- Feeling tired or lethargic throughout the day
- Exhaustion (this feeling lasts longer than being tired, is more intense, and isn't relieved by rest).
- Reduced energy
- Reduced motivation
- Stress
- Inability to concentrate
- Brain fog (mental fatigue)
- Pain
- Short term memory problems
- Nausea
- Mild to moderate fatigue.
- Skin irritation, such as itchiness, redness, peeling or blistering, similar to what you might experience with a sunburn.
- Breast swelling.
What causes breast pain after radiation therapy?
radiation therapy after surgery chemotherapy after surgery; Treatment side effects, including pain, are a problem for many women diagnosed with breast cancer. There are a number of reasons why someone might have continuing pain after surgery, including unavoidable tissue and nerve damage when the cancer and any lymph nodes are removed.
What happens to breast tissue after radiation?
Side effects of radiotherapy
- Skin reactions. Radiotherapy can cause skin reactions. ...
- Swelling of the breast. Your breast or chest area may appear swollen and feel uncomfortable. ...
- Pain in the breast or chest area. ...
- Hair loss in the armpit. ...
- Sore throat. ...
- Tiredness and fatigue. ...
- Lymphoedema. ...
- Change in breast shape, size and colour. ...
- Tenderness over the ribs. ...
- Late side effects. ...
What are the side effects of radiation treatment?
With that said, some common side effects of radiation therapy for lung cancer include:
- General weakness and fatigue
- Dry, red, itchy or peeling skin
- Shortness of breath
- Swallowing difficulties
- Sore throat
- Shoulder stiffness
- Radiation pneumonitis (coughing, fever and a sensation of fullness in the chest that can occur several weeks or months after radiation therapy)
- Radiation fibrosis (lung scarring)
What are the side effects of breast radiation therapy?
The main short-term side effects of external beam radiation therapy to the breast are:
- Swelling in the breast
- Skin changes in the treated area similar to a sunburn (redness, skin peeling, darkening of the skin)
- Fatigue
How long does it take to heal from breast radiation?
Most skin changes get better within a few months. Changes to the breast tissue usually go away in 6 to 12 months, but it can take longer.
How will I feel after radiation for breast cancer?
Fatigue is common during radiation therapy and may last for several weeks after treatment ends. Fatigue is mainly a short-term problem, but for some, it can persist [11-12]. You may feel like you don't have any energy and may feel tired all of the time. Resting may not help.
How long does it take to feel normal after radiation?
Most side effects go away within 1–2 months after you have finished radiation therapy.
How long are you tired after radiation for breast cancer?
Radiation can give you fatigue that gets worse over time (called cumulative fatigue). It usually lasts 3 to 4 weeks after your treatment stops, but it can continue for up to 3 months. Hormone therapy deprives the body of estrogen, and that can lead to fatigue that may last throughout your treatment or longer.
What does radiation fatigue feel like?
Feeling very tired and lacking energy (fatigue) for day-to-day activities is the most common side effect of radiation therapy to any area of the body. During treatment, your body uses a lot of energy dealing with the effects of radiation on normal cells.
What is the most common acute side effect of radiation treatment?
Fatigue is the most common acute side effect of radiation therapy. It is believed to be caused by the large amount of energy that is used by the body to heal itself in response to radiation therapy. Most people begin to feel fatigued about 2 weeks after radiation treatments begin.
What should I avoid after radiation?
Avoid raw vegetables and fruits, and other hard, dry foods such as chips or pretzels. It's also best to avoid salty, spicy or acidic foods if you are experiencing these symptoms. Your care team can recommend nutrient-based oral care solutions if you are experiencing mucositis or mouth sores caused by cancer treatment.
What are the worst side effects of radiotherapy?
Treatment areas and possible side effectsPart of the body being treatedPossible side effectsBrainFatigue Hair loss Memory or concentration problems Nausea and vomiting Skin changes Headache Blurry visionBreastFatigue Hair loss Skin changes Swelling (edema) Tenderness5 more rows•Jan 11, 2022
What are 5 harmful effects of radiation?
Here are a few common health effects or harmful effects of radiation on the human body.Hair. Loss of hair fall occurs when exposure to radiation is higher than 200 rems.Heart and Brain. Intense exposure to radiation from 1000 to 5000 rems will affect the functioning of the heart. ... Thyroid. ... Blood System. ... Reproductive Tract.
Does breast cancer radiation weaken your immune system?
Certain cancer treatments (such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, stem cell or bone marrow transplant, or steroids) or the cancer itself can suppress or weaken the immune system. These treatments can lower the number of white blood cells (WBCs) and other immune system cells.
Does radiation make you weak?
Most people start to feel tired after a few weeks of radiation therapy. This happens because radiation treatments destroy some healthy cells as well as the cancer cells. Fatigue usually gets worse as treatment goes on. Stress from being sick and daily trips for treatment can make fatigue worse.
What happens to your breast after radiation?
Sometimes after radiotherapy, the breast may be red and swollen. This usually goes back to normal over a few weeks or months. Some women develop a hardening or thickening of the breast tissue after radiotherapy. This is called fibrosis.
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Brain
People with brain tumors often get stereotactic radiosurgery (radiation given in one large dose) if the cancer is in only one or a few sites in the...
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Head Or Neck
People who get radiation to the head and neck might have side effects such as: 1. Soreness (or even open sores) in the mouth or throat 2. Dry mouth...
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Breast
If you have radiation to the breast, it can affect your heart or lungs as well causing other side effects.
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Chest
Radiation treatment to the chest may cause side effects such as: 1. Sore throat 2. Swallowing problems 3. Loss of appetite 4. Cough 5. Shortness of...
If You’Re Getting Radiation Therapy to The Abdomen (Belly)
If you are getting radiation to your stomach or some part of the abdomen (belly), you may have side effects such as: 1. Nausea 2. Vomiting 3. Belly...
If You’Re Having Radiation Therapy to The Pelvis
Radiation therapy to the pelvis (for example, as treatment for bladder, ovarian, or prostate cancer) can cause side effects such as: 1. Bladder pro...
What are the side effects of radiation on breast?
The main short-term side effects of external beam radiation therapy to the breast are: Swelling in the breast. Skin changes in the treated area similar to a sunburn (redness, skin peeling, darkening of the skin) Fatigue.
How long does radiation therapy last on breast?
Another option is hypofractionated radiation therapy where the radiation is also given to the whole breast, but in larger daily doses (Monday through Friday) using fewer treatments (typically for only 3 to 4 weeks).
How is brachytherapy done for breast cancer?
Intracavitary brachytherapy: This is the most common type of brachytherapy for women with breast cancer. A device is put into the space left from BCS and is left there until treatment is complete. There are several different devices available, most of which require surgical training for proper placement. They all go into the breast as a small catheter (tube). The end of the device inside the breast is then expanded like a balloon so that it stays securely in place for the entire treatment. The other end of the catheter sticks out of the breast. For each treatment, one or more sources of radiation (often pellets) are placed down through the tube and into the device for a short time and then removed. Treatments are typically given twice a day for 5 days as an outpatient. After the last treatment, the device is deflated and removed.
What is intensity modulated radiotherapy?
Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT): IMRT is like 3D-CRT, but it also changes the strength of some of the beams in certain areas. This gets stronger doses to certain parts of the tumor bed and helps lessen damage to nearby normal body tissues. Brachytherapy: See brachytherapy below.
What is APBI in breast cancer?
In select women, some doctors are using accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) to give larger doses over a shorter time to only one part of the breast compared to the entire breast. Since more research is needed to know if these newer methods will have the same long-term results as standard radiation, not all doctors use them. There are several different types of accelerated partial breast irradiation:
How long does it take for radiation to be done after surgery?
If you will need external radiation therapy after surgery, it is usually not started until your surgery site has healed, which often takes a month or longer . If you are getting chemotherapy as well, radiation treatments are usually delayed until chemotherapy is complete.
How long does it take for breast cancer to go away?
Changes to the breast tissue usually go away in 6 to 12 months, but it can take longer. External beam radiation therapy can also cause side effects later on: Some women may find that radiation therapy causes the breast to become smaller and firmer. Radiation may affect your options for breast reconstruction later on.
What is radiation after a lumpectomy?
Adding radiation after a lumpectomy reduces the risk that cancer will return in the affected breast. Lumpectomy combined with radiation therapy is often referred to as breast conservation therapy. This type of treatment is as effective as having all the breast tissue removed (mastectomy).
What is radiation therapy for breast cancer?
Radiation therapy for breast cancer uses high-energy X-rays, protons or other particles to kill cancer cells. Rapidly growing cells, such as cancer cells, are more susceptible to the effects of radiation therapy than are normal cells. The X-rays or particles are painless and invisible.
What is the most common type of radiation after a lumpectomy?
One of the most common types of radiation therapy after a lumpectomy is external beam radiation of the whole breast (whole-breast irradiation). Radiation to part of the breast. Radiation therapy to part of the breast (partial-breast irradiation) may be an option for some early-stage breast cancers.
What is the best treatment for breast cancer after lumpectomy?
Radiation after lumpectomy. If you're having an operation to remove the breast cancer and leave the remaining breast tissue intact (lumpectomy or breast-conserving surgery), your doctor may recommend radiation after your procedure to kill any cancer cells that might remain.
What is the procedure to remove breast cancer?
Internal radiation (brachytherapy). After you have surgery to remove the cancer, your doctor temporarily places a radiation-delivery device in your breast in the area where the cancer once was. A radioactive source is placed into the device for short periods of time over the course of your treatment.
How to reduce the risk of breast cancer after surgery?
Radiation therapy is an effective way to reduce your risk of breast cancer recurring after surgery. In addition, it is commonly used to ease the symptoms caused by cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic breast cancer).
What is the treatment for breast cancer?
Radiation therapy. Radiation therapy. External beam radiation uses high-powered beams of energy to kill cancer cells. Beams of radiation are precisely aimed at the cancer using a machine that moves around your body. Radiation therapy for breast cancer uses high-energy X-rays, protons or other particles to kill cancer cells.
What to expect when getting radiation therapy?
What to Expect When Having Radiation Therapy. It is normal to feel worried or overwhelmed when you learn that you will need radiation therapy. However, learning more about this type of cancer treatment may help you feel more prepared and comfortable.
How long does radiation therapy last?
It is the most common radiation therapy treatment for cancer. Each session is quick, lasting about 15 minutes. Radiation does not hurt, sting, or burn when it enters the body.
What is simulation in radiation therapy?
Simulating and planning treatment. Your first radiation therapy session is a simulation. This means it is a practice run without giving radiation therapy. Your team will use imaging scans to identify the tumor location.
Why is it important to be in the same position for radiation?
It is important for your body to be in the same position for each treatment. Your radiation oncology team cares about your comfort. Talk with the team to find a comfortable position that you can be in every time you come in for radiation therapy.
How often should you check for radiation?
During your treatment, your radiation oncologist will check how well it is working. Typically, this will happen at least once a week. If needed, they may adjust your treatment plan.
What is informed consent for radiation?
Giving permission for radiation therapy. If you choose to receive radiation therapy, your health care team will ask you to sign an "informed consent" form. Signing the document means: Your team gave you information about your treatment options. You choose to have radiation therapy.
How long does it take for radiation to go away?
The 2-day break in treatment each week allows your body some time to repair this damage. Some of the effects may not go away until the treatment period is completed. Let the health care professionals if you are experiencing side effects. Read more about the side effects of radiation therapy.
How long after radiation therapy do side effects occur?
Rare long-term side effects. Although rare with modern treatment, the side effects below may occur a few months or years after radiation therapy.
How long does fatigue last after radiation?
Fatigue. Fatigue is common during radiation therapy and may last for several weeks after treatment ends. Fatigue is mainly a short-term problem, but for some, it can persist [ 10-11 ]. You may feel like you don’t have any energy and may feel tired all of the time. Resting may not help.
How to contact Komen for breast cancer?
If you or a loved one needs more information about breast health or breast cancer, call the Komen Breast Care Helpline at 1-877 GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636).
How to treat lymphedema in breast?
The chances of getting lymphedema are greater if your treatment includes both [ 5,15-18 ]: 1 Removal of axillary nodes during breast cancer surgery (the more nodes removed, the greater the risk) 2 Radiation therapy to the axillary or supraclavicular (above the collarbone) lymph nodes
What to do if you have anxiety about radiation?
Your provider may be able to suggest a hospital social worker, patient navigator, psychologist or support group to help ease anxiety related to radiation therapy (or breast cancer).
How long does it take for side effects to go away after radiation?
Once radiation therapy ends, short-term side effects will mostly go away within 2 weeks [ 9 ]. Let your radiation oncologist or nurse know how the sessions are making you feel. They may be able to recommend creams or other interventions ...
Can radiation cause hair loss?
Nausea and hair loss. Nausea is rare with radiation therapy to the breast. You won’t lose the hair on your head. However, you may lose some hair under your arm or on the breast or chest area getting radiation (this may be a concern for some men with breast cancer).
Other Ways Of Giving Radiotherapy
Intraoperative radiotherapy uses low-energy x-rays given from a machine in the operating theatre during breast-conserving surgery.;
How Do I Take Hormonal Therapy
All the hormonal therapy medicines EXCEPT Faslodex and Soltamox are pills that are taken once a day. Most doctors recommend taking hormonal therapy at the same time each day so you remember to take the medication. Hormonal therapy medicines can be taken with or without food.
What To Expect With Internal Radiation
Before you get any internal radiation, youll meet with your radiation oncologist. They will:
What Are The Advantages Of Hypofractionation
The major advantage is convenience because patients can receive the full course of radiation treatment in fewer sessions. With both conventional and hypofractionated radiation, the patient receives radiation five days a week.
Your Role On Your Radiation Therapy Team
Youll have a team of healthcare providers working together to care for you. Youre part of that team, and your role includes:
What Are Potential Side Effects Of Hypofractionation
As with any form of radiation therapy, a common side effect of hypofractionation is some degree of skin irritation, much like a sunburn. Usually, skin irritation flares up during treatment; sometimes, it arises after.
What Can I Expect If I Am Receiving External Beam Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation treatment for cancer is typically administered every day, Monday through Friday, for five to eight weeks. About two weeks after your first radiation therapy appointment when you have the simulation scan, youll begin your treatments.
How long after cancer treatment do side effects show?
Some side effects might not even show up until years after you have finished treatment. Visits with your doctor are a good time for you to ask questions and talk about any changes or problems you notice or concerns you have. However, if you have additional concerns about your cancer, you do not have to wait until your next scheduled visit.
What happens if cancer comes back?
If cancer does return, your treatment options will depend on where it comes back, what treatments you've had before, and your current health and preferences. For more information on how recurrent cancer is treated, see Treatment of Recurrent Breast Cancer .
Why do you need a pelvic exam after breast cancer surgery?
Pelvic exams: If you are taking either of the hormone drugs tamoxifen or toremifene and still have your uterus, you should have pelvic exams every year because these drugs can increase your risk of uterine cancer.
Why aren't breast cancer tests included in follow up?
Other tests: Other tests such as blood tests and imaging tests (like bone scans and chest x-rays) are not a standard part of follow-up because they haven’t been shown to help a woman who's been treated for breast cancer live longer.
How long does breast cancer treatment last?
Almost any cancer treatment can have side effects. Some might only last for a few days or weeks, but others might last a long time.
What does a doctor look for in a woman with cancer?
If the cancer recurrence is confirmed, your doctor may also look for circulating tumor cells in the blood, or measure levels of blood tumor markers such as CA-15-3, CA 27-29, or CEA. The blood levels of tumor markers go up in some women if their cancer recurs or has spread to other parts of the body.
Is breast cancer a risk factor for cervical cancer?
In fact, women who have had breast cancer are at higher risk for certain other cancers. Because of this, it’s important to follow the American Cancer Society guidelines for the early detection of cancer, such as those for colorectal cancer and cervical cancer.
Overview
Why It's Done
- Radiation therapy kills cancer cells. It's often used after surgery to reduce the risk that the cancer will come back. It can also be used to provide relief from pain and other symptoms of advanced breast cancer.
Risks
- Side effects from radiation therapy differ significantly depending on the type of treatment and which tissues are treated. Side effects tend to be most significant toward the end of your radiation treatment. After your sessions are complete, it may be several days or weeks before side effects clear up. Common side effects during treatment may include: 1. Mild to moderate fatigu…
How You Prepare
- Before your radiation treatments, you'll meet with your radiation therapy team, which may include: 1. A radiation oncologist,a doctor who specializes in treating cancer with radiation. Your radiation oncologist determines the appropriate therapy for you, follows your progress and adjusts your treatment, if necessary. 2. A radiation oncology medical physicist and a dosimetrist,who make c…
What You Can Expect
- Radiation therapy usually begins three to eight weeks after surgery unless chemotherapy is planned. When chemotherapy is planned, radiation usually starts three to four weeks after chemotherapy is finished. You will likely have radiation therapy as an outpatient at a hospital or other treatment facility. A common treatment schedule (course) historically has included one ra…
Results
- After you complete radiation therapy, your radiation oncologist or other medical professionals will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress, look for late side effects and check for signs of cancer recurrence. Make a list of questions you want to ask members of your care team. After your radiation therapy is completed, tell your medical professional if you experience: 1. Persiste…
Clinical Trials
- Explore Mayo Clinic studiesof tests and procedures to help prevent, detect, treat or manage conditions.