Radiation Therapy Pain During Breast Cancer: How to Manage & What to Expect

[@bobbipetty7411]

I was so lucky not to have any burn at all. I got a little pink, but that's it. Chemo on the other hand, was brutal for me.

[@cynthiayee5116]

For me Radiation had Burn tisssue and chemo was worst

[@TheyfoundRickGrimes]

Agreed about the Chemo! but just got 2 more to go - whoop! 🎉 ( not going to lie it’s been way harder than I thought it it would be ) but then 16 radiotherapy, so I am a bit worried. On the other hand NOTHING can be worse than chemo can it?! 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@cynthiayee5116]

@nancyferrari6743 I had 22 rounds

[@cynthiayee5116]

@nancyferrari6743 Yeah Chemo.was horribel for me ..everything tasted meattalic ..I was only 30 kilo a 47 year old woman

[@cynthiayee5116]

@nancyferrari6743 hope you get well better with your treatment

[@rihamsalah84]

Thanks so much , thats exactly what happened to me , my skin was a mess but it recovered after a week , no pain now just some discoloration . Not a big deal . However after 2 months now muscles of chest area still tighten if I missed 1 day of stretching exercise.

[@yerbba]

It's great to hear that your skin recovered relatively quickly from the radiation therapy. Dealing with tight muscles can be challenging, but it's good that you're committed to your stretching exercises to manage it. Thank you for watching.

[@lesleynyborg2093]

Thank you for your videos. I'm 8 months post surgery; lumpectomy, SNB (8 lymph nodes removed, 1 positive) and experienced extreme pain on 1/5. I followed-up with my surgeon who moved up my next scheduled mammogram and radiation oncologist who ordered a MRI and CT scan. I've also been experiencing numbness in my arms to fingertips. I knew I would experience aches/pains/zings and twinges but WOW this hurt. I am seeing PT, again, for weakness on my left-cancer side.

[@yerbba]

Thank you for sharing your experience. It sounds like you're taking proactive steps to address your concerns, which is important. Numbness and weakness may occur after surgery and radiation. You may find our video on peripheral neuropathy that you may find helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZbLZIZ9mLx8fLM.

[@olgamuszynska2524]

I had no pain, no skin issues during and after radiotherapy. I had if for 3 weeks, every day. What I am experiencing this days - 3, 4 months after it - is thightness, hardness , stiffness of the area- chest wall, arm, shoulder. Like it wouldn’t be part of my body anymore but hard wooden plank. I’m doing exercises, massages, Pilates ,I use cupping but I don’t really see any improvement 😞 maybe I need more time, maybe it will never be what it was before cancer, chemo, mastectomy and radiation? I don’t know 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@yerbba]

It sounds like you're doing a lot to manage the tightness and stiffness after radiation therapy. It's not uncommon to experience these sensations after treatment, and it's understandable to feel uncertain about whether things will improve over time. Consistent exercise, massages, and other therapies can help, but it's important to be patient with yourself and give your body the time it needs to heal.

[@lupecc3587]

This is me ! I had no problems during radiation, and after not bad at all , I’m 6 months after radiation and still having pain/ tightness/ just a uncomfortable feeling, I do my exercises 2-3 times a week , should I be doing them every day ?

[@kimc5321]

Give yourself more grace and time 😇 .. the journey can be a longer process than we want. I was diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer in my right breast in 2017, I opted for a double mastectomy, 4 rounds of chemo and 36 radiation treatments ( 1 positive lymph node out of 6 were removed) in 2018. From radiation treatments, I experienced auxiliary webbing syndrome ( perhaps you are experiencing the same??) and physical therapy along with me maintaining my workouts (weightlifting, yoga, and cardio ) at the gym helped tremendously. My radiation oncologist is the one that diagnosed my webbing and referred me to a physical therapist that specialized in treating it. Just a suggestion maybe you should see if this is what you were experiencing. May God continue to bless you and your continued healing … stay strong…keep the negative thoughts away … we are warriors 💝😇🙏🏾

[@vajiragurusinghe8576]

​@@yerbbalp.

[@Elaine-w2s]

@@kimc5321hi, how are you? are you on oral medication?

[@Kaynos]

I have 5 session left out of 18 radiotherapy session for an armpit lymphoma. I have zero issues with the skin around my armpit. I was warned of possible sunburn like effect or lost of hair in the area and nothing.... besides the size of my lymphoma that shrunk by 90% ! I'm amazed. I keep the area moisturized with cream even if it doesn't show any signs of redness.

[@yerbba]

That’s incredible progress-90% shrinkage is a fantastic response! It’s great that you’re moisturizing, even without skin reactions. It is possible that skin problems may arise as you approach the end of your treatment. There's a little lag.

[@sharonclark1709]

Could you do a video on radiation fibrosis therapy. I only experienced a bit of the “sunburn” pain but have a lot of pain and tightness months after the radiation

[@conniejohnsoncj8724]

If you have access to an osteopath, they are amazing! My arms were very sore from holding them over my head and I went for osteopath treatments and it was alleviated right away and never returned. I do see an osteopath every 6 weeks though for tuneup all over.

[@yerbba]

Sure, thanks for the suggestion.

[@Elaine-w2s]

@@conniejohnsoncj8724what do they do? exercise?

[@conniejohnsoncj8724]

@@Elaine-w2s no, it’s like a massage with stretching; no cracking like chiropractors! You leave feeling like you’ve been massaged and your muscles and tissue feel amazing! Find one that has a lot of reviews that indicate resolve! Mine is amazing!

[@Elaine-w2s]

@@conniejohnsoncj8724 thanks! hope your body recovered now☺️

[@naththomas9946]

Thank you, Dr. Griggs, for your continuous support for breast cancer (health) and awareness.

[@yerbba]

Thank you for being part of our community. We appreciate you!

[@jeangresty3831]

I have three more sessions of Radiation Therapy to go. My specific therapy was Hypofractionated at 42 Gy for a total of 16 days. I've been very lucky to not have skin changes thus far, however, I do have a small blister that developed on the areola of my nipple along with hypersensitivity of the nipple itself - nothing too painful. Of course I had the Radiation Oncologist look at it and he felt that it was nothing to worry about. I all I can say to anyone who will be going through this - use the Ointments, Creams or anything that is recommended to you by your Radiation team faithfully! I applied it three times a day without fail with good results.

[@yerbba]

It's great to hear you've had minimal side effects with your radiation therapy. Continue using recommended ointments to manage any skin issues, and stay connected with your radiation oncologist for ongoing care.

[@Elaine-w2s]

what did you use for skin care?

[@TheyfoundRickGrimes]

Thankyou so much for the advice, I have radio treatment in the spring - very informative 👍🏻

[@yerbba]

We're glad you found the video helpful. Wishing you all the best with your upcoming radiotherapy treatment in the spring.

[@sherinehill9586]

Thank GOD for u advising the public

[@yerbba]

Thank you for watching.

[@juaquiene7726]

Some time has passed for me now. Approximately a year. Have had issues with my armpit. From a long lingering seroma. To developing an abscess. Which required weeks of daily treatment.. Even with that healed now. I have a weird spot of mild but prosistant pain. I struggle to come to terms. With what is my new normal? Even my poor breast after a terrible lumpectomy is left with weird bulges. The surgeon sliced through my nipple and put in stitches so tight. My nipple is constantly stimulated. It points upward at an unatural angle. It feeaks me out. I do my best to ignore what I been left with. This I feel is something a woman should be warned about. Before surgery. Your contours are forever changed. Lumps and bumps that sure are alarming but this is the new you. Nerve damage that can be permanent. I feel counselling should be in place to forewarn and prepare a woman. But no, your told nothing. Find things out after the fact. Chemo & radiation can certainly cause changes in your body. That can go on forever.

[@yerbba]

It sounds like you have had a lot of side effects indeed. All of these effects are part of the informed consent process. That is, doctors are required to inform patients about the side effects that are common, uncommon, and rare. The problem is that many people are not able to absorb all the information at the beginning of treatment because of information overload. You can ask your team if you can see the informed consent forms that you signed.

[@iselasotolongo6695]

Your videos are always so helpful, thank you

[@yerbba]

Thank you so much for the positive feedback!

[@normawright292]

I had 30 radiation treatments. My skin started peeling off after 16-17 sessions and it was oozing and very painful. What helped me was putting aloe gel with lidocaine on a large pad and wearing a sport bra to keep it secure. I did cut one of the pads in half and put under my breast which helped there. I slept with a small pillow under my arm with a fan blowing on me, that helped a great deal. My PCP prescribed me Silvadene which almost immediately started healing the burns. It was a godsend!!!

[@yerbba]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience and these helpful tips! Radiation can be so tough on the skin, and it’s great to hear that aloe with lidocaine and those creative adjustments like the fan and pillow really made a difference for you. These tips could be incredibly helpful for others facing similar side effects-thank you for sharing them with our Yerbba community!

[@annmcnamara8]

Thank you that was so helpful though I'm over it all for a while I didnt want to know any details I plastered on E45 every day15 in total .Now I am so delighted you are out there and I can listen to you explaining with ease. Your Brilliant ❤

[@yerbba]

Thank you for your kind words. We're glad you found the information helpful!

[@viviennechew2839]

pain existed for short period towards the last week of the 5-weeks long radiation. They are not comfortable but manageable, with light medication. However I just had implants exchange surgery, and my radiated side is feeling stiffer and tighter. Surgeon said it is common for areas that have been radiated. Hope this is not permanent and will loosen up over time.

[@yerbba]

It's understandable to feel concerned about the stiffness and tightness, especially after surgery. Your surgeon's reassurance that this is common for radiated areas is reassuring. Hopefully, with time and proper care, it will indeed loosen up. Wishing you a smooth recovery.

[@catherineclissold3985]

What about pain from fluid pockets. Will the fluid drain away on its own?

[@yerbba]

In general, these pockets do disappear on their own. Some people need to have an aspiration to remove the fluid. This can be done in the office.

[@NikJSD]

Why does no one talk about the stabbing burning pain inside my breast and chest? I am starting to think the machines I have been treated on - are malfunctioning. 😓😓😓

[@yerbba]

Stabbing pains are not common, but your experience is very real! It is unlikely that the machines are not working properly. It would be good to talk over your symptoms with your radiation therapy team.

[@janiceilacqua6501]

I am having this pain, too. My last treatment was 6 days ago. Any thoughts?

[@tevans4915]

I'm going to radiation therapy (lumpectomy) and this video is so helpful and reassuring. Thank you! I am nervous as I was told my lungs and ribs will be slightly radiated as my chest is shaped like a half barrel. Scary, but I was also told that I will heal and even in my sixties can run a short marathon next year! I did inquire about "Mepitel" film but they are not using it, although I could apply this film if I wanted ... Dr. Griggs, what do you think of Mepitel Film for radiation?

[@yerbba]

Mepitel Film shows some promise in reducing radiation-induced skin reactions for people with large breasts who are undergoing radiotherapy, particularly those at higher risk for severe reactions. However, it's not a perfect solution for all patients, and more research may be needed to determine its long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness in various clinical settings. Thanks for your question.

[@Kantorka2]

How about long term fibrosis? What do I have to expect?

[@yerbba]

Fibrosis in the area of the breast and chest wall can often be managed well with physical therapy, including massage. Fibrosis in other parts of the body, such as the lung, usually does not cause symptoms since such a tiny portion of the lung receives any radiation.

[@tracydikeman8129]

Cetaphil cream in the round container is great for radiation.

[@yerbba]

Thanks for sharing this tip!

[@aljettabroughton7502]

I am thinking about taking radiation but I’m concerned about the effects it has on my white blood platelets being that they are already smaller than they should be. Please let me know your thoughts on this issue. Thanking you in advance. Aljetta B.

[@yerbba]

Thanks for the question. Radiation therapy can lower white blood cell counts, which is why your medical team will check your blood work. It is unlikely to cause problems in terms of increasing your risk of infection, however. Platelets are unlikely to be lowered in a significant way.

[@kathrynhuffman9826]

Can you have radiation done in the same spot twice?

[@yerbba]

In general, it is not recommended to have radiation therapy to the same place twice unless many years have passed. The skin's tolerance for radiation therapy is the main reason we avoid re-radiation. Thanks for watching!

[@jessica_7332]

Hi Dr Griggs, I am grateful to be able to find your youtube channel as it helps me to feel reassured each time. I have a question that I would like to seek your help please. Can you please advise what else can I do to better manage the soreness and moderate pain to my nipple after radiation treatment, other than applying moisturising cream daily? Does apply scarring gel help? Its been a week since completion and sore+pain still persist. Sometimes I felt like crying as the pain would last 30mins or so after each shower even when I gently wash over it. Thank you in advance for your guidance.

[@yerbba]

We’re glad to hear our channel provides you with reassurance. This sounds really painful! You should be starting to feel better soon. For nipple soreness after radiation, besides moisturizing cream, you might try applying a scarring gel to see if it helps. Cold compresses after showering can also reduce pain and inflammation. It’s important to be gentle with the area and keep communicating with your healthcare team. We’re here to support you, and thank you for sharing your experience.

[@msladyc_1892]

How necessary is radiation if the lymph nodes were negative and im ER+her2- im due tp start radiation in two weeks for 4 weeks then tamoxifen after that. But im a little hesitant about radiation and the tamoxifen honestly

[@yerbba]

It's completely understandable to be hesitant. The necessity of radiation therapy can depend on various factors, including the specifics of your diagnosis and overall treatment plan. Since your lymph nodes are negative and you are ER+ HER2-, your doctor likely recommended radiation to reduce the risk of local recurrence. If you’re based in the U.S., consider visiting app.yerbba.com/signup to access personalized treatment options and navigate your diagnosis with confidence. This comprehensive resource details likelihood levels, pros and cons, and personalized insights for each treatment option. It ensures that you are aware of all possible treatment options, including those that may not have been discussed with your medical team. Your Yerbba Report helps you effectively discuss all possible treatment options with your medical team.

[@sobiahayat6880]

Hi , I am feeling pain in my bones after six months of radiation. Pls suggest, What should I do

[@yerbba]

While we can't offer specific medical advice, this type of pain warrants checking in with your medical team. While the pain could be related to the radiation therapy, it may also be due to other things that are treatable. Wishing you the best.

[@Theritualstore]

15 sessions - no burns - used biofirst Manuka Skin Saver

[@yerbba]

It’s great to hear that you didn’t experience burns after 15 sessions. Thanks for sharing what worked for you!

[@eaglewingstf]

Can you address neuropathy and radiation? Also, Dexcom will fail during radiation. Is there a video that addresses type 2diabetes with radiation?

[@yerbba]

Neuropathy and radiation can be challenging, and you're right that devices like Dexcom can have issues during treatment. We haven’t covered type 2 diabetes specifically in radiation, but it’s an important topic. We do have a video about neuropathy you can find here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHzCYmNsi9-gq9k. We recommend speaking with your care team about managing both neuropathy and diabetes during radiation. Thank you for bringing this up!

[@elainespeirs7800]

I had two bad radiation burns. Ask for treatment as soon as the skin is red or even slightly sore as i waited too long

[@yerbba]

Thank you for sharing your experience and advice. Radiation burns can be very painful. It's crucial to let your medical team know soon as you notice any redness or soreness. Early intervention can make a big difference in managing the discomfort.

[@Vemz1987]

My Leg is still in pain after Radiation especially my Foot, pain killers are not working, can you please give advice in how to manage please

[@yerbba]

We're sorry to hear that you're still in pain after radiation. Other pain management options like physical therapy, massage, or acupuncture may provide some relief. Also, don't hesitate to reach out to your medical team, there may be treatments that might be more effective.

[@dorothyhughes1061]

Thank you!

[@yerbba]

Thanks for watching!

[@stardom8182]

Thanks for the video. My mom-in-law is Stage 1 breast cancer, and the doctor is suggesting either “mastectomy without radiation therapy”, OR “Lumptectomy but with radiation therapy”… The issue is that she is a diabetic, and worried that if she does radiation therapy that her burns might not heal as quickly as normal non-diabetic people. We are confused which option is preferable. What would you suggest?

[@yerbba]

Thanks for the question. If your mom-in-law is being offered both types of surgery, it is likely that both are reasonable options. Most people with diabetes who receive radiation therapy do not experience excessive toxicity, so if she prefers lumpectomy with radiation therapy, this is a good option for her. Of course, everyone is different, and if she has specific concerns, she can ask the radiation oncology team. She is fortunate to have you looking out for her.

[@Trish-np6gn]

My dermatologist recommended a hyaluronic acid cream. I don’t know how well it works yet. I start radiation in a couple of weeks.

[@yerbba]

Starting radiation soon can be challenging. Using a hyaluronic acid cream should be safe to keep your skin hydrated. Let your radiation oncologist know everything you're using.

[@TrayGC]

Can you take hydrocortisone for the pain of radiation surgery on the liver.

[@yerbba]

In people having pain from radiation therapy, it's important to understand the cause. Your medical team should be involved in decisions about corticosteroids or alternatives.

[@haidynoshy6792]

Can radiation cause stiffness to back joints 2 years after

[@yerbba]

Radiation therapy does not cause long-lasting back pain. It is possible that if a lesion in the spine is radiated, there may have been a compression fracture. Talk over possible causes with your medical team.

[@deniseloatman4706]

My sister had surgery a year ago. Still feeling radiant in her legs. Only when she go to sleep. She have radiation pallet in her breast for almost a year now. What can she do.

[@yerbba]

It’s not uncommon to feel lingering sensations or pain after breast surgery, especially with radiation involved. It is not likely that her symptoms are from breast radiation therapy. We'd recommend consulting with her oncologist and perhaps a neurologist or physical therapist. They might suggest nerve pain management techniques, medications, or physical therapy exercises to relieve discomfort.

[@samanthaesra4035]

Can one get radiation to kill cancer nodes in the chest cavity behind the heart and in the neck ? How does it work ? This being after x8 chemo and after a full mastectomy.

[@yerbba]

Yes, radiation can sometimes be used to target cancer in areas like the chest and neck, even after chemotherapy and mastectomy. The radiation is carefully directed to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues, including the heart. Your radiation oncologist would develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to your specific situation to ensure the best possible outcome. Thank you for watching!

[@samanthaesra4035]

Thank you Doctor. If the cancer nodes are in the lung cavity behind my heart then will the radiation will be delivered from the back and not from the front. Sorry for asking but I'm at two state hospitals and they don't like me to ask questions in advance.

[@yerbba]

Great question. The lymph nodes, while behind the heart, are still much closer to the front of your body than the back. There will be efforts made to protect the heart. It's impressive what the radiation oncology physicists can do.

[@kathyfullarton8126]

My question does not relate directly to the topic of this video, but I'm hoping you can answer it for me. Why do patients receiving radiation for breast cancer have to remove their clothing during the actual treatment? Patients receive xrays ( chest xrays, CT scans etc) and can wear a Johnny shirt. But when receiving radiation, it must be removed. Radiation would be stronger, I'm assuming, so why must a woman's modesty and dignity have to be sacrificed in order to receive treatment? I have never heard an explanation for this and would appreciate a reply if possible. Thank you

[@yerbba]

We love that you used the word "dignity," which is one of our core values. (See our video on dignity here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hH6rlpJ3ZrOgprs People are typically asked to remove clothing covering the treatment area for radiation therapy for several reasons: 1. Precise targeting--radiation therapy requires extremely precise targeting of the affected area. Clothing can interfere with the accurate delivery of radiation to the tumor site. 2. Skin marking: Radiation oncologists often make small marks on the skin to ensure the radiation beam is directed to the exact same spot for each treatment session. Clothing would cover these essential markings. 3. Avoiding interference: Some fabrics, especially those containing metal (like zippers or underwire), can interfere with the radiation beam or potentially cause skin irritation when exposed to radiation. 4. Consistent setup: Having patients remove clothing in the treatment area ensures a consistent setup for each session, which is crucial for the accuracy and effectiveness of the therapy. 5. Dosage accuracy: Clothing can potentially affect the radiation dose reaching the target area, so removing it ensures the prescribed dose is delivered accurately. Patients are typically provided with a gown or other appropriate covering to maintain comfort and modesty while allowing access to the treatment area. Most radiation therapy teams prioritize patient dignity and comfort while ensuring the treatment is delivered as effectively and safely as possible. If you feel you are being exposed for longer than necessary, let your team know. Some people have a higher tolerance for being laid out uncovered, and people who are not as comfortable should be given as much support to maintain their own comfort.

[@tracydikeman8129]

I would like to tell all women who have had radiation to the breast area that you should have a lung scan once a year . Unfortunately you are now more suseptible to lung cancer due to the radiation. I get a low dose scan every year it only takes a few minutes.

[@yerbba]

The volume of the lung exposed to radiation therapy is extremely small. Lung scans should be done for people who have been smokers, however. There is no evidence that lung scans are needed after breast radiation therapy. But there is a huge gap in the number of smokers (previous or current) who qualify for a scan to identify early lung cancers.

[@yolandacarswell7750]

What are the symptoms of potential lung cancer after radiation? How soon can you feel the symptoms?

[@maryforstercoull9962]

My whole body aches and not my breast cannot cope what can I take. T3 and ibuprofen do take the pain away I want to die

[@yerbba]

We're so sorry you’re feeling this way-it sounds like the pain is overwhelming. Please reach out to your medical team as soon as possible for better pain management. It’s important they know how severe this is so they can adjust your treatment and provide the right support. You don’t have to cope with this pain alone, and there are options that can help.