Cancer Research UK main site
  • Replies 3 replies
  • Views 1593 views
  • Users 0 members are here

Eye holes in a radiation mask?

HenW
Offline

Hi

I've been to have my mask fitted today and I'm very claustrophobic. I thought because the mask has holes I would be ok. However, no one said that I wouldn't be able to have my eyes open and I really struggled with that. In fact I didn't manage to get through the CT scan.

I asked if I could have eye holes cut out and they said no. Said that the accuracy wouldn't be a good. However I've been researching this and I can't see anything that says this is the case as long as the whole mask is tight. 

I'm having the right side of my face and neck treated.

Having my eyes open well make a big difference to my being able to get through the treatment.

Is this reasonable to ask for?

Thank you

Parents
  • Offline

    Hi HenW

    I had radiotherapy on my neck recently with a mask.

    What really helped me is visualising one of my favourite times I had on holiday. 

    I literally walked slowly through the scene, breathing in the air, looking at the sun, turning around (in my mind) to see the whole view around me. It was a real memory , which 8 think is important, because you can perfect what you see. 

    I found it very peaceful.   The more you practice the easier it gets and totally transports you out from what is going on.  And perfect when your eyes are closed.

    It can become your favourite place to go when things get really tough.

    Best of luck with the RT.

Reply
  • Offline

    Hi HenW

    I had radiotherapy on my neck recently with a mask.

    What really helped me is visualising one of my favourite times I had on holiday. 

    I literally walked slowly through the scene, breathing in the air, looking at the sun, turning around (in my mind) to see the whole view around me. It was a real memory , which 8 think is important, because you can perfect what you see. 

    I found it very peaceful.   The more you practice the easier it gets and totally transports you out from what is going on.  And perfect when your eyes are closed.

    It can become your favourite place to go when things get really tough.

    Best of luck with the RT.

Children
No Data

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.