO was surprised!

I have been using Aquaphor every night. I hate the feel of it so my RO said I could switch to Miaderm. I tried that for a day or so, but didn't feel like it was protecting me as much as Aquaphor did, so I switched back. It's a short-term inconvenience I can certainly live with!

Rosiesride · July 2014

So, aquaphor every night...I will also try that...did you start from the beginning? I am 9 treatments in and have ...I have 19 whole breast and clavicle...then 8 boosts, so I have a lot left! HOpe I hold up well too!! Thanks!

Rosiesride · July 2014

Thanks Sunshineinky....I will also start using my aloe...already started cornstarch!

Deblc · July 2014

Hi Ladies, I have finished 14 of 25 treatments and so far so good. I see some skin darkening but other than that and some itchiness, no problems. I have used baby powder with cornstarch a couple times for the itchiness but no lotions or aloe at all, per my RO's instructions. I had a mastectomy with no reconstruction, so in the breast area it is my chest and scar that is being irradiated, and the techs say they see less skin problems with that, I hope they are right!!!!!!! They say I only have to worry about skin breakdown in the underarm area, and so far, so good. My RO says there will not be any boosts, they only do boosts if you still have a breast. I see other people have different protocols, I don't understand why there isn't a STANDARD procedure.

I however, am so tired, and getting worse every day. I could sleep all day !!!! (Never really got my energy back from chemo, so might be cumulative)

lyzzysmom · July 2014

Rosie, sounds like you are on similar schedule to me, 8 of 33 including boosts. It would have been 9 but I messed up on what date I could start. I am a B cup so have given up most of the time on bra and fitted clothing to reduce sweating. The RO told me not to use anything except Elta Lite for now. Will ask again on Tuesday as I also have Aquaphor and aloe but he said not to use for now, just stresses that use of Elta every day . Right breast looks a little pink and lower part of nipple just slightly swollen but I can't say for sure how much is from rads and how much still from surgery. I have that fair freckle prone skin that tends to burn so don't know how that may affect things.

It also sounds like you are having a similar problem. The right, treatment side is fine, just a little soreness in right arm as a result of an earlier muscle problem. The left shoulder gets painful some days worse than others. I never knew there was a problem until simulation day when I got really nauseous on the table. I felt like such a baby having to be helped off afterwards. Some days they seem to want that extra couple of centimeters which makes a difference and the shoulder will give an involuntary twitch. Fortunately they are really fast and use hot towels.

3rdtimenow · July 2014

Hi ladies, I too, am starting radiation soon, next Tuesday the 8th. Has anyone on here had radiation for a second time? I have been looking for someone who has. I did great the first time, but that was 13 years ago, I was in much better shape then and I am told that there is more risk for me now, so I am slightly stressed, no really stressed. I'm happy to have found this group. Best of luck to all of us.

Sunshineinky · July 2014

Hi 3rdtime! Are you having it a 2nd time on the same breast or is it the opposite one?

Rosiesride · July 2014

izzysmom...you also have ILC...what is Elta Lite? Is it over the counter? I have been using cetaphyl creme and aloe at times...I will ask doctor on Monday what I should use,... It hadn't started bothering me until yesterday.

My techs are pretty fast too...I had neck issues in the past and minor shoulder strain here and there but they kept me longer for x-rays the other day and it all started in again...hoping our 3 day weekend heals my neck and shoulder! When do they give you a hot towel? I feel like if I just had a little cushion under my neck it would help...hope next week is ok for us!! Rosie

Crazywabbit · July 2014

my center has those thin cotton blankets that they keep in a warming cabinet. When the room is really chilly they cover my arms and stomach with them. Very toasty nice.

lyzzysmom · July 2014

Rosie, we are both pr- too. They put the hot towels over my arms and hands just before they leave the room before the machine goes on.

The Elta Lite is a moisturizing cream in a tube. It was given me by the RO but it is over the counter and very inexpensive. I just checked on Amazon and it is there as a diabetic Care product so you can probably just ask the pharmacist. Otherwise Amazon deliver very fast. I am going to order a spare tube along with a seat belt pad.

Yes lets hope everything is fine next week. The nurse said maybe around day 12 people sometimes start to notice something. Fingers crossed.

Maybe they could put something under your neck for a little support unless it changes their calculations. or moves your neck closer to the radiation area. Perhaps just a warm towel under your neck may help if they can do that.

lyzzysmom · July 2014

3rdtimenow, Hello. So sorry you are having to go through all this yet again. Hopefully all will go well as you did so well before. The question of radiation more than once does seem confusing. Best of luck on Tuesday! I do hope your RO can help alleviate some of your worries.

3rdtimenow · July 2014

Hi Sunshine, I had internal beam radiation on the same breast 3 years ago, and external on the other one 13 years ago, but there is going to be overlap, because this tumor was so close to the breast bone.

Sunshineinky · July 2014

I feel like I've learned something new!! I had actually asked my therapist when I first started rads if a person could have therapy more than once. He said it was based on each individual circumstance and how long in between each time.

I'm so sorry you're going through this again!!! Will you take tamoxifen again as well?

Cannoli1 · July 2014

Hope everyone had a nice 4th of July!!

So frustrated today...have to vent. Wednesday, my RO went over my boost plan and the remainder of my "regular" rads with me. He said that I only have 2 more rads to the collar bone and neck area and 4 more to the entire breast and that the only area I would have my boost is over the very outer thin layer skin of my left breast. The radiologist tech that does my radiation said just the opposite; that my records show that I have 2 more rads to my entire breast area and 4 more to my collar bone and neck area. And, to top that off, the other doctor in the office told me that my boost would be under my arm, under my left breast, and in the spot where my tumor was. WILL SOMEONE PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON WITH MY BOOBS?????? When I went for radiation Thursday, the radiologist tech assured me that things will be straightened out by Monday. I was extremely disappointed and scared by all of this confusion.

Sunshineinky....how many more rads do you have?

rettemich · July 2014

I hope everyone had a Great 4th, and enjoying the long weekend.

lyzzy, That lotion sounds wonderful after I researched it. I like a lite lotion. Sounds good just to use. I have really dry skin. Thanks for the tip going to get some for sure. I would ask the techs if they can do anything for your neck. As suggested even just a warm towel might help.

3rdtimenow, I too was under the impression you could only receive rads once. But they did say that depending on how much. That there was a limit to how much one can have in a lifetime for certain areas. Learn something new every day. Good luck to you I hope it goes smooth.

Cannoli, It is so frustrating when they get messed up. They had my schedule so screwed up for the first 2-3 weeks it was crazy. I finally saw the "scheduler" and pretty much demanded it get straightened out. Your dealing with enough it's crazy that they don't even know whats going on. I feel for ya sister. Make sure it is straightened out before they treat you again.

Only 3 more boosts. But boy, I can sure feel the 2 I have gotten. The bed is about midway and it is really sore, and achy. So, so glad it's a 3 day weekend.

Sunshineinky · July 2014

Cannoli I only have three more boost and my boost are to my tumor site but they go from two different angles. Just make sure they are hitting it and you will be able to tell the difference. Boost are much easier for me.

Rett I've luckily had no pain or redness to the boost site. I've just been keeping it lubed up and hopefully it'll be smooth sailing from here on out.

I would post a picture of my underarm area to show you all what I've been dealing with but I'm afraid it my scare those that haven't started! I've been amazed though at how quickly it's healed just in the last two days! So if you haven't started rads yet don't be scared. Not everyone has issues and if you do, our bodies have the ability to heal itself.

Izzy I looked your lotion up and I may go get some to use in the months after rads.

Barbara I hope you're having a great weekend and enjoying the break as much as me!!!

megomendy · July 2014

3rdtimenow, I had internal accelerated radiation in 4/13 on my right breast and when I finish Taxol, will be having whole breast radiation on that same breast. The internal was so easy, twice a day for a week. I hope this upcoming radiation is as easy???

Crazywabbit · July 2014

cannoli - you probably have less sessions to the color bone, SC area, then then whole breast, I have 26 to the SC area and 28 whole breast. The techs commented that I will get 2 less zaps after Mondays last one to the SC area for the last 2 whole breast Rxs. I imagine my 5 boosts will come from different angles since it is part of the IMRT.

3rdtimenow- more complex t get re-radiated. I am sure they will carefully calculate the dose you need. Sorry you are going though it again.

Sunshineink- it is a beautiful weekend here. We only got cool temps and light winds from Arthur. My husband went with me to the fireworks downtown this year, it has been at least 10 years since he last went. The 3 days I think will help decrease the redness over my collarbone area. I broke down and started Aquaphor at night and California Baby during the day. Also some hydrocortisone when it gets really itchy. Only one more day left to that area.

Rettenmich & Sunshineink. Three to go YEAH. I have 8 but whos's counting LOL.

Sunshineinky · July 2014

Ha Ha Barbara we are ALL counting down for ourselves and each other!

It's been a beautiful weekend here as well. I'm just so thankful I feel a zillion times better. I've cleaned my kitchen cabinets and dresser drawers out today. So it's been busy for me! I'm going to clean the fridge and then do nothing the rest of the day!

Hi Meg! When are your rads treatments starting?

Louanne · July 2014

Rett, and Cannoli, my schedule has been messed up also. I learned Thursday instead of 4 more boosts there was only 2 left. I've been having a hard time since the beginning trying to figure this out.

Sunshineinky, I was sailing through the boosts also until Thursday later in the day after my treatment. I'm really red, sore, and burning. I'm starting to question the last boost for Monday. I'm going to talk to the techs and ask to see the Dr. if I'm not satisfied. Not so sure if receiving the last boost will make that much difference?

Megomendy, don't let me discourage you on the external radiation. I really haven't had much of a problem until now.

Sunshineinky · July 2014

Louanne I'm sorry to hear you're in pain and red!! I'm not sure I understand the boost but knock on wood I've had 5 with no issues. I would ask the doc but I suspect they'll advise you to go for it!!

I'm finally healing and today I have felt incredibly well with a bountiful boost of energy which I'm just thankful for. I just hope it's all good from here. I have lots of skin coming off but I'm currently in little to no pain.

AnnBR · July 2014

Hello ladies! Next week is my final week of rads (they'll be boosts) and I can hardly wait to be done. These past two weeks have been extremely difficult as I was diagnosed with Brachial Plexopathy and Tendinopathy. Both condictions have been brought on by the radiation, the BP is from nerve and tissue damage and the Tendinopathy by holding my arm above my head for so long. I've had two injections into my shoulder which at least help me sleep at night. Once radiation is complete, my shoulder should get better. A friend of mine made me a banner which says "I did it!" in pink letters with a pink ribbon next to it. It has been signed by many family members and friends and will be held in front of me as I ring the bell. I will be a total mess!!!!!!

Hope everyone is doing well.

Ann

Sunshineinky · July 2014

Anne I had two cortisone injections too!! They helped me tremendously. My injury to my shoulder happened right before I was diagnosed and surgery and rads just increased my pain.

Good luck next week, I finish on Wednsday and I suspect I'll be a mess too. I'm so looking forward to moving on.

Louanne · July 2014

Sunshineinky, glad you are feeling better! My redness and burning could be due to the fact they are hitting the area once at the same angle. I'm starting to wish I could have gotten the last one over on Friday. I'm grateful I only have one left to go though!

Good luck to all the ladies! Have a great rest of the weekend!

Rosiesride · July 2014

so it seems a lot of us have shoulder/ neck issues that have been aggravated by the positioning for rads...that's stinks! I am going to ask about the warm towel under my neck...I also think I am still trying to bounce back from chemo and muscles are so week...forearms are achy ...could that be from holding them in the position for rads?? Elbows too...guess it's all connected and one effects the other...sheesh!!

Izzysmom...I will check out the lotion! Thanks. Rosie

3rdtimenow · July 2014

Oh oh, I am not liking the shoulder stories. I am going in with a bad shoulder and was very uncomfortable when I had the simulation. Why is it that when it rains it must pour? I start my first of 33 treatments on Tues. Rettenmich and Sunshineink, unfortunately my first rads on the other breast were 13 years ago and my records are gone, so we don't really know what my dose was. They are just assuming they were standard for the time and going ahead based on that, hope it won't exceed my lifetime limit. My thanks to all of you ladies. Stephanie

lyzzysmom · July 2014

Stephanie, as bad as my shoulder hurt on the first simulation, the treatments have been so much shorter that it has been doable. On the days it has hurt it has only been for a couple of minutes. Hopefully yours will go quickly too.

rettemich · July 2014

crazyrabbit, We are counting for everyone. We will count down with you .

Sunshine, glad to hear you are feeling so much better. Isn't the boost of energy wonderful. I had one on Friday. It was so nice to feel almost "normal" again.

Rosie, it sucks that we have to endure the treatment and then the pain of the positioning. I hope you get some relief. This whole thing sucks.

Friday was a great day for me, then came Saturday. Starting getting pains from the boosts. I know it's the boosts, as it is right where the "bed" is. It got so bad when I was showering I almost fell to my knees from the pain. Was NOT expecting that. I ended up taking a pain pill that I haven't done in months. to help me sleep. And, I was still up half the night. Now I'm getting scared about the last 3. It just never ends.

Sunshineinky · July 2014

Rett we will make it through these last three!! I had a couple of weird rouge spots show up last night. I'm not sure where they came from unless they're boost related!

Stephanie had I known how much the cortisone shots would have helped I would have got them much sooner than I did.

I also wonder about the lifetime limit of radiation. I think that's a question I'm going to ask this Tuesday.

Happy Sunday!

count_it_all_joy · July 2014

Wow, sounds like our group is holding up really well. Wouldn't it be amazing if we all came through with minimal issues?? Exciting weather stories, tho! Here in AZ we were just excited to get some lightening and a few rain drops last night. "Hot and sunny" can get boring.

We went away for the 4th, came home exhausted late last night, and STILL couldn't sleep. I took one of my sleeping aids from chemo days. Just woke up a while ago to realize it was after 10, and dh had taken the girls to church and left me in bed. It felt so good to sleep!! I used to be one of those people who was out moments after I laid down… REALLY miss those days. Post-chemo ladies, are you sleeping well? Any tricks? (or anyone, I'm just assuming my issues are from what the chemo did to my hormones.)

Rosie - since you asked us to share, my favorite 2 products are my aloe plant (I switched from the bottled aloe when I ran out and came across a big plant for $6. I think my skin has reacted much better to the real stuff, but it's always hard to tell.) and My Girls cream. It has calendula, coconut oil, and a bunch of other stuff I don't remember. Both are in the frig, so it always feels like a treat to lather up. I put them on 3 or 4 times a day. And I agree with sunshine - corn starch is so helpful! Anytime I start sweating underneath, I know my skin is going to be more sensitive there. So I dust that area several times each day.

I have 3 boosts left. YAY!!! My skin used to be rather bright red, now it's more of a tan red, and less sensitive than when I was getting full breast treatments. I kept expecting issues, but never got any. Now I'm still hoping to come all the way through without breaking down at the end. May not happen, but it's less tiring to be optimistic!

Summer Rads 2014

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