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Post radiotherapy

2024
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I have completed the last treatment of radiotherapy for DCIS breast cancer . I’m day 2 and feeling the expected fatigue and shortness of breath. I wasn’t expecting to feel so anxious and pressured to bounce back now the treatment is complete. I know this is due to lack of understanding and my husband doesn’t cope well with the situation anyway but  literally feeling myself drowning at the moment. Is this something that anyone else has been experiencing? 

  • Hello and thank you for your post,

    It's good to know that your radiotherapy has finished.

    Some radiotherapy side effects can last for a few days or weeks after the treatment has finished. However, if you are worried about any symptoms you are having please do get checked out.

    You mention drowning so I am not sure if that is a feeling associated with being short of breath or if emotionally you are feeling overwhelmed.

    If your shortness of breath is worrying you, you could let the radiotherapy department know about this.  You could also, if you are very concerned, contact the NHS on 111 for advice.   

    I think it is normal to feel emotional during and after cancer treatment. It can be a difficult time.  Do mention how you feel to your breast care nurse as she may be able to tell you about support you could access. Also, the hospital may have a drop-in centre where you can access 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.

    Take care,

    Caroline 

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Caroline

    Thank you for your help, I’ll speak with the breast nurse and discuss how I’m feeling for support going forward. 

  • Offline in reply to 2024

    Hi 

    I finished 5 days of treatment a week ago following 2 operations for DCIS. I am trying hard to push through the fatigue that is taking hold but my mood is so low, From diagnosis  I focused on treatment ending and the happiness that would come with it but instead I feel so low, anxious and really tearful. I wonder if this is just a normal feeling when treatment ends. I am so grateful that I am one of the very lucky ones but terrible  that I don’t feel happier! X

  • in reply to JEL1969

    Hi and thank you for your post

    It's good to know that your treatment for breast cancer has finished. 

    It is very common to feel low in mood when you have completed your cancer treatment. This link explains more about your mental health throughout the cancer journey.

    When you have fewer appointments with your cancer nurse or doctor, it can lead to feelings of isolation. It is important to let your breast care nurse know how you feel as she may be able to direct you to available support.  

    Breast Cancer Now also provide support , see the information about what they do on their website  here.

    There maybe a Maggie's centre near you. This is a place to go where you can meet and talk to people who are going through the same experience as you. You can find more information about Maggie's at this link.  Additionally, the hospital may have a drop-in centre where you can access additional support.

    I hope you find this information helpful. 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.

    Yours sincerely,

    Tina

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