Melanin & Pink Ribbons

Radiation is used to treat breast cancer. There are two forms of radiation used as a treatment. The first form is external, and it is a beam of light targeted to the breast tissue where the cancer is hiding. You can’t see the beam with your eyes nor feel it on the surface of your skin. However, the side effects can loom large, and it’s important to know them and prepare to combat them. As with any treatment it is best to inform your medical team and take direction from them. Side effects include:

Sunburn-like skin irritation

Dry, itchy tender skin

Fatigue

Redness

Swelling

Skin peeling

Nausea

The second form of radiation is known as brachytherapy. In its most simple form, it is pellets/radioactive seeds that are inserted into a catheter placed in the breast tissue. The pellets sit for 10-20 minutes and then are removed until the next treatment. Side effects for this type of radiation are:

Redness

Breast pain

Infection

Fatty tissue damage

Fluid collection in breast

Weakness/fractures in the rib cage

Generally, radiation can be overwhelming, and getting control of the symptoms can be a challenge but there are things in your control to bring relief. Rest, a balanced diet, staying hydrated, applying lotion and cream to the affected area, wearing loose clothing, and avoiding sun exposure will bring relief. The key is to let your medical team know how you feel so they can help you.  You can overcome these symptoms.

Remember early detection saves lives!!