Still unsure pain's & radiation

Radiotherapy still on offer after left lumpectomy. Still feel small sharp pains 4 mths after surgery. Radiographers said could get worse after radiation & referred back to oncologist. I had too many questions for them. I had been advised to inform them of my fears as I have 1 whole lung on side to be treated, fear if damaged don't want to drag around an O2 cylinder. All points to me refusing radiotherapy & hope the letrazole can prevent cancer returning. Anyone in similar situation to say how they are doing.

  • I'm sorry the radiologists weren't able to answers all your questions Pipestril. This must be very frustrating but hopefully the oncologist will be able to do so when you see them next.

    Making decisions about treatment is always difficult but I'm sure whatever you decide to do, will be the right choice for you.

    Hopefully some of our members who have found themselves in a similar situation will let you know how they're getting on soon but if you'd like to discuss any of this with one of our cancer nurses in the meantime, you can do so on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi pipestril,

    Like you I have some concerns about having radiotherapy, and the side effects..

    I was diagnosed back in September 2022 with Her 2 positive stage 3 and have had chemo, immunotherapy treatment and a mastectomy and sentinel lymph node removal last month, which have come back clear. 

    Today I was told by my consultant I will need 15 sessions of radiotherapy as a treatment to prevent reaccurance and to have 3 weekly injections of herceptin for a year.

    It seems a hell of a lot treatment wise, and I'm wondering if it's over kill?

    I just don't know what to do.. 

    Any advice out there..