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5 sessions of radiotherapy - side effects

Bewildered21
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I am about to start 5 sessions of radiotherapy lasting one week.  This is for breast cancer which was under my left breast and in the right quadrant.  I did not finish my chemotherapy as docetaxel put me in hospital for over three weeks with a very severe reaction.  Having been fairly positive about my treatment until docetaxel I feel scared now because of where the cancer was and the effect of radiotherphy on my heart and lung.  The consultant said that the sessions should not cause a problem and that many people work throughout this part of their treatment.  When I went to the hospital the radiographer said that I will be extremely tired afterward and should not plan to do anything for about 4 weeks.  I do not know who is giving me correct information.  So if there is anyone else who has had five sessions of radiotheraphy I would really like to know what their experience was like.  (I know we are all different but it would be good to hear other people's experiences.). Alos has anyone had a cancer removed from a similar position and did it cause a problem?  Thank you (Sorry this post is so long.)

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    I'm also having 5 sessions of radiotherapy I go to be measured on Wednesday like you I'm apprehensive but my friend and also a neighbour have been through this and were ok so fingers we will be the same let us know how you get on 

    Good luck

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    Hello Bewildered21,

    Just to say my cancer was in my left breast and I too worried about the risk to my heart. Anyway I was shown how to hold my breath through the treatment itself (for about 10 seconds I think) which apparently moves the heart away from the radiation. 

    I had 15 sessions though, so not the same as you have had. Anyway the oncologist recently told me that my heart isn't that likely to be damaged. He did give me a % figure as they seem to on everything (!) but the risk was low. Not sure if that's across the board but it might be a good question to ask your oncologist. 

    Regarding tiredness, I can't say the treatment affected me that badly. I was extra tired on one day mid-way through but apart from that I was fine really. 
     

    I wish you well.  
    Kebbs.  
     

  • Offline in reply to kebb

    Thank you Kebb for your reassuring post.  I feel that I am being ridiculous about this as I was very positive until the chemo with doxetaxel.  I never want to be that ill again.  I will hope for the best.  I was not given any guidance on the breath holding so just tried to do it.  You have reassured me for which I am grateful.

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