Hi lynne 

I had a lumpectomy and had radiotherapy in nov 22 five sessions mine was on the left also 

it went well I found the breathing difficult as you have to do the breathing technique if it’s on left side so they changed my plan so I could relax and not do the breathing techniques 

I’ve had no problems at all with hear or anything whatsoever after my sessions 

good luck in what you decide 

Thanks Lara! It's good to hear they tailor the plan to your needs. Have you had any lasting side effects re/ skin changes, look of the breast, fatigue/tiredness?

While I was having it last November , o had a metal taste in mouth for a few days it was minor , the skin colour has changed but nothing drastic just looks tanned on the left breast , I had a few tired days but nothing that put me to bed , I did feel tired for a few weeks after but this was occasional, I worked throughout it all so for me I feel it was worth every minute of it .

but if you decide to have it and can’t do the breathing stop and ask to change it ., and moisturise moisturise all day every hour or so I had no burns no scars absolutely nothing but that moisturiser drive me mad in the end lol 

Lol thanks for the tip! My last question to you: Are you on tamoxifen? (I'm 43 and dcis is hormone++)

Hello lynbakersea and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear you are currently undergoing treatment and have some concerns about radiotherapy.

There is information about the common side effects from radiotherapy here and a section about how radiotherapy can affect the heart in particular here.

Whilst radiotherapy can affect the heart this is rare due to radiotherapy being much more accurate these days causing little or no damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The radiology staff also ask patients to hold their breath at several points when the radiotherapy is being given to reduce these risks as well. 

Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Best wishes,

Naomi

Thank you for sharing your experience Lara xxx

Thanks Naomi :) 

Lyn 

no problem, I’m here can I just say the brands of tamoxifen major a huge difference to me I won’t accept any other than the tilomed brand xx 

Thanks for the tip. Are you on 20mg or 5mg?