Really tired from radiation?

Hi all 

I'm on day 17 of 20 days of radiation for breast cancer. I was diagnosed on 15 June and it's now 3 September. Since then I've had surgery and radiation. I've not worked since as my job is incredibly high pressure and I decided I need to focus on myself and healing. I'm now exhausted. And lethargic. I still manage to exercise every day and do bits and bobs. But I am now super tired. I can best describe it as lethargic. I cannot imagine going back to my super high pressure intensive job in a couple of weeks. I heard you can get even more tired after the radiation. And my oncologist is trying to decide whether to take out my ovaries. To force me into menopause and stop producing estrogen. It will also allow me to take more appropriate drugs apparently . All of which could lead to nasty side effects. What should I do? Is this normal? 

  • Hi Jennycan 

    I haven't had my radiotherapy yet it will be December time I have it as currently going through chemo for bc first, I had surgery on April.

    I do know when my mum had radiotherapy she was very tired the more sessions she had so it is normal but does affect everyone different. 

    As per your ovaries that's something you need to discuss with oncologist but also maybe your breast team as they will also be able to advise. 

    Did he say which medication? If its Letrozole or one of those they can cause side effects but not everyone gets them and there is a variety so if one doesn't suit your oncologist will be able to change fir alternative. 

    Hope this helps a bit.

    Louise xx

     

  • Good morning Belllouise

     

    i hope your chemo is going well. It's good to know your mom got really tired. 
    The oncologist thinks letrozode would be best for me but apparently you can only take that after menopause? Which is probably why he wants to force me into menopause . Its weird that I'm not already as I'm 51. 
     

    I should probably stop googling about letrozode side effects and of course menopause side effects because if I believed what I read there is no way I could work in my crazy high pressure long hour job while dealing with the the impact of all that!

    have a great day

    jennycan x

     

  • Morning,

     

    ive only just joined this wonderful forum full of inspirational stories and so much information.

    The only thing I can offer you is not to Google.  You will have the best advice money can buy from the nurses and doctors who will be caring for you.  
     

    I love google, but with something as delicate and individual as Breast Cancer, I honestly believe it will have a negative effect on your well being.  
     

    I hope you get the answers you are looking for 

    best, Anne