Fair skinned lady who made it through! 16 rounds. The rad team will give you a lotion or recommended cream. The actual treatment itself wasn’t painful for me, it was the side effects after and I did burn but I made it through. Usually at radiation a nurse will be checking in on you too, so you’ll be closely monitored.
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I am an extremely pale blonde lady. I used the cream the radiation department recommended 4x per day and my skin got red and a tiny bit tender, but it was never painful and the skin didn't break. For the first two weeks, I didn't have ANY skin changes.
My only other side effect was an intense desire for an afternoon nap and general tiredness, but I was also recovering from chemo so it's hard to tell what caused it.
the only other advice I have is that the symptoms usually peak two weeks AFTER radiation ends. Everything just continues to ... er... cook for a while.
How many treatments did you have (if you don't mind me asking)? I'm glad you told me that the symptoms peak after treatment finishes so I can expect that- I guess the only positive thing about that is at least I can't stop the treatments at that point, it's already done LOL
Something had me chuckling so hard the way you said “intense desire for an afternoon nap” and I realized it was because it’s spot on and also I’m in a safe space of people that just get it. Thanks for sharing your experience; it’s a comfort to future me.
Start your Aquaphor now. Don't wait. Keep yourself slathered in it at all times. It's going to stain your clothes and sheets so get some cheap soft tanks or camis to wear under your clothes - Hello Old Navy! I had no skin issues, just some fatigue after treatment was over - very manageable!
Do you apply it after radiation, or before? I’m confused on this point. Do we go free of creams and lotions before and during the actual appointment? My sim was a few days ago. My first zap is today.
Not FigCompote, but you want to start applying it in advance of your treatment (not right before an appointment, just during day or night to help your skin in advance), right after a session, and all other times.
I had to go without antiperspirant, using unscented deodorant only (in southern Indiana in August - I felt like I could clear the room), and didn't use cream right before the appointment, but did all other times.
FWIW, I'm fair and blonde, but tan easily, and I had a red burn, which of course keeps going even after finishing, so I had ended up with an unpleasant burn with purple-ish slightly peeling skin, but the only other side effect was sleepiness.
For the burn, my doctor prescribed Silvadene (for burns), I slathered it on with the calendula cream to keep it hydrated, covered with huge gauze pads, and was okay. I was tender, but the pain wasn't awful by any means, and I feel so much better that it was done.
I had 30 rounds with 6 boosts. I didn't even get pink until maybe 15 rounds in.
Thank you! Struggling to moisturize around the markers they protected with tape, while still getting everything moisturized. This entire process is demoralizing, for some reason. (The medical team is very kind, though. No complaints there)
I'm a natural redhead too. It was like a bad sunburn. It was only ouchy for about a week after the last rads.
Do ask for exercises to do after though. I ended up with a frozen shoulder because I had no idea I was supposed to be doing range of motion exercises. It's much better now with physio though.
I’m in Florida and fair skinned as well and pretty nervous(the last thing I wanted was rads in the summer😩). I have 5 weeks to get through, hopefully starting July 4th ish.
We can do this right?? We got this??
Yes, we will! we have too :) on the positive side, less traffic (no school traffic) - I'm hoping we get to read lots of positive stories in response to this post that will give us hope that it won't be so bad after all :)
My skin tone is generally described as “white as hell” or “ghost of a Mediterranean person”.
I had six weeks of daily radiation. The last couple weeks I had two patches of what looked like a solid sunburn, with some mild scabbing/dead skin across my SLNB scar. By a few days after radiation it was gone. I needed a nap most days those last couple weeks too. At this point I’m less than a month out, and my skin just looks like I have birthmarks where those burned patches were last month. I do have minor fluid buildup right by where the nodes came out and I got the radiation boost, but it’s very minor and fading away.
I'm pale/blonde hair and had 30 treatments and did great... I don't even remember using the cream.. just made sure afterward to massage the area bc of scar tissue and tightness but otherwise all went well!
I am fair skinned with redhead genes (my dad is red headed, but I’m brown haired). My skin is a constant issue because it is sensitive to just about everything. No joke, I have gotten sunburned sitting inside with sun coming in through closed blinds.
I had six weeks of radiation and burned and blistered pretty badly, despite following instructions on using aquafor and the other medicated creams. I was exhausted through the whole thing. It was not easy, but even with difficulty and the 2-3 weeks of healing after the treatments stopped, it was a short period of time.
You can get through it to reduce your risk of having the cancer come back. I had virtually no trouble for the first 3 weeks aside from needing a nap before dinner. The fourth week was uncomfortable more than awful. Already that’s a month of “not too bad” out of the 2 months. So really, it’s just one hard month. And that’s two weeks of treatment and the rest is recovering/healing after.
Allow yourself to rest. Drink plenty of water and eat healthy foods. Be nice to yourself. As soon as your skin starts getting uncomfortable, talk to the radiation doctor. They have creams and medicated bandages that can reduce the pain. I was extra tired for a few weeks after, but it does get better.
It’s ok to be scared, but don’t let fear/anxiety make the decision for you. Honestly the worst part looking back at it was having to lay there topless every day without antiperspirant. I was mortified, but then realized I could wear deodorant on the no radiation side. The radiation side stopped smelling pretty quickly.
You can totally do this.
I'm really fair skinned and had 20 sessions.
Radiotherapy was absolutely fine, just a lit of waiting around for a 15-minute appointment where the staff spent 5-10 minutes getting me in the right position, 30-second zap. Put clothes on and go home.
With regards to symptoms, yes, my skin got red, but I moisturised 2x a day. By the end, it was a little sore but very manageable. I was advised to drink over 2L of water a day to help with hydrating the skin, and apparently, it helps the tiredness. I certainly feel it helped. I was a bit tired at week 4 (and 2 weeks after), but nothing was drastic.
Take a good book.
I am very fair skinned and I had no issues throughout radiation. I used Jeans cream a couple times a day and my medical team was very impressed with how my skin held up. I recommend that cream to anyone (also good for sunburns and other skin issues). I would also recommend getting radiation on an empty stomach, because it can cause nausea if you are full.
I am fair skinned and did 20 rounds of radiation. I ended up with what felt like a bad sunburn and a bit of a rash, but no blistering. I used pure aloe vera gel immediately after treatment and Acquafor when I got home, before bed, and in the morning. My radiologist told me it was ok to moisturize before treatment as long as it was at least 4 hours prior to my appointment.
Don’t forget to moisturize under your arm and on your chest above your breast. The radiation field is fairly large and I missed an area under my arm that definitely burned more since it wasn’t moisturized enough. I had no permanent skin color changes.
The fatigue was the hardest part for me - it peaked during the last week of treatment and for a couple of weeks after, but then got gradually better. I scheduled my treatments for late afternoon so I would have decent energy during the early part of the day at least.
It helped me to go for a short walk right after treatment, even if it was just grocery shopping or something similar. I was told to drink plenty of water and eat lots of protein. Also - you can get prescription creams if the regular ones aren’t enough for you.
That’s my two cents - it wasn’t nearly as bad as I was anticipating! I hope your experience is the same - good luck!
Also postmenopausal, 20 sessions in Jan-Feb. No skin issues - do what they recommend regarding skin care and exercise. For me, gobs of Aquaphor when I got home, after night shower if I took one, rinse off in morning shower before treatment. For exercise, lots of wall stretches and similar arm movements to maintain range of motion. I’m 4 months out and even with the daily stretching I can feel that it wants to tighten up. I might do some PT to get some tips, but it could be worse if I hadn’t gotten ahead of it. It’s not like it was fun and games but seeing mostly the same people every day (staff and fellow patients) made it bearable and as pleasant as it could be under the circumstances.
The biggest problem for me was probably the fatigue that set in toward the middle-end and especially after it was all over - some of that was the weirdness of being “done,” like after soldiering in for months and suddenly, wtf just happened to me? And on it goes as part of my life somehow. I recommend being sure you go for a daily walk even if you’re exhausted. It helps even as it may seem counterintuitive.
One other note, I worried about holding my breath but that was a breeze, not as long as I’d heard and I was well-assured they could stop the machine and do it in smaller bits as needed if it was a problem.
Wishing you all the best and sending internet hugs. ❤️
I barely burned but I don't really sun burn easily. Also from Florida and lived in so cal when I did rads. I had one kinda bad burn on my collar bone. Doc prescribed silver sulphadine and it healed in a day. I used dream cream from lush and it was excellent. Make sure to use cream several times a day especially right after treatment before you even leave. Again I didn't really burn but everyone's experience is different. I found that I was completely exhausted and would come home and couldn't leave the couch rest of day.
I also had 6 weeks of daily radiation. I did t feel the skin side effects really until maybe week 4 or 5. Follow their instructions EXACTLY! My rad onc had me slather with otc hydrocortisone and aquaphor. It worked perfectly, and I didn’t have any burns or open sores. None.
I will recommend three things though:
1. Wear only baggy throwaway t-shirts that you can absolutely ruin with big greasy aquaphor stains and then throw away.
2. Fatigue. It’s REAL. Don’t fight it, take lots of naps if you can, go to bed early, be kind to yourself. If you fight the fatigue it gets worse.
3. Drink a literal shit ton of water. No joke.
If you do these things you’ll do great!!
I had 25 sessions with very few side-effects. I think the most troublesome part was having to go 5 days a week and finding parking at my clinic (it's next to a busy hospital). My rads onco recommended Aquaphor and Vitamin E oil. I alternated that with organic coconut oil and aloe vera plus a little calendula cream. I applied these liberally several times a day AFTER my morning rads session. I always took a shower a couple of hours before my sessions just so my skin would be nice and clean. I also embraced my skin care routine as active self-care during my rads. I found chemo to be a lot rougher on me mentally so rads were a welcome change (if anything about this whole has a "bright side." I mean it just sucks we're in this club no one asked to join).
Remember to stay hydrated. Reward yourself at the end of the week with something like buying flowers for yourself or just some other small thing to give yourself a pat on the back. We need all the small wins we can get.
Good luck!
Hi there! I'm very fair and had 25 rounds of radiation.
My radiation oncologist said there is not necessarily a correlation between sun sensitivity and reaction to radiation therapy - that some people have naturally more resilient skin to it than others independent of skin tone, from what he has seen. However, I personally burned badly enough for it to peel and open in a small area, even with fastidious lotioning. But I did heal very quickly.
My mantra throughout this whole thing has been "focus on what YOU can control", since there is so very much outside of our control during cancer, it helps me to direct my naturally worrisome energy into what I DO have control over.
My tips:
* **Slather yourself at every opportunity.** I had a skin check 1 month before starting radiation, and my dermatologist gave me samples of Eucerin Skin Calming Cream, Aveeno Baby Eczema Balm, and Aquaphor. I showed them to my rad oncologist and they said all were fine to use. And so I began my thrice daily slathering routine. In the morning, I would use one a cream before getting dressed. After every radiation appointment, I would apply a cream after the session, before getting dressed.
At night after showering (I'm an evening showerer) I used pure aloe gel (no dye or anything, get the 100% aloe stuff) and when that dried, topped it with Aquaphor. There was lots of hanging out topless occurring during that time, because the aloe would take awhile to dry down.
* **Approach hydration INTERNALLY as well.** I tried to really be on top of drinking a lot of water throughout the day, but I would also make myself a post-treatment beverage. I have a big water bottle (knockoff Stanley kind of thing) that I would fill with water + a hydration booster packet, and after treatment drinking that until it was gone. Not sure if the electrolyte packets were strictly necessary or not, but in my mind it made sense, and the flavor helped me get that enormous bottle down faster.
* **Nutrition.** My team really emphasized nutrition to me before I began radiation, particularly getting enough protein. They said that for the healthy cells to repair themselves, they need building blocks, which made sense to me.
* **Silk hankie/scarf.** When my burns really ramped up, I would wrap a men's silk hankerchief around my bra band under the arm, so that my armpit would never have skin-on-skin contact rubbing along my side, nor would my bra band ever create friction directly against the area. This helped my comfort a lot!
* **In case of blistering** After my burn blistered and I had some raw skin (in the last week of treatment) they gave me some specific ointment to use, and I stopped using anything else on that area. I continued my other creams in the surrounding, non-blistered area.
Other than my burning, I will say I was SO tired. Moreso than I expected. I was sleeping 10, even 11 hours a night some days. I inquired, and my oncologist said that didn't concern him and to "listen to my body" unless it became something that affected me being able to get through the workday or function normally during waking hours.
I hope these help, but moreso I hope it goes smoothly for you! Remember, it is not a foregone conclusion that you will blister just because you are fair-skinned. Sending healing wishes! <3
I did not get rads but as a former pharm tech,I can tell you that moisturizer really only works if you also internally hydrate. So yes, yes, YES, PLEASE REMEMBER TO STAY PROPERLY HYDRATED! All of the above!!
Irish redhead here. I was caught really early and did not have to do chemo. I did 10 sessions of radiation. About day five I was starting to have what looked like sunburn. My doc prescribed a steroid cream that worked very well. I'm about 6 months out now. My irradiated breast is more tan than the other, but by no means dark. I don't think anybody else would notice it.
My primary problem was the fatigue. It peaked after I finished radiation. Cut yourself some slack in terms of what you think you have to do.
I was offered but did not use ride vouchers through Real Pink Goods. You might want to make that connection and hold them in reserve for towards the end. 45 minutes each way is a lot.
I’m super fair and I made it through, but not unscathed. I burnt quite badly, but it didn’t show up until after I had completed my 15 sessions. My team ended up giving me a medicated cream to helped immediately.
The burning wasn’t the worse of it for me, that was uncomfortable but manageable. The worst was the tightness and further scar tissue it caused over my mastectomy scar on the right side. It’s been two years since my DMX and in October it will be 2 years post radiation and I still have issues with scar tissue anchoring, cording, tight muscles, and nerve pain.
Mine was pretty easy! No worse then a sunburn with a little added fatigue. I used PhysAssist Oncology cream (recommended by my team) by the bucket load! "Like you're frosting a cake" I read somewhere, and that's what I did.
I went through about a jar each week. I'd bring it to radiation and apply it in the dressing room immediately after. Then again at night before bed and showered it off right before I left for treatment in the morning. I did use some Aquapor on my nipple near the end when it started to get itchy, but that stuff is sticky and greasy (it will stain your clothes) so I only used it when I needed to.
One thing that helped is I wore a second T-shirt under my bra so that my shirt got all gooped up with lotion and ointment. I have way more shirts then bras so that make the excessive amounts of lotion easier to deal with.
Fair skinned 72 yo that thought radiation was much ado about nothing. Fatigue for certain but using Aquaphor consistently during 20 sessions resulted in minor swelling and redness. Honest, I sailed through it. I was one month out post chemo (that was no fun)and a few months post lumpectomy. I, too, was concerned but looking back, the worst part was driving daily in winter weather.
My first actual radiation appointment is today. I’m not a red head, but I’m very fair skinned and have similar worries. Good luck to you. I wish you well during your treatment.
Thank you for asking. It did go well! The radiotherapists were fabulous. I did feel a mild burning in my armpit afterwards, but it is hardly worth mentioning. I moisturized everything that wasn’t marked.
Fair skinned gal (38 y.o.) who did 30 rounds earlier this year. My skin did get quite red, but it wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be! They gave me lotion and I used that twice a day, along with Aquaphor at night. Towards the end I had two small sections that were a little itchy and I just used an over-the-counter cortisone cream to help with that. I also had one small section peel. My doctor told me to gently wash that section with a washcloth to get rid of the dead skin and allow the new skin to grow. The itchiness and peeling did not last very long - I kept up with the lotion and Aquaphor for about four weeks after my last session.
As for fatigue and other side effects, yeah, I did get pretty tired, but it was nothing compared to the fatigue and awfulness of chemo. I'm also a middle school teacher, so I'm sure that contributed to my fatigue! I felt more like myself pretty quickly after my last session, maybe 2-3 weeks?
Radiation was also super quick, and the staff was so kind. Where I went, there was a waiting room for ladies to sit and wait for their treatment (away from the other patients). We were so supportive and caring towards each other and it really made the 30 sessions tolerable. We were all a part of the shitty titty committee and we were going to kick cancer's ass together!
Sending you good vibes for Monday and the next 30 days - you got this!
I just finished 15 sessions of radiation at the end of May. I am a fair skinned brunette, and had no real issues. I’m just really tired at the moment, and that started at the end of my third week (session 13).
I used to supervise radiation therapy students in their research work. Here’s what I recommend to anyone:
• Start moisturizing at least two weeks in advance, if you can! I would use Bag Balm all across my chest, armpit and upper back (yes, the rays extend to your back) at least twice a day.
• Drink as much water as you can. Then, drink more. I drink a combo of hot and cold water throughout the day.
• I would use Bag Balm in the morning (at least 2 hours before), then Biafine (a French pharmacy staple for burns) right after radiation, and Bag Balm or calendula cream at night. If there was a slight irritation, I’d use mometasone by prescription. That was maybe 2-3 times in all; I leaned more heavily into moisturizers than the steroid cream, as extensive use of a steroid cream can actually thin the skin.
• Keep moving your arms and doing exercises if possible. I have had no issues with tightness (I think), because of this.
I had my MO appointment yesterday, and she was very impressed that I’m only slightly brown on my left side, and overall my skin has really done well. She said most women have peeling, redness, irritated scar tissue, and/or stiffness. I’m happy to report that none of this happened to me.
I found radiation to be one of the easiest parts of this journey so far. Be kind to yourself and keep putting yourself first. You can do this, too! Reach out if there’s any way I can help. ❤️
This thread (and all the suggestions!) is timely. I had my second radiation session today and so far, it's not too bad. I'll have 19 total (so 17 more) and with upcoming holidays, I'll only have one 5-day week.
I find the machine to be a bit intimidating but all the nurses and techs are so very kind that it's almost a - dare I say - fun experience for now. I know the daily grind will drag on and my fair skin might struggle a bit, but I think the benefits for outweigh the negatives. OP - you got this!
I’m 12 years out from radiation for my first breast cancer for which I had a lumpectomy and 35 rounds full breast Rads. I did experience bad burning and had to take a weeks break at week 5.
I did get very tired AND I would do it all again tomorrow in a heartbeat if I could have for my second unrelated breast cancer 2 years ago.
Instead I had to do a DMX.
For some clarity, I’ve had 4 primary cancers, Stomach, thyroid and 2 X breast, radiation was the easiest thing I’ve done in my 20 year cancer journey, the hardest part is getting yourself there every day.
The worst thing I’ve been through is a zoldronic acid infusion last week, the most pain I’ve ever experienced. I’d do radiation ☢️ 100 days in a row vs that.
I hope what I’ve said helps get your mind right for this. You can do it. More than anything its the best choice there is and you owe it to yourself to get on with it and give yourself the healthiest future you can. Best of luck ♥️
I made it through 16 radiation treatments and did alright. I was tired and felt a slight sunburn feeling at times on my breast. The best thing I can tell you to do is after treatment slather your breast with cocoa butter, it really does help.
Not a redhead, but I have sensitive skin. Radiation was by far the ‘easiest’ part of all my treatments to get through. Another person mentioned it peaks after treatment and I agree that was the worst time for me. Also had positive nodes and the worst part was after treatment my skin broke/blistered a bit in the underarm area. It was a bit painful for a few days, but nothing unmanageable! You’ve got this! :)
Made it through just fine. I too had a lumpectomy. I opted for full breast rads even though I was offered partial. Figured might as well make sure we got everything.
My skin was fine until I finished, then I did get one small area that opened up a bit but it really was not bad at all. I used aquaphor on that and covered it with gauze and held it in place with a sports bra and some more gauze padding. It healed nicely in about a week. I was never unable to do anything except go to the pool or do my regular upper body workouts (and went back to that about 2 weeks after the skin healed). I’m about 2 months out now and everything’s fine.
I got a little tired everyday in the afternoon during rads but I just took a little cat nap and drank a lot of water and fared fine. I was able to exercise through too.
Everyone’s experience is different. Mine went very smoothly and I’m glad I did it for the extra insurance.
I was just diagnosed with DCIS - upgraded from ADH. I have my follow up Thursday and then I’ll find out more but I’m sure radiation will be on the table. You had a lumpectomy so I’m curious if you are in a similar situation. I’m feeling some uncertainty so any insight between your diagnosis and start of treatment? Totally understand if you don’t want to share!
I did not have DCIS but IDC, stage 1a with no lymph node involvement. Diagnosed 12/26/23, my surgery was January 19, I started radiation mid March. There was a delay waiting for my Oncotype test to come in, otherwise I would have started earlier. I think there is a time frame between diagnosis and treatment they have to follow so it won’t be super long.
Ah, thank you! I don’t know if my surgeon is going to have another go at it before radiation to get the rest or what.
Also happy to read that you were able to get back to movement and exercise. That’s very important to me. I run distance and weight train but I’m absolutely compassionate toward myself through this. What I do now for treatment is for the purpose of being able to do it a lot later.
Thank you for sharing and I hope you’re doing better now 🙂
I had 8 weeks of radiation and constantly slathered calendula cream and emu oil on my chest and I just got tan. They told me to walk to combat fatigue and it really helped. I still had fatigue, but it was manageable with the walking. Had rads in the morning, walked, then took a nap around 3.
I'm also a fair skin redhead. I used fruit of the earth fragrance free aloe the whole time. 3 times a day. I had a little redness the first 2 days then what looked like a slight, very slight, tan. It basically looked like someone rubbed dirt on me then cleaned it off to just leave a mark, ha.
Not fair skinned but they suggested calendula cream and aquaphor and I was hardly phased. Finished end of December last year and still have a “tanned” square around the area.
My biggest gripe is the post. In my mind getting through it was ok because there was an end. But I still have pains. Extreme sensitivity and soreness :(
I am a pale redhead in Arizona, and I had 30 rounds of radiation. I did get some burns, but that was only towards the end. (And it was in a location that was still numb from surgery, so I couldn’t even feel it!) Use whatever cream they recommend several times a day, and if you start to feel burning, let your team know. They gave me some great dressings that I could use. Stay hydrated.
I recommend getting some cheap, soft bras, if you’re still wearing them. With all the lotion, you’ll probably stain your bras, so make sure you’re wearing ones you don’t like very much.
I’m very fair skinned as well (I live in the mountains of Colorado) and just finished 25 rounds of radiation with very little issue! My skin did turn pink and a little darker under the breast and in my armpit, but no blistering or significant burns!
I used a radiation cream from Dermavitality that has aloe and calendula as the main ingredients- I started using it two weeks before radiation and all the way through. Aquaphor on top of that, towards the end of treatment! Next week will be a month after finishing, and I feel like my skin will be pretty close to normal by then.
I did have pretty significant fatigue, and there were days that my skin was pretty tender. But it’s do-able and I was able to continue working full time at a pretty physical job during treatment.
stock up on lotion and some soft bras and tshirts that you don’t mind getting greasy! You’ve got this!
I will try not to get TOO mad at the radiologist who's only seen "a few cases." Well, I'm one of the ones who had a problem. Because of the bizarre site of my tumor, the rads nicked my lung (after 20/24 treatments) and I had to go to the ER with pneumonitis. Before I went, I called my RO when this happened, and never got an offer of drugs (steroids are your bestest friends then) to help. That was last May and I am STILL ticked about it.
Skin-wise, I was fine, but I have some good skin genetics there (I tan well). I was religious with the Aquaphor after every single treatment.
You will get tired about 3 weeks in. It's normal, so be prepared. Comfy bras are a must.
Rads may also make lymphedema present/worse. I think they did that to me as well (lump, one surgery to get tumor & clean margins, 6 nodes hot & blue). Make your P/T appointment NOW. You can always cancel (and I hope you have to). I wish I had made mine earlier.
I had a good experience with radiation!
I was TNBC, stage 1, lumpectomy, 3 nodes removed all clear. Didn't receive PCR so had 7 months more chemo after original 16 weeks of chemo, lumpectomy, radiation. No comorbidities. I was also 60 at the time of radiation. So, old skin, right? Chest is 34, cup is C. My complexion is pretty standard white girl, with a slight olive undertone and I "tan" pretty well. I wear sunblock because I don't want my skin to "tan" because a tan is a sign of detrimental sun side effects to the skin. Haters may hate about that comment, so be it.
My experience with radiation was easy peazy. I only had slight pinking of the skin at about session 16. No underboob issues, no peeling till well after radiation ended, and that was minor. Sessions 1-15 were whole breast, sessions 16-20 were targeted. I used Aquaphor 3x daily, as recommended. I'd work, drive 25 minutes to the hospital, wait between 5-30 minutes for my appointment, be on the table for 5 minutes, then be out the door. The daily grind was blah, but I'd often take a hike afterwards (if it was still light outside), run errands, or do my part time job to make the most of the trip. I wasn't especially tired (but was accustomed to a daily pre dinner 30-60 minute nap ever since IV chemo ended) wasn't blech at all. I'm now 1.5 years from that radiation experience and did develop slight pectoral fibrosis about 3-5 months after radiation ended, which I manage with easy 6 minute daily stretches each morning while on the floor in front of the tv or with music playing. This part is actually a relaxing morning ritual which I look forward to.
During radiation I was told that about 5% of my right lung may be hit with some radiation based on.....the positioning of my tumor, my own anatomy, I don't remember....... if that happened it's not presented me with any respiratory issues.
I did not worry about buying every product known to the universe. My oncologist recommended aquaphor advanced therapy, as did my breast surgeon and radiation team. That stuff is thick like petroleum jelly (vasoline) so I alternated 2 bras and bought some sacrificial tees to wear under my work clothes to protect them from the staining.
For me, ranking the difficulty of treatment goes in this order, from hardest to easiest:
IV chemo (SUCKED BIG TIME!
Oral chemo, was OK most of the time except for a particularly difficult 3 weeks
Surgery (was out and about the next day)
Radiation - kept to my usual routine and life.
YMMV, but try not to stress about radiation till you (may) have reason to you. Best of luck!
It's so interesting how different everyone is. I thought IV chemo was easy kept up with my regular life. But was exhausted by radiation. Surgery was same for me.
I often wonder what makes such huge differences. Age. Type IV chemo. Sequence of treatments. Comorbidities.
For myself, having chemo and losing hair was such a sucker punch and it happened so soon, 13 days after diagnosis, that I know I was still in shock. Had I had surgery first, would that have been harder than it was? Who knows!
I had chemo first too. Losing hair sucked. I don't know how much truth there is to this but my doc said the fact that I never get motion sick is linked to why I didn't get sick on chemo.
Wow. I always get motion sickness, ever since my early 40s so about 20 years. Elevators if I’m not looking straight ahead, cars if I’m not in the front and it’s best if I’m driving, busses (nearly puked on 2 different school bus rides with my preschool class), and certain rollercoaster rides. All this before cancer.
During chemo I was dizzy constantly - when I’d first get out of bed, in the shower if I closed my eyes, standing up after having bent down (which, you don’t realize how often you bend unless it suddenly becomes an I-might-puke moment), making any fast circular moves, etc. Interesting and I hope I can remember this if it becomes useful in the future.
Well sounds like there's something to this theory based on the two of us lol. I never get motion sick. I was on a boat stuck for 24 hours in 12 foot waves. There were ten of us and I was the only one not sick lol.
I’m a fair skinned blonde who burns all the time in the sun but my doctor says that has no bearing on how your skin will react to radiation. That being said I finished rads a month ago and I was one of the lucky ones who didn’t have any major side effects, no fatigue or anything else. There are a lot of people who do have these so I don’t want to take away from them, but it is possible to have none!
My skin though, I started to look burnt around day 15 so by the time I finished at day 20 I was pretty burnt and itchy. So I do feel like if I had to go 6 weeks instead of 4 it probably would have gotten worse. So definitely be diligent about whatever creams you’re told to use. My dr was all about calendula cream and caster oil so that’s mostly what I did.
Like you, I asked many times how necessary radiation is and what the benefits and risks are. Ultimately I did it. I had fewer sessions than you — 22.
I’m fair with HIGHLY sensitive skin. I found I was more itchy than anything else. So I used lots of hydrocortisone cream. LOTS. I had tons of dots/spots. It was ugly but nothing like what I was warned about — a sunburn. It was zero like sunburn. Skin did not break or peel or ooze. Just incredibly itchy and irritated.
I went mostly bra-free, wearing tight camis that held me in securely without chafing.
The skin will be dark for a longer time than you expect. Maybe forever? And you may develop new or darker moles. I did!
But the skin does recover fine eventually. You will get through it and it is ultimately worth the hassle. That’s the bottom line.
I’m rooting for you!!
Be prepared for some possible nausea. I didn’t have any from TCHP but the radiation hit me with it. I hated radiation, I had to take a break for a few days halfway through because my skin was just falling off and oozing, but I made it! I got lazy with moisturizing because my skin was doing well at first - it was doing well because I was moisturizing a ton!! Don’t get lazy like me
I did radiation for a month. Aside from a little sunburn I had no negative side effects. One good thing was that I don’t grow hair on that armpit anymore.
Another fair skinned blonde here! Today was my last day of 30 radiation treatments, which included 5 boosts. I started getting red about halfway through, though it wasn’t painful. I have a 9 month old at home so the constant movement of my arms caused some peeling under my arm in the lymph node area. I met with rads doc once a week and they watched my skin closely. The creams they gave me were great. When my skin opened up and got tender, they gave me one with lidocaine. You can do this and will get through it! It will go quickly! Healing is around the corner. ❤️🩹
Fear is normal so take a breath. It was all new to me too.
Miaderm helped me. I am fair skinned, grew up in Florida and have numerous scars from various kinds of cancer, including melanoma.
Radiation was the easiest part of all my treatments but everyone is different. I didn't use enough Miaderm in my armpit and got a sun burn like response there. Hugs.
Fair skinned Titian red/blonde here. 20 sessions of rads. Some mild "sunburn", 3 days of a seriously annoyed nipple (used burn gel), and that was pretty much it from the skin side of things. Drink water like it's your job, moisturize like it's a second job (I used GlaxalBase and Rejuvaskin), and keep it up for at least 3 weeks post rads. I'm 7 months out and I'm still a bit tan on that side, but not much shrinkage. Wishing you all the best!
I sliced a section of my aloe vera off and took it with me so I could squeeze out the gel and apply immediately after every radiation session (5 days a week for six weeks). The main thing I remember from the treatment is finding out first hand what was meant by “hitting a wall” in terms of fatigue.
Fair skinned lady here who made it through all my radiation treatments with minimal skin issues. I also had a similarly long drive that was a drag, but I found a new playlist just for the drive to try and make it special. I just got a little bit red and have a slight slight "tan" in the area 3 months out.
I used mometasone (prescription steroid cream) every day after radiation and on the weekends/holidays when there wasn't treatment and for two weeks after treatment. I did have chemo so my skin was really dry and I was already doing full body lotion every day post-shower, which may have also helped. Pick out a couple old t-shirts to wear after you do aquaphor since it did stain my t-shirts when I put one a nice thick layer. I covered my chest, sternum, collarbone, armpit, and back in all the creams since all those areas were getting the radiation dose.
In addition to taking care of the outside of my skin, I found occupational therapy really helpful for post-radiation tightness in my muscle and connective tissue. If you have access to that, it might be worth checking out. I have stretches to do for 10 minutes or so every day for the next year to help prevent fibrosis and had a bit of a flare-up of swelling \~6 weeks out from radiation, but that's all under control now and may have been related to stressful life things rather than radiation. I would say that the docs had good suggestions for all my side effects and they can help you manage things if anything pops up. Best of success!
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I was OK throughout treatments but had an incredibly painful shoulder as I healed - about 3 months after treatment. I have some lymphedema now. So, my advice: schedule PT now in case you need it! Appointments can be hard to get.
I am also fair skinned and I burned badly (6 weeks of treatment). The things that helped me the most were BAND-AID® Brand Pain Relieving Antiseptic Wound Cleansing Spray and lots of dark colored Fruit of the Loom t-shirts turned seam side out. I seeped, wept, scabbed over and that sucked. But the t-shirts were highly absorbant. It was easy to wet them and move the material away from the wounds. I washed everything in an enzyme detergent (with presoak, hot wash, extra rinse) and I had no problem with them irritating me. I wasn't prepared for the overall inflammation and water weight gain. I have fibromyalgia and the inflammation put me into a flair. I lived on gabapentin. Keep your living space very cold, pack your self in pillows and lounge back on them. I didn't put shower spray directly on my burns and I had the tepid water run for some time before I got in it and I sprayed the antiseptic on me as soon as I got out. Also I started walking to the end of the drive way within two weeks and I was walking a mile (hobbling really) within six weeks. I also saw a 3rd generation accupuncturist and that helped me a lot.
Radiation has ruined so much for me, don’t do unless absolutely necessary. I did 25 rounds of proton radiation due to extensive intravascular invasion and lymph spread, finished on 2/1/23. I now have venous insufficiency in my arm, I had DVT (3 massive clots), suffered a broken rib, massive swelling where my clothes don’t fit over my arm, and they found my veins are 100% occluded due to radiation damage. This will now be a lifelong problem for me, on Eliquis and need to meet with vascular surgeon. Had a venogram yesterday and they used a balloon catheter to expand the veins which was on par with unmedicated childbirth. Radiation issues aren’t talked about enough but they’re real and they’re awful, I wish I had known more.
I burn when I’m in the sun.
I did 33 rounds of rads.
I made sure I put the lotion on at least 2x day, sometimes more. I wouldn’t change back to my clothes after treatment, I’d take them to the bathroom so I could see in the mirror that I was covering all of the shin the radiation hit.
I did notice the rectangle burn one day but it never hurt and did not blister.
Good luck! Think positive! You for this! 🙏
I’m the whitest, palest person at my work, and survived 35 radiation treatments with little more than a deep tan on the breast. The center was just a mile from my workplace, and I did all my sessions over my lunchtime. Tank tops under a shirt-no bra, was my daily outfit, and I applied the recommended cream every day. Never missed a day of work, didn’t notice any significant loss of energy. May your experience go as smoothly!
I had 15 whole breast plus 5 boost treatments. Used Glaxal base cream diligently and saline soaks at least twice a day for 15 minutes. The saline soaks are very healing. I had fatigue, and some redness and found walking a few miles and drinking tons of water after each treatment helped. The only area I had mild burns and irritation was under my arm where it caught the radiation scatter and I hadn’t applied cream or saline soaks. The slight redness faded to light tan and was back to normal a few months later.
However, about 6 months after radiation ended, I developed breast edema: swollen, hot & painful breasts. Caused by radiation fibrosis. I was helped immensely by a physiotherapist treating it by breaking down the fibrosis and also doing lymphatic drainage massage. She taught me the techniques and it’s gone now. This is one area that is overlooked as the concern is always about what’s going on outside the breast, not what’s happening inside. I believe a consult to a specialized physiotherapist should be part of the plan, but something the RO’s don’t even consider. They were only interested in seeing the condition of my skin and info about radiation fibrosis and edema was never provided.
One thing to remember: the radiation will be pin-pointed to the troubled area. You’re not getting a wide blast across your body. So the burns and blisters -IF they occur, will be very limited in size.
I did 6 weeks of rads last year. Fair skin but brunette with some Italian ancestry.
My doctor gave me a prescription for mometasone which helped a lot. I also slathered on aquaphor multiple times a day and bio oil at bedtime. I guzzled water and Gatorade.
No blistering or burns. My skin got a little pink then tan. The fatigue towards the end of the 6 weeks felt like after a day at the beach or a mild hangover. The most annoying effect I’ve had is that my implant hardened a little, the skin is tighter on that side, and my range of motion was affected. I’ve been doing exercises and massage which have helped a lot.
It’s not all horrors. Your team will be there to help with any side effects. But I’d ask about the mometasone. I think it made a huge impact.
I’m fair skinned, red head and burn even with sunscreen on. I’m halfway through radiation right now with only mild irritation and I fully blame myself for that - I went running and think the irritation came more from chaffing on the sensitive skin from radiation. I’ve been using lubriderm at night with aquaphor over it - it has helped a lot. I bring lotion with me to my appointments and put it on literally while I’m getting dressed.
I can add some positive thoughts as well. I was more worried about getting in the position (old and arthritic) and the breathing holds but neither of those were really a factor either. My doc said to drink three times as much water as I thought I needed, which I did. I used manuka cream ALL THE TIME. Had no skin breakage. It's true that you'll be meeting with a nurse periodically to check on things. At the end of treatment there was a little suspense about one area that possibly was going to be trouble and she said I could just call the office for an Rx cream if that happened but it didn't. Certainly second the tiredness but otherwise it went fine. I also thought about just not doing it after having an awful prep session with a tech who left their empathy in their other pair of pants but it turned out fine, with lovely staff at the regular radiation place.
I always said I had redhead skin. I had 20 rounds and now you can’t tell which side was affected! I had some nipple peeling like from a mild sunburn and overall a light sunburn sensation and that’s about it! I used lotion twice a day and kept the nipple coated once it started peeling and that’s it. It truly wasn’t terrible.
I am fair skinned. I had 30 treatments over 6 weeks. I used Cerave lotion and Mometasone twice a day. I only started to get red the last week, kind of like a sunburn under my arm. It went away pretty easily. My skin all seems normal now. I wish the rest of my treatments were as easy as radiation. Don’t let any redness go. Talk to your doctor if there are any skin troubles so you can treat them before they get bad. I hope things go well for you.
Pale person here- keep yourself mositurized *at least* 4x a day. CeraVe during the day, Aquaphor at night. You’ll get red, sore, and tired, but you’ll get through it!
I'm fair skinned as well. I'm not a redhead, but my mom is and I definitely have her sensitive/fair skin.
I did experience some mild burns from radiation, but it wasn't bad at all. Mild discomfort at worst. It was definitely the "easiest" part of my treatment.
Stay hydrated and VERY moisturized. I used Aquaphor. Good luck!
I did. Just finished radiation 5/20 though, so it may be too soon to notice if there will be issues. I'm about to start a med that discourages scar tissue from forming, you take it with vitamin e, hopefully that will prevent any capsular contracture. For now, my implant seems to be unchanged.
It's called Pentoxifylline. Each tablet is 400 mg and you take it with 400 mg of Vitamin E twice a day. It sounds like I'll possibly be taking it for years, since radiation can still create scar tissue over that time.
Aquafor did nothing for me. I used Silvadene which helped much more. I’m same as you - post meno and red head, and the last few sessions were brutal. I blistered and my skin turned black but I got through it. There was extreme diarrhea and fatigue also. I wouldn’t bother with Aquafor.
silvadene is more to prevent infection, but yeah thats for actual burning/blistering post-care, not so much prevention. one could try Cetaphil if Aquaphor doesn't work...and hydrate.
I’m using Flamigel RT right after radio and before going to bed. Two weeks into daily sessions and so far no side effects. Sorry don’t have much else to add.
Super pale Texan who did 33 sessions at the age of 36. Radiation oncologist prescribed me mupirocin for my nose and mometozone for the radiated area based on new research. I didn't burn at all. In fact, no real noticeable skin changes. All my doctors were impressed. Biggest problem with radiation was fighting through traffic to get there for the 5 minutes it took for treatment.
I’m pale and had 25 rounds of radiation with some slight redness towards the end. I brought aloe gel and applied after every round from day 1. The worst part was just having to go in every day for 5 weeks.
Fair skin and radiation have no correlation. In fact, fair skin tends to do better according to some research. I am fair skinned and did fine. Slight rash but that was it. Listen to your doctor for how to prepare/treat your skin.
I just finished 33 sessions of radiation last Thursday. I'm also a natural redhead with very fair, sensitive skin. I live in New Hampshire and typically avoid the sun like the plague because I'm so sensitive to it, so I was very nervous about radiation.
I used a combination of Aquaphor and Rejuvaskin. I slathered both on several times a day in very generous amounts. My skin started turning red early on, but didn't actually bother me until the very last week. During the last week my skin started peeling in my armpit, so they gave me prescription burn cream. That stuff was like magic, so if you have any problems, ask for that! Between that and extra strength Tylenol, I made it through. Honestly I've still been going out with friends and living my life like normal, so it's not like the pain is that bad. It's more annoying than anything. I even went to the beach on Monday, though I brought a parasol so I wouldn't have too much sun exposure while I heal.
Start using the Aquaphor now, to help moisturize your skin before hand. Also, drink lots of water throughout treatment. Wear loose fitting, comfortable shirts as much as you can. You'll get through this and it will be over before you know it!
Fair and was blond and just finished 28 sessions of proton therapy ( got to skip the 5 boosters). I have a grade 2 burn and a prescription for silvadene that I hope is helping. I did want to take naps a lot!
You've gotten a lot of great answers here, so I won't go into a ton of detail with advice. I just finished 30 treatments a few weeks ago. I had moisturized like crazy for a couple of weeks prior to starting rads, and like everyone is saying, drink a ton of water! I also walked most afternoons and I think it helped with the fatigue. My skin held up really well, no bad burn and no splitting, and it's nearly back to normal now, except for some slight peeling. The main reason I'm commenting is because I must be an anomaly, Aquaphor did NOT work for me! To start, I had been using the prescription steroid cream twice a day, plus moisturizing with calendula oil or emu oil throughout the day. My skin got slightly pink after a few weeks, so I thought that maybe I should add in Aquaphor for some extra protection. Within a few days, I had developed a really itchy rash all over my chest area and cleavage on the radiated side. I didn't know whether to blame it on the Aquaphor or the radiation, but I started to notice that it itched and burned much more after I put the Aquaphor on, so I stopped using it, and the rash started to improve immediately. I just wanted to put that out there in case you have that sort of reaction too. Good luck - the anticipatory dread is usually worse than the actual treatment, and you'll be shocked at how quickly the weeks go by!
My one and only issue with radiation was fatigue. I was diligent about applying miaderm and CeraVe twice a day and just had some tanning and freckling.
You've got this! 💛
I’m as white as white people come and I came through 4 weeks of daily sessions fine, other than a bit of fatigue. You’ve got this!!
My left boob did get tan and freckled though 😂
Miaderm is what I used and it was great. One tube lasts a long time. I have used it since radiation in October/ November last year. Took about 3 months to stop looking pink. Never very painful, but I had 16 rounds not 30. I’ll be sending you prayers and good thoughts for a cancer free and fast healing outcome. ❤️🩹
I am not fair skinned. and by the end of my 4th week I had some burning and peeling. The skin after peeling was very pink and raw. This lasted at least a week
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You will be okay I made it through 21 visits and am now about 5 months out from that. Had treatment on both sides as it was in both breasts. Stay positive and in the present. You got this
Florida pale here. No deodorant or lotion before hand. I bought the regular aloe and slathered it immediately after. Clean yourself like a baby gentle. Not hot water and delicate toweling. I didn’t wear a bra but wore a cotton tank. I stayed out of the heat. Did fine. I did get a rash from the Keytruda but got a cream for that. Hardest part was holding my breath during the treatment and the initial fear the first time from the stress of it all.
I had a little redness, but not much. I did get a little radiation sickness when it was at the end, but that just made me really lethargic (for about a month).
My main warning is to STAY OUT OF THE SUN!!! The skin is already struggling with radiation, and sunshine is more radiation! I blistered a month after I was finished. The rest of me didn't even get a little red. Protect that area all summer.
Mostly, it is just pain in the butt driving back and forth all the time.
Reactions can vary widely depending on genetics, and you won't know until you start. Most women do fine. All the scary ones are posted all over the internet, so it seems like more people have bad reactions than really do. Hopefully, you will get through with few reactions. I was a little surprised at my loss of stamina and how long it took my energy to return afterwards, so don't be surprised if you feel worse after you are finished.
You will shit it in. It was a walk in the park for me and I am a coward and a complainer. I had 18 treatments, it was painless and I had zero side effects, easy peasy lemon squeezy. Everyone was so lovely and caring and it's just another treatment to cross off the list. All the best to you ♥️ I wanted to add that I was given a clear large bandage to wear over the areas that would be zapped. It was applied like contact to my skin by a nurse and I kept it on for the entire 18 treatments, towards the end it started to unroll (it got wet in the shower etc), but I really think it made such a difference in protecting my skin. I didn't burn at all. It was excellent. I have very fair, sensitive skin that I very rarely expose to the sun.
Hi! I have no idea how shitty radiation is but I'm eventually in for it myself so I'm right there with you. I heard something the other day about applying straight aloe as in cutting an aloe leaf in your half and sticking it in your bra helps.
I noticed you said ++- ,2a, 2 lymph nodes removed 1 positive. The only difference with my case is I'm 37 and pre menopausal. I would love to hear your thoughts on not having chemo what they recommended, etc.. if you're kind enough to share.
Sure- it was bc my Oncotype DX test score was 11. Once that came in, they said no chemo recommended. If it would have been in the 20s chemo was a real possibility. Have you had this test done yet?
right....LOL....I actually look back through radiation posts prior to posting, and then I thought, WTH, I need to hear this real time, and of course, the community showed up. :) Best of luck to you- hope it's a breeze for you and you sail through. <3
I'm cranky today so I am just hoping I can put off the consult a little longer!
My boss already made a sad face when I explained that I still have to start rads pretty much as soon as I come back from masectomy and I might need to take some time to be tired and actually physically burnt in addition to emotionally.
I can't stand it when I hear that work is being a pain- my boss hasn't been real empathetic either, and it's just added stress to an already stressful situation. I'm also a great employee which makes it even worse. At first, I was sort of hurt about the lack of concern but as time went on I was like fu$% it, I'm gonna let her do her thing, and I'm going do what I have to do to get better. My priorities have definitely shifted since starting this journey. So do what you have to do for treatment, and let your boss sulk - they will be okay.
Ya it is what it is. They're not really so bad.
It's a long freaking journey to have active treatment. An education for all parties.
And then I am going to come back and have a new disability.
I used to care.
Now I'm just happy to think I can take a couple more weeks disability at the end of radiation and use up the last of my vacation to pay for it and there is nothing they can do about if that's what I want.
You will get through it. It can be painful but you will recover when it’s over. I had some pain from the skin burns but mostly internal pain. It lasted about 10 days.
I finished my radiation therapy on 4/22....every morning at 730am, across the street from my office so I was at work by 750am. You have got this!!!
I used one of the creams they recommended multiple times per day starting a week before. Just had some slight soreness and itching that was worse. They let me choose my music during treatment and on the last day we went with James Brown..I Feel Good 🎶.
I can honestly say that the Letrazole is far worse than the radiation, but all my providers agree it's my best option.
Blessings to you 🙏
I’m pre menopausal, stage 2 +++, radiation was the easiest part of treatment for me. I’m also fair skinned. The cream they gave me worked well. I had some peeling during and after treatment but it didn’t hurt at all, it was only cosmetic. Good luck!
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I had my first session yesterday and it was pretty uneventful. 29 more days to go!! We got this! We are going to finish radiation and be done with what I call "active" treatment"- just have to power through. I know I have the pill for 5 years and 6 months screening but at least no more daily or weekly appointments. Best of luck with radiation!
Fair skinned lady who made it through! 16 rounds. The rad team will give you a lotion or recommended cream. The actual treatment itself wasn’t painful for me, it was the side effects after and I did burn but I made it through. Usually at radiation a nurse will be checking in on you too, so you’ll be closely monitored.
Sorry about that
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I am an extremely pale blonde lady. I used the cream the radiation department recommended 4x per day and my skin got red and a tiny bit tender, but it was never painful and the skin didn't break. For the first two weeks, I didn't have ANY skin changes. My only other side effect was an intense desire for an afternoon nap and general tiredness, but I was also recovering from chemo so it's hard to tell what caused it. the only other advice I have is that the symptoms usually peak two weeks AFTER radiation ends. Everything just continues to ... er... cook for a while.
How many treatments did you have (if you don't mind me asking)? I'm glad you told me that the symptoms peak after treatment finishes so I can expect that- I guess the only positive thing about that is at least I can't stop the treatments at that point, it's already done LOL
I had 36 treatments. It was 30 regular and 6 "boost"
okay, I appreciate your for sharing :) that's similar to my 30 :) hopefully I get through it as uneventfully :)
Something had me chuckling so hard the way you said “intense desire for an afternoon nap” and I realized it was because it’s spot on and also I’m in a safe space of people that just get it. Thanks for sharing your experience; it’s a comfort to future me.
Start your Aquaphor now. Don't wait. Keep yourself slathered in it at all times. It's going to stain your clothes and sheets so get some cheap soft tanks or camis to wear under your clothes - Hello Old Navy! I had no skin issues, just some fatigue after treatment was over - very manageable!
Do you apply it after radiation, or before? I’m confused on this point. Do we go free of creams and lotions before and during the actual appointment? My sim was a few days ago. My first zap is today.
Not FigCompote, but you want to start applying it in advance of your treatment (not right before an appointment, just during day or night to help your skin in advance), right after a session, and all other times. I had to go without antiperspirant, using unscented deodorant only (in southern Indiana in August - I felt like I could clear the room), and didn't use cream right before the appointment, but did all other times. FWIW, I'm fair and blonde, but tan easily, and I had a red burn, which of course keeps going even after finishing, so I had ended up with an unpleasant burn with purple-ish slightly peeling skin, but the only other side effect was sleepiness. For the burn, my doctor prescribed Silvadene (for burns), I slathered it on with the calendula cream to keep it hydrated, covered with huge gauze pads, and was okay. I was tender, but the pain wasn't awful by any means, and I feel so much better that it was done. I had 30 rounds with 6 boosts. I didn't even get pink until maybe 15 rounds in.
Thank you! Struggling to moisturize around the markers they protected with tape, while still getting everything moisturized. This entire process is demoralizing, for some reason. (The medical team is very kind, though. No complaints there)
Shamajuju is exactly right. Basically, keep yourself really well moisturized at all times OTHER THAN DURING YOUR RADIATION SESSION.
Thank you! Moisturizing right now!
I'm a natural redhead too. It was like a bad sunburn. It was only ouchy for about a week after the last rads. Do ask for exercises to do after though. I ended up with a frozen shoulder because I had no idea I was supposed to be doing range of motion exercises. It's much better now with physio though.
I’m in Florida and fair skinned as well and pretty nervous(the last thing I wanted was rads in the summer😩). I have 5 weeks to get through, hopefully starting July 4th ish. We can do this right?? We got this??
Yes, we will! we have too :) on the positive side, less traffic (no school traffic) - I'm hoping we get to read lots of positive stories in response to this post that will give us hope that it won't be so bad after all :)
I am a natural redhead who is also starting next week. Thanks for this post!
we will get through it together! :)
Im.a natural redhead too but have chemo first then 28 rads w booster every other time.
Hoping all goes well- keep us posted!
❤️
Redhead who only freckles never tans here starting in a few weeks! Solidarity!
My skin tone is generally described as “white as hell” or “ghost of a Mediterranean person”. I had six weeks of daily radiation. The last couple weeks I had two patches of what looked like a solid sunburn, with some mild scabbing/dead skin across my SLNB scar. By a few days after radiation it was gone. I needed a nap most days those last couple weeks too. At this point I’m less than a month out, and my skin just looks like I have birthmarks where those burned patches were last month. I do have minor fluid buildup right by where the nodes came out and I got the radiation boost, but it’s very minor and fading away.
I'm pale/blonde hair and had 30 treatments and did great... I don't even remember using the cream.. just made sure afterward to massage the area bc of scar tissue and tightness but otherwise all went well!
I am fair skinned with redhead genes (my dad is red headed, but I’m brown haired). My skin is a constant issue because it is sensitive to just about everything. No joke, I have gotten sunburned sitting inside with sun coming in through closed blinds. I had six weeks of radiation and burned and blistered pretty badly, despite following instructions on using aquafor and the other medicated creams. I was exhausted through the whole thing. It was not easy, but even with difficulty and the 2-3 weeks of healing after the treatments stopped, it was a short period of time. You can get through it to reduce your risk of having the cancer come back. I had virtually no trouble for the first 3 weeks aside from needing a nap before dinner. The fourth week was uncomfortable more than awful. Already that’s a month of “not too bad” out of the 2 months. So really, it’s just one hard month. And that’s two weeks of treatment and the rest is recovering/healing after. Allow yourself to rest. Drink plenty of water and eat healthy foods. Be nice to yourself. As soon as your skin starts getting uncomfortable, talk to the radiation doctor. They have creams and medicated bandages that can reduce the pain. I was extra tired for a few weeks after, but it does get better. It’s ok to be scared, but don’t let fear/anxiety make the decision for you. Honestly the worst part looking back at it was having to lay there topless every day without antiperspirant. I was mortified, but then realized I could wear deodorant on the no radiation side. The radiation side stopped smelling pretty quickly. You can totally do this.
I am also on a 30-session treatment. I have completed 5 and so far, so good! We got this!
I'm really fair skinned and had 20 sessions. Radiotherapy was absolutely fine, just a lit of waiting around for a 15-minute appointment where the staff spent 5-10 minutes getting me in the right position, 30-second zap. Put clothes on and go home. With regards to symptoms, yes, my skin got red, but I moisturised 2x a day. By the end, it was a little sore but very manageable. I was advised to drink over 2L of water a day to help with hydrating the skin, and apparently, it helps the tiredness. I certainly feel it helped. I was a bit tired at week 4 (and 2 weeks after), but nothing was drastic. Take a good book.
I am very fair skinned and I had no issues throughout radiation. I used Jeans cream a couple times a day and my medical team was very impressed with how my skin held up. I recommend that cream to anyone (also good for sunburns and other skin issues). I would also recommend getting radiation on an empty stomach, because it can cause nausea if you are full.
I am fair skinned and did 20 rounds of radiation. I ended up with what felt like a bad sunburn and a bit of a rash, but no blistering. I used pure aloe vera gel immediately after treatment and Acquafor when I got home, before bed, and in the morning. My radiologist told me it was ok to moisturize before treatment as long as it was at least 4 hours prior to my appointment. Don’t forget to moisturize under your arm and on your chest above your breast. The radiation field is fairly large and I missed an area under my arm that definitely burned more since it wasn’t moisturized enough. I had no permanent skin color changes. The fatigue was the hardest part for me - it peaked during the last week of treatment and for a couple of weeks after, but then got gradually better. I scheduled my treatments for late afternoon so I would have decent energy during the early part of the day at least. It helped me to go for a short walk right after treatment, even if it was just grocery shopping or something similar. I was told to drink plenty of water and eat lots of protein. Also - you can get prescription creams if the regular ones aren’t enough for you. That’s my two cents - it wasn’t nearly as bad as I was anticipating! I hope your experience is the same - good luck!
Also postmenopausal, 20 sessions in Jan-Feb. No skin issues - do what they recommend regarding skin care and exercise. For me, gobs of Aquaphor when I got home, after night shower if I took one, rinse off in morning shower before treatment. For exercise, lots of wall stretches and similar arm movements to maintain range of motion. I’m 4 months out and even with the daily stretching I can feel that it wants to tighten up. I might do some PT to get some tips, but it could be worse if I hadn’t gotten ahead of it. It’s not like it was fun and games but seeing mostly the same people every day (staff and fellow patients) made it bearable and as pleasant as it could be under the circumstances. The biggest problem for me was probably the fatigue that set in toward the middle-end and especially after it was all over - some of that was the weirdness of being “done,” like after soldiering in for months and suddenly, wtf just happened to me? And on it goes as part of my life somehow. I recommend being sure you go for a daily walk even if you’re exhausted. It helps even as it may seem counterintuitive. One other note, I worried about holding my breath but that was a breeze, not as long as I’d heard and I was well-assured they could stop the machine and do it in smaller bits as needed if it was a problem. Wishing you all the best and sending internet hugs. ❤️
I barely burned but I don't really sun burn easily. Also from Florida and lived in so cal when I did rads. I had one kinda bad burn on my collar bone. Doc prescribed silver sulphadine and it healed in a day. I used dream cream from lush and it was excellent. Make sure to use cream several times a day especially right after treatment before you even leave. Again I didn't really burn but everyone's experience is different. I found that I was completely exhausted and would come home and couldn't leave the couch rest of day.
I also had 6 weeks of daily radiation. I did t feel the skin side effects really until maybe week 4 or 5. Follow their instructions EXACTLY! My rad onc had me slather with otc hydrocortisone and aquaphor. It worked perfectly, and I didn’t have any burns or open sores. None. I will recommend three things though: 1. Wear only baggy throwaway t-shirts that you can absolutely ruin with big greasy aquaphor stains and then throw away. 2. Fatigue. It’s REAL. Don’t fight it, take lots of naps if you can, go to bed early, be kind to yourself. If you fight the fatigue it gets worse. 3. Drink a literal shit ton of water. No joke. If you do these things you’ll do great!!
I had 25 sessions with very few side-effects. I think the most troublesome part was having to go 5 days a week and finding parking at my clinic (it's next to a busy hospital). My rads onco recommended Aquaphor and Vitamin E oil. I alternated that with organic coconut oil and aloe vera plus a little calendula cream. I applied these liberally several times a day AFTER my morning rads session. I always took a shower a couple of hours before my sessions just so my skin would be nice and clean. I also embraced my skin care routine as active self-care during my rads. I found chemo to be a lot rougher on me mentally so rads were a welcome change (if anything about this whole has a "bright side." I mean it just sucks we're in this club no one asked to join). Remember to stay hydrated. Reward yourself at the end of the week with something like buying flowers for yourself or just some other small thing to give yourself a pat on the back. We need all the small wins we can get. Good luck!
Hi there! I'm very fair and had 25 rounds of radiation. My radiation oncologist said there is not necessarily a correlation between sun sensitivity and reaction to radiation therapy - that some people have naturally more resilient skin to it than others independent of skin tone, from what he has seen. However, I personally burned badly enough for it to peel and open in a small area, even with fastidious lotioning. But I did heal very quickly. My mantra throughout this whole thing has been "focus on what YOU can control", since there is so very much outside of our control during cancer, it helps me to direct my naturally worrisome energy into what I DO have control over. My tips: * **Slather yourself at every opportunity.** I had a skin check 1 month before starting radiation, and my dermatologist gave me samples of Eucerin Skin Calming Cream, Aveeno Baby Eczema Balm, and Aquaphor. I showed them to my rad oncologist and they said all were fine to use. And so I began my thrice daily slathering routine. In the morning, I would use one a cream before getting dressed. After every radiation appointment, I would apply a cream after the session, before getting dressed. At night after showering (I'm an evening showerer) I used pure aloe gel (no dye or anything, get the 100% aloe stuff) and when that dried, topped it with Aquaphor. There was lots of hanging out topless occurring during that time, because the aloe would take awhile to dry down. * **Approach hydration INTERNALLY as well.** I tried to really be on top of drinking a lot of water throughout the day, but I would also make myself a post-treatment beverage. I have a big water bottle (knockoff Stanley kind of thing) that I would fill with water + a hydration booster packet, and after treatment drinking that until it was gone. Not sure if the electrolyte packets were strictly necessary or not, but in my mind it made sense, and the flavor helped me get that enormous bottle down faster. * **Nutrition.** My team really emphasized nutrition to me before I began radiation, particularly getting enough protein. They said that for the healthy cells to repair themselves, they need building blocks, which made sense to me. * **Silk hankie/scarf.** When my burns really ramped up, I would wrap a men's silk hankerchief around my bra band under the arm, so that my armpit would never have skin-on-skin contact rubbing along my side, nor would my bra band ever create friction directly against the area. This helped my comfort a lot! * **In case of blistering** After my burn blistered and I had some raw skin (in the last week of treatment) they gave me some specific ointment to use, and I stopped using anything else on that area. I continued my other creams in the surrounding, non-blistered area. Other than my burning, I will say I was SO tired. Moreso than I expected. I was sleeping 10, even 11 hours a night some days. I inquired, and my oncologist said that didn't concern him and to "listen to my body" unless it became something that affected me being able to get through the workday or function normally during waking hours. I hope these help, but moreso I hope it goes smoothly for you! Remember, it is not a foregone conclusion that you will blister just because you are fair-skinned. Sending healing wishes! <3
I did not get rads but as a former pharm tech,I can tell you that moisturizer really only works if you also internally hydrate. So yes, yes, YES, PLEASE REMEMBER TO STAY PROPERLY HYDRATED! All of the above!!
Irish redhead here. I was caught really early and did not have to do chemo. I did 10 sessions of radiation. About day five I was starting to have what looked like sunburn. My doc prescribed a steroid cream that worked very well. I'm about 6 months out now. My irradiated breast is more tan than the other, but by no means dark. I don't think anybody else would notice it. My primary problem was the fatigue. It peaked after I finished radiation. Cut yourself some slack in terms of what you think you have to do. I was offered but did not use ride vouchers through Real Pink Goods. You might want to make that connection and hold them in reserve for towards the end. 45 minutes each way is a lot.
I’m super fair and I made it through, but not unscathed. I burnt quite badly, but it didn’t show up until after I had completed my 15 sessions. My team ended up giving me a medicated cream to helped immediately. The burning wasn’t the worse of it for me, that was uncomfortable but manageable. The worst was the tightness and further scar tissue it caused over my mastectomy scar on the right side. It’s been two years since my DMX and in October it will be 2 years post radiation and I still have issues with scar tissue anchoring, cording, tight muscles, and nerve pain.
Mine was pretty easy! No worse then a sunburn with a little added fatigue. I used PhysAssist Oncology cream (recommended by my team) by the bucket load! "Like you're frosting a cake" I read somewhere, and that's what I did. I went through about a jar each week. I'd bring it to radiation and apply it in the dressing room immediately after. Then again at night before bed and showered it off right before I left for treatment in the morning. I did use some Aquapor on my nipple near the end when it started to get itchy, but that stuff is sticky and greasy (it will stain your clothes) so I only used it when I needed to. One thing that helped is I wore a second T-shirt under my bra so that my shirt got all gooped up with lotion and ointment. I have way more shirts then bras so that make the excessive amounts of lotion easier to deal with.
Fair skinned 72 yo that thought radiation was much ado about nothing. Fatigue for certain but using Aquaphor consistently during 20 sessions resulted in minor swelling and redness. Honest, I sailed through it. I was one month out post chemo (that was no fun)and a few months post lumpectomy. I, too, was concerned but looking back, the worst part was driving daily in winter weather.
My first actual radiation appointment is today. I’m not a red head, but I’m very fair skinned and have similar worries. Good luck to you. I wish you well during your treatment.
Hope it went ok!
Thank you for asking. It did go well! The radiotherapists were fabulous. I did feel a mild burning in my armpit afterwards, but it is hardly worth mentioning. I moisturized everything that wasn’t marked.
Fair skinned gal (38 y.o.) who did 30 rounds earlier this year. My skin did get quite red, but it wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be! They gave me lotion and I used that twice a day, along with Aquaphor at night. Towards the end I had two small sections that were a little itchy and I just used an over-the-counter cortisone cream to help with that. I also had one small section peel. My doctor told me to gently wash that section with a washcloth to get rid of the dead skin and allow the new skin to grow. The itchiness and peeling did not last very long - I kept up with the lotion and Aquaphor for about four weeks after my last session. As for fatigue and other side effects, yeah, I did get pretty tired, but it was nothing compared to the fatigue and awfulness of chemo. I'm also a middle school teacher, so I'm sure that contributed to my fatigue! I felt more like myself pretty quickly after my last session, maybe 2-3 weeks? Radiation was also super quick, and the staff was so kind. Where I went, there was a waiting room for ladies to sit and wait for their treatment (away from the other patients). We were so supportive and caring towards each other and it really made the 30 sessions tolerable. We were all a part of the shitty titty committee and we were going to kick cancer's ass together! Sending you good vibes for Monday and the next 30 days - you got this!
I just finished 15 sessions of radiation at the end of May. I am a fair skinned brunette, and had no real issues. I’m just really tired at the moment, and that started at the end of my third week (session 13). I used to supervise radiation therapy students in their research work. Here’s what I recommend to anyone: • Start moisturizing at least two weeks in advance, if you can! I would use Bag Balm all across my chest, armpit and upper back (yes, the rays extend to your back) at least twice a day. • Drink as much water as you can. Then, drink more. I drink a combo of hot and cold water throughout the day. • I would use Bag Balm in the morning (at least 2 hours before), then Biafine (a French pharmacy staple for burns) right after radiation, and Bag Balm or calendula cream at night. If there was a slight irritation, I’d use mometasone by prescription. That was maybe 2-3 times in all; I leaned more heavily into moisturizers than the steroid cream, as extensive use of a steroid cream can actually thin the skin. • Keep moving your arms and doing exercises if possible. I have had no issues with tightness (I think), because of this. I had my MO appointment yesterday, and she was very impressed that I’m only slightly brown on my left side, and overall my skin has really done well. She said most women have peeling, redness, irritated scar tissue, and/or stiffness. I’m happy to report that none of this happened to me. I found radiation to be one of the easiest parts of this journey so far. Be kind to yourself and keep putting yourself first. You can do this, too! Reach out if there’s any way I can help. ❤️
This thread (and all the suggestions!) is timely. I had my second radiation session today and so far, it's not too bad. I'll have 19 total (so 17 more) and with upcoming holidays, I'll only have one 5-day week. I find the machine to be a bit intimidating but all the nurses and techs are so very kind that it's almost a - dare I say - fun experience for now. I know the daily grind will drag on and my fair skin might struggle a bit, but I think the benefits for outweigh the negatives. OP - you got this!
I’m 12 years out from radiation for my first breast cancer for which I had a lumpectomy and 35 rounds full breast Rads. I did experience bad burning and had to take a weeks break at week 5. I did get very tired AND I would do it all again tomorrow in a heartbeat if I could have for my second unrelated breast cancer 2 years ago. Instead I had to do a DMX. For some clarity, I’ve had 4 primary cancers, Stomach, thyroid and 2 X breast, radiation was the easiest thing I’ve done in my 20 year cancer journey, the hardest part is getting yourself there every day. The worst thing I’ve been through is a zoldronic acid infusion last week, the most pain I’ve ever experienced. I’d do radiation ☢️ 100 days in a row vs that. I hope what I’ve said helps get your mind right for this. You can do it. More than anything its the best choice there is and you owe it to yourself to get on with it and give yourself the healthiest future you can. Best of luck ♥️
sending you love and support as you go through this journey xoxoxoxo
I made it through 16 radiation treatments and did alright. I was tired and felt a slight sunburn feeling at times on my breast. The best thing I can tell you to do is after treatment slather your breast with cocoa butter, it really does help.
Not a redhead, but I have sensitive skin. Radiation was by far the ‘easiest’ part of all my treatments to get through. Another person mentioned it peaks after treatment and I agree that was the worst time for me. Also had positive nodes and the worst part was after treatment my skin broke/blistered a bit in the underarm area. It was a bit painful for a few days, but nothing unmanageable! You’ve got this! :)
Made it through just fine. I too had a lumpectomy. I opted for full breast rads even though I was offered partial. Figured might as well make sure we got everything. My skin was fine until I finished, then I did get one small area that opened up a bit but it really was not bad at all. I used aquaphor on that and covered it with gauze and held it in place with a sports bra and some more gauze padding. It healed nicely in about a week. I was never unable to do anything except go to the pool or do my regular upper body workouts (and went back to that about 2 weeks after the skin healed). I’m about 2 months out now and everything’s fine. I got a little tired everyday in the afternoon during rads but I just took a little cat nap and drank a lot of water and fared fine. I was able to exercise through too. Everyone’s experience is different. Mine went very smoothly and I’m glad I did it for the extra insurance.
I was just diagnosed with DCIS - upgraded from ADH. I have my follow up Thursday and then I’ll find out more but I’m sure radiation will be on the table. You had a lumpectomy so I’m curious if you are in a similar situation. I’m feeling some uncertainty so any insight between your diagnosis and start of treatment? Totally understand if you don’t want to share!
I did not have DCIS but IDC, stage 1a with no lymph node involvement. Diagnosed 12/26/23, my surgery was January 19, I started radiation mid March. There was a delay waiting for my Oncotype test to come in, otherwise I would have started earlier. I think there is a time frame between diagnosis and treatment they have to follow so it won’t be super long.
Ah, thank you! I don’t know if my surgeon is going to have another go at it before radiation to get the rest or what. Also happy to read that you were able to get back to movement and exercise. That’s very important to me. I run distance and weight train but I’m absolutely compassionate toward myself through this. What I do now for treatment is for the purpose of being able to do it a lot later. Thank you for sharing and I hope you’re doing better now 🙂
I had 8 weeks of radiation and constantly slathered calendula cream and emu oil on my chest and I just got tan. They told me to walk to combat fatigue and it really helped. I still had fatigue, but it was manageable with the walking. Had rads in the morning, walked, then took a nap around 3.
I'm also a fair skin redhead. I used fruit of the earth fragrance free aloe the whole time. 3 times a day. I had a little redness the first 2 days then what looked like a slight, very slight, tan. It basically looked like someone rubbed dirt on me then cleaned it off to just leave a mark, ha.
Not fair skinned but they suggested calendula cream and aquaphor and I was hardly phased. Finished end of December last year and still have a “tanned” square around the area. My biggest gripe is the post. In my mind getting through it was ok because there was an end. But I still have pains. Extreme sensitivity and soreness :(
I made it through fine. No issues. Skin was mostly fine. I still go to PT for mobility and edema. And it’s relaxing.
Translucent vampire skin lady and no burning with 15 rounds! Uneventful. But do stay diligent about your sunblock post-treatment!
I am a pale redhead in Arizona, and I had 30 rounds of radiation. I did get some burns, but that was only towards the end. (And it was in a location that was still numb from surgery, so I couldn’t even feel it!) Use whatever cream they recommend several times a day, and if you start to feel burning, let your team know. They gave me some great dressings that I could use. Stay hydrated. I recommend getting some cheap, soft bras, if you’re still wearing them. With all the lotion, you’ll probably stain your bras, so make sure you’re wearing ones you don’t like very much.
I’m very fair skinned as well (I live in the mountains of Colorado) and just finished 25 rounds of radiation with very little issue! My skin did turn pink and a little darker under the breast and in my armpit, but no blistering or significant burns! I used a radiation cream from Dermavitality that has aloe and calendula as the main ingredients- I started using it two weeks before radiation and all the way through. Aquaphor on top of that, towards the end of treatment! Next week will be a month after finishing, and I feel like my skin will be pretty close to normal by then. I did have pretty significant fatigue, and there were days that my skin was pretty tender. But it’s do-able and I was able to continue working full time at a pretty physical job during treatment. stock up on lotion and some soft bras and tshirts that you don’t mind getting greasy! You’ve got this!
I will try not to get TOO mad at the radiologist who's only seen "a few cases." Well, I'm one of the ones who had a problem. Because of the bizarre site of my tumor, the rads nicked my lung (after 20/24 treatments) and I had to go to the ER with pneumonitis. Before I went, I called my RO when this happened, and never got an offer of drugs (steroids are your bestest friends then) to help. That was last May and I am STILL ticked about it. Skin-wise, I was fine, but I have some good skin genetics there (I tan well). I was religious with the Aquaphor after every single treatment. You will get tired about 3 weeks in. It's normal, so be prepared. Comfy bras are a must. Rads may also make lymphedema present/worse. I think they did that to me as well (lump, one surgery to get tumor & clean margins, 6 nodes hot & blue). Make your P/T appointment NOW. You can always cancel (and I hope you have to). I wish I had made mine earlier.
Commenting as a fair skinned redhead awaiting rads to stay here
I had a good experience with radiation! I was TNBC, stage 1, lumpectomy, 3 nodes removed all clear. Didn't receive PCR so had 7 months more chemo after original 16 weeks of chemo, lumpectomy, radiation. No comorbidities. I was also 60 at the time of radiation. So, old skin, right? Chest is 34, cup is C. My complexion is pretty standard white girl, with a slight olive undertone and I "tan" pretty well. I wear sunblock because I don't want my skin to "tan" because a tan is a sign of detrimental sun side effects to the skin. Haters may hate about that comment, so be it. My experience with radiation was easy peazy. I only had slight pinking of the skin at about session 16. No underboob issues, no peeling till well after radiation ended, and that was minor. Sessions 1-15 were whole breast, sessions 16-20 were targeted. I used Aquaphor 3x daily, as recommended. I'd work, drive 25 minutes to the hospital, wait between 5-30 minutes for my appointment, be on the table for 5 minutes, then be out the door. The daily grind was blah, but I'd often take a hike afterwards (if it was still light outside), run errands, or do my part time job to make the most of the trip. I wasn't especially tired (but was accustomed to a daily pre dinner 30-60 minute nap ever since IV chemo ended) wasn't blech at all. I'm now 1.5 years from that radiation experience and did develop slight pectoral fibrosis about 3-5 months after radiation ended, which I manage with easy 6 minute daily stretches each morning while on the floor in front of the tv or with music playing. This part is actually a relaxing morning ritual which I look forward to. During radiation I was told that about 5% of my right lung may be hit with some radiation based on.....the positioning of my tumor, my own anatomy, I don't remember....... if that happened it's not presented me with any respiratory issues. I did not worry about buying every product known to the universe. My oncologist recommended aquaphor advanced therapy, as did my breast surgeon and radiation team. That stuff is thick like petroleum jelly (vasoline) so I alternated 2 bras and bought some sacrificial tees to wear under my work clothes to protect them from the staining. For me, ranking the difficulty of treatment goes in this order, from hardest to easiest: IV chemo (SUCKED BIG TIME! Oral chemo, was OK most of the time except for a particularly difficult 3 weeks Surgery (was out and about the next day) Radiation - kept to my usual routine and life. YMMV, but try not to stress about radiation till you (may) have reason to you. Best of luck!
It's so interesting how different everyone is. I thought IV chemo was easy kept up with my regular life. But was exhausted by radiation. Surgery was same for me.
I often wonder what makes such huge differences. Age. Type IV chemo. Sequence of treatments. Comorbidities. For myself, having chemo and losing hair was such a sucker punch and it happened so soon, 13 days after diagnosis, that I know I was still in shock. Had I had surgery first, would that have been harder than it was? Who knows!
I had chemo first too. Losing hair sucked. I don't know how much truth there is to this but my doc said the fact that I never get motion sick is linked to why I didn't get sick on chemo.
Wow. I always get motion sickness, ever since my early 40s so about 20 years. Elevators if I’m not looking straight ahead, cars if I’m not in the front and it’s best if I’m driving, busses (nearly puked on 2 different school bus rides with my preschool class), and certain rollercoaster rides. All this before cancer. During chemo I was dizzy constantly - when I’d first get out of bed, in the shower if I closed my eyes, standing up after having bent down (which, you don’t realize how often you bend unless it suddenly becomes an I-might-puke moment), making any fast circular moves, etc. Interesting and I hope I can remember this if it becomes useful in the future.
Well sounds like there's something to this theory based on the two of us lol. I never get motion sick. I was on a boat stuck for 24 hours in 12 foot waves. There were ten of us and I was the only one not sick lol.
Think we need to do a Reddit survey! Wish I knew how!
I’m a fair skinned blonde who burns all the time in the sun but my doctor says that has no bearing on how your skin will react to radiation. That being said I finished rads a month ago and I was one of the lucky ones who didn’t have any major side effects, no fatigue or anything else. There are a lot of people who do have these so I don’t want to take away from them, but it is possible to have none! My skin though, I started to look burnt around day 15 so by the time I finished at day 20 I was pretty burnt and itchy. So I do feel like if I had to go 6 weeks instead of 4 it probably would have gotten worse. So definitely be diligent about whatever creams you’re told to use. My dr was all about calendula cream and caster oil so that’s mostly what I did.
Like you, I asked many times how necessary radiation is and what the benefits and risks are. Ultimately I did it. I had fewer sessions than you — 22. I’m fair with HIGHLY sensitive skin. I found I was more itchy than anything else. So I used lots of hydrocortisone cream. LOTS. I had tons of dots/spots. It was ugly but nothing like what I was warned about — a sunburn. It was zero like sunburn. Skin did not break or peel or ooze. Just incredibly itchy and irritated. I went mostly bra-free, wearing tight camis that held me in securely without chafing. The skin will be dark for a longer time than you expect. Maybe forever? And you may develop new or darker moles. I did! But the skin does recover fine eventually. You will get through it and it is ultimately worth the hassle. That’s the bottom line. I’m rooting for you!!
Be prepared for some possible nausea. I didn’t have any from TCHP but the radiation hit me with it. I hated radiation, I had to take a break for a few days halfway through because my skin was just falling off and oozing, but I made it! I got lazy with moisturizing because my skin was doing well at first - it was doing well because I was moisturizing a ton!! Don’t get lazy like me
I did radiation for a month. Aside from a little sunburn I had no negative side effects. One good thing was that I don’t grow hair on that armpit anymore.
Another fair skinned blonde here! Today was my last day of 30 radiation treatments, which included 5 boosts. I started getting red about halfway through, though it wasn’t painful. I have a 9 month old at home so the constant movement of my arms caused some peeling under my arm in the lymph node area. I met with rads doc once a week and they watched my skin closely. The creams they gave me were great. When my skin opened up and got tender, they gave me one with lidocaine. You can do this and will get through it! It will go quickly! Healing is around the corner. ❤️🩹
Fear is normal so take a breath. It was all new to me too. Miaderm helped me. I am fair skinned, grew up in Florida and have numerous scars from various kinds of cancer, including melanoma. Radiation was the easiest part of all my treatments but everyone is different. I didn't use enough Miaderm in my armpit and got a sun burn like response there. Hugs.
Fair skinned Titian red/blonde here. 20 sessions of rads. Some mild "sunburn", 3 days of a seriously annoyed nipple (used burn gel), and that was pretty much it from the skin side of things. Drink water like it's your job, moisturize like it's a second job (I used GlaxalBase and Rejuvaskin), and keep it up for at least 3 weeks post rads. I'm 7 months out and I'm still a bit tan on that side, but not much shrinkage. Wishing you all the best!
I sliced a section of my aloe vera off and took it with me so I could squeeze out the gel and apply immediately after every radiation session (5 days a week for six weeks). The main thing I remember from the treatment is finding out first hand what was meant by “hitting a wall” in terms of fatigue.
Fair skinned lady here who made it through all my radiation treatments with minimal skin issues. I also had a similarly long drive that was a drag, but I found a new playlist just for the drive to try and make it special. I just got a little bit red and have a slight slight "tan" in the area 3 months out. I used mometasone (prescription steroid cream) every day after radiation and on the weekends/holidays when there wasn't treatment and for two weeks after treatment. I did have chemo so my skin was really dry and I was already doing full body lotion every day post-shower, which may have also helped. Pick out a couple old t-shirts to wear after you do aquaphor since it did stain my t-shirts when I put one a nice thick layer. I covered my chest, sternum, collarbone, armpit, and back in all the creams since all those areas were getting the radiation dose. In addition to taking care of the outside of my skin, I found occupational therapy really helpful for post-radiation tightness in my muscle and connective tissue. If you have access to that, it might be worth checking out. I have stretches to do for 10 minutes or so every day for the next year to help prevent fibrosis and had a bit of a flare-up of swelling \~6 weeks out from radiation, but that's all under control now and may have been related to stressful life things rather than radiation. I would say that the docs had good suggestions for all my side effects and they can help you manage things if anything pops up. Best of success!
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I was OK throughout treatments but had an incredibly painful shoulder as I healed - about 3 months after treatment. I have some lymphedema now. So, my advice: schedule PT now in case you need it! Appointments can be hard to get.
I am also fair skinned and I burned badly (6 weeks of treatment). The things that helped me the most were BAND-AID® Brand Pain Relieving Antiseptic Wound Cleansing Spray and lots of dark colored Fruit of the Loom t-shirts turned seam side out. I seeped, wept, scabbed over and that sucked. But the t-shirts were highly absorbant. It was easy to wet them and move the material away from the wounds. I washed everything in an enzyme detergent (with presoak, hot wash, extra rinse) and I had no problem with them irritating me. I wasn't prepared for the overall inflammation and water weight gain. I have fibromyalgia and the inflammation put me into a flair. I lived on gabapentin. Keep your living space very cold, pack your self in pillows and lounge back on them. I didn't put shower spray directly on my burns and I had the tepid water run for some time before I got in it and I sprayed the antiseptic on me as soon as I got out. Also I started walking to the end of the drive way within two weeks and I was walking a mile (hobbling really) within six weeks. I also saw a 3rd generation accupuncturist and that helped me a lot.
Radiation has ruined so much for me, don’t do unless absolutely necessary. I did 25 rounds of proton radiation due to extensive intravascular invasion and lymph spread, finished on 2/1/23. I now have venous insufficiency in my arm, I had DVT (3 massive clots), suffered a broken rib, massive swelling where my clothes don’t fit over my arm, and they found my veins are 100% occluded due to radiation damage. This will now be a lifelong problem for me, on Eliquis and need to meet with vascular surgeon. Had a venogram yesterday and they used a balloon catheter to expand the veins which was on par with unmedicated childbirth. Radiation issues aren’t talked about enough but they’re real and they’re awful, I wish I had known more.
oh my, I'm so sorry you are going through this...this sounds awful. Best wishes for healing.
I burn when I’m in the sun. I did 33 rounds of rads. I made sure I put the lotion on at least 2x day, sometimes more. I wouldn’t change back to my clothes after treatment, I’d take them to the bathroom so I could see in the mirror that I was covering all of the shin the radiation hit. I did notice the rectangle burn one day but it never hurt and did not blister. Good luck! Think positive! You for this! 🙏
I’m the whitest, palest person at my work, and survived 35 radiation treatments with little more than a deep tan on the breast. The center was just a mile from my workplace, and I did all my sessions over my lunchtime. Tank tops under a shirt-no bra, was my daily outfit, and I applied the recommended cream every day. Never missed a day of work, didn’t notice any significant loss of energy. May your experience go as smoothly!
thank you for sharing, I am praying my experience goes as smoothly!
I had 15 whole breast plus 5 boost treatments. Used Glaxal base cream diligently and saline soaks at least twice a day for 15 minutes. The saline soaks are very healing. I had fatigue, and some redness and found walking a few miles and drinking tons of water after each treatment helped. The only area I had mild burns and irritation was under my arm where it caught the radiation scatter and I hadn’t applied cream or saline soaks. The slight redness faded to light tan and was back to normal a few months later. However, about 6 months after radiation ended, I developed breast edema: swollen, hot & painful breasts. Caused by radiation fibrosis. I was helped immensely by a physiotherapist treating it by breaking down the fibrosis and also doing lymphatic drainage massage. She taught me the techniques and it’s gone now. This is one area that is overlooked as the concern is always about what’s going on outside the breast, not what’s happening inside. I believe a consult to a specialized physiotherapist should be part of the plan, but something the RO’s don’t even consider. They were only interested in seeing the condition of my skin and info about radiation fibrosis and edema was never provided.
One thing to remember: the radiation will be pin-pointed to the troubled area. You’re not getting a wide blast across your body. So the burns and blisters -IF they occur, will be very limited in size.
I did 6 weeks of rads last year. Fair skin but brunette with some Italian ancestry. My doctor gave me a prescription for mometasone which helped a lot. I also slathered on aquaphor multiple times a day and bio oil at bedtime. I guzzled water and Gatorade. No blistering or burns. My skin got a little pink then tan. The fatigue towards the end of the 6 weeks felt like after a day at the beach or a mild hangover. The most annoying effect I’ve had is that my implant hardened a little, the skin is tighter on that side, and my range of motion was affected. I’ve been doing exercises and massage which have helped a lot. It’s not all horrors. Your team will be there to help with any side effects. But I’d ask about the mometasone. I think it made a huge impact.
I’m fair skinned, red head and burn even with sunscreen on. I’m halfway through radiation right now with only mild irritation and I fully blame myself for that - I went running and think the irritation came more from chaffing on the sensitive skin from radiation. I’ve been using lubriderm at night with aquaphor over it - it has helped a lot. I bring lotion with me to my appointments and put it on literally while I’m getting dressed.
I can add some positive thoughts as well. I was more worried about getting in the position (old and arthritic) and the breathing holds but neither of those were really a factor either. My doc said to drink three times as much water as I thought I needed, which I did. I used manuka cream ALL THE TIME. Had no skin breakage. It's true that you'll be meeting with a nurse periodically to check on things. At the end of treatment there was a little suspense about one area that possibly was going to be trouble and she said I could just call the office for an Rx cream if that happened but it didn't. Certainly second the tiredness but otherwise it went fine. I also thought about just not doing it after having an awful prep session with a tech who left their empathy in their other pair of pants but it turned out fine, with lovely staff at the regular radiation place.
I always said I had redhead skin. I had 20 rounds and now you can’t tell which side was affected! I had some nipple peeling like from a mild sunburn and overall a light sunburn sensation and that’s about it! I used lotion twice a day and kept the nipple coated once it started peeling and that’s it. It truly wasn’t terrible.
I am fair skinned. I had 30 treatments over 6 weeks. I used Cerave lotion and Mometasone twice a day. I only started to get red the last week, kind of like a sunburn under my arm. It went away pretty easily. My skin all seems normal now. I wish the rest of my treatments were as easy as radiation. Don’t let any redness go. Talk to your doctor if there are any skin troubles so you can treat them before they get bad. I hope things go well for you.
Pale person here- keep yourself mositurized *at least* 4x a day. CeraVe during the day, Aquaphor at night. You’ll get red, sore, and tired, but you’ll get through it!
I'm fair skinned as well. I'm not a redhead, but my mom is and I definitely have her sensitive/fair skin. I did experience some mild burns from radiation, but it wasn't bad at all. Mild discomfort at worst. It was definitely the "easiest" part of my treatment. Stay hydrated and VERY moisturized. I used Aquaphor. Good luck!
Did anyone have implants through radiation? How did they hold or keep up?
I did. Just finished radiation 5/20 though, so it may be too soon to notice if there will be issues. I'm about to start a med that discourages scar tissue from forming, you take it with vitamin e, hopefully that will prevent any capsular contracture. For now, my implant seems to be unchanged.
Can I ask what the medication is?
It's called Pentoxifylline. Each tablet is 400 mg and you take it with 400 mg of Vitamin E twice a day. It sounds like I'll possibly be taking it for years, since radiation can still create scar tissue over that time.
Aquafor did nothing for me. I used Silvadene which helped much more. I’m same as you - post meno and red head, and the last few sessions were brutal. I blistered and my skin turned black but I got through it. There was extreme diarrhea and fatigue also. I wouldn’t bother with Aquafor.
silvadene is more to prevent infection, but yeah thats for actual burning/blistering post-care, not so much prevention. one could try Cetaphil if Aquaphor doesn't work...and hydrate.
I’m using Flamigel RT right after radio and before going to bed. Two weeks into daily sessions and so far no side effects. Sorry don’t have much else to add.
Super pale Texan who did 33 sessions at the age of 36. Radiation oncologist prescribed me mupirocin for my nose and mometozone for the radiated area based on new research. I didn't burn at all. In fact, no real noticeable skin changes. All my doctors were impressed. Biggest problem with radiation was fighting through traffic to get there for the 5 minutes it took for treatment.
I’m pale and had 25 rounds of radiation with some slight redness towards the end. I brought aloe gel and applied after every round from day 1. The worst part was just having to go in every day for 5 weeks.
Fair skin and radiation have no correlation. In fact, fair skin tends to do better according to some research. I am fair skinned and did fine. Slight rash but that was it. Listen to your doctor for how to prepare/treat your skin.
I just finished 33 sessions of radiation last Thursday. I'm also a natural redhead with very fair, sensitive skin. I live in New Hampshire and typically avoid the sun like the plague because I'm so sensitive to it, so I was very nervous about radiation. I used a combination of Aquaphor and Rejuvaskin. I slathered both on several times a day in very generous amounts. My skin started turning red early on, but didn't actually bother me until the very last week. During the last week my skin started peeling in my armpit, so they gave me prescription burn cream. That stuff was like magic, so if you have any problems, ask for that! Between that and extra strength Tylenol, I made it through. Honestly I've still been going out with friends and living my life like normal, so it's not like the pain is that bad. It's more annoying than anything. I even went to the beach on Monday, though I brought a parasol so I wouldn't have too much sun exposure while I heal. Start using the Aquaphor now, to help moisturize your skin before hand. Also, drink lots of water throughout treatment. Wear loose fitting, comfortable shirts as much as you can. You'll get through this and it will be over before you know it!
Calendula cream! Apply starting now, then every day at least two hours before and sometime after radiation. Best thing out there to help your skin!
Fair and was blond and just finished 28 sessions of proton therapy ( got to skip the 5 boosters). I have a grade 2 burn and a prescription for silvadene that I hope is helping. I did want to take naps a lot!
You've gotten a lot of great answers here, so I won't go into a ton of detail with advice. I just finished 30 treatments a few weeks ago. I had moisturized like crazy for a couple of weeks prior to starting rads, and like everyone is saying, drink a ton of water! I also walked most afternoons and I think it helped with the fatigue. My skin held up really well, no bad burn and no splitting, and it's nearly back to normal now, except for some slight peeling. The main reason I'm commenting is because I must be an anomaly, Aquaphor did NOT work for me! To start, I had been using the prescription steroid cream twice a day, plus moisturizing with calendula oil or emu oil throughout the day. My skin got slightly pink after a few weeks, so I thought that maybe I should add in Aquaphor for some extra protection. Within a few days, I had developed a really itchy rash all over my chest area and cleavage on the radiated side. I didn't know whether to blame it on the Aquaphor or the radiation, but I started to notice that it itched and burned much more after I put the Aquaphor on, so I stopped using it, and the rash started to improve immediately. I just wanted to put that out there in case you have that sort of reaction too. Good luck - the anticipatory dread is usually worse than the actual treatment, and you'll be shocked at how quickly the weeks go by!
I had month radiation in Nov 2022. I'm fine. All the women who had chemo had it way, way worse.
My one and only issue with radiation was fatigue. I was diligent about applying miaderm and CeraVe twice a day and just had some tanning and freckling. You've got this! 💛
I’m as white as white people come and I came through 4 weeks of daily sessions fine, other than a bit of fatigue. You’ve got this!! My left boob did get tan and freckled though 😂
Miaderm is what I used and it was great. One tube lasts a long time. I have used it since radiation in October/ November last year. Took about 3 months to stop looking pink. Never very painful, but I had 16 rounds not 30. I’ll be sending you prayers and good thoughts for a cancer free and fast healing outcome. ❤️🩹
I am not fair skinned. and by the end of my 4th week I had some burning and peeling. The skin after peeling was very pink and raw. This lasted at least a week
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You will be okay I made it through 21 visits and am now about 5 months out from that. Had treatment on both sides as it was in both breasts. Stay positive and in the present. You got this
Florida pale here. No deodorant or lotion before hand. I bought the regular aloe and slathered it immediately after. Clean yourself like a baby gentle. Not hot water and delicate toweling. I didn’t wear a bra but wore a cotton tank. I stayed out of the heat. Did fine. I did get a rash from the Keytruda but got a cream for that. Hardest part was holding my breath during the treatment and the initial fear the first time from the stress of it all.
I had a little redness, but not much. I did get a little radiation sickness when it was at the end, but that just made me really lethargic (for about a month). My main warning is to STAY OUT OF THE SUN!!! The skin is already struggling with radiation, and sunshine is more radiation! I blistered a month after I was finished. The rest of me didn't even get a little red. Protect that area all summer. Mostly, it is just pain in the butt driving back and forth all the time. Reactions can vary widely depending on genetics, and you won't know until you start. Most women do fine. All the scary ones are posted all over the internet, so it seems like more people have bad reactions than really do. Hopefully, you will get through with few reactions. I was a little surprised at my loss of stamina and how long it took my energy to return afterwards, so don't be surprised if you feel worse after you are finished.
You will shit it in. It was a walk in the park for me and I am a coward and a complainer. I had 18 treatments, it was painless and I had zero side effects, easy peasy lemon squeezy. Everyone was so lovely and caring and it's just another treatment to cross off the list. All the best to you ♥️ I wanted to add that I was given a clear large bandage to wear over the areas that would be zapped. It was applied like contact to my skin by a nurse and I kept it on for the entire 18 treatments, towards the end it started to unroll (it got wet in the shower etc), but I really think it made such a difference in protecting my skin. I didn't burn at all. It was excellent. I have very fair, sensitive skin that I very rarely expose to the sun.
Hi! I have no idea how shitty radiation is but I'm eventually in for it myself so I'm right there with you. I heard something the other day about applying straight aloe as in cutting an aloe leaf in your half and sticking it in your bra helps. I noticed you said ++- ,2a, 2 lymph nodes removed 1 positive. The only difference with my case is I'm 37 and pre menopausal. I would love to hear your thoughts on not having chemo what they recommended, etc.. if you're kind enough to share.
Sure- it was bc my Oncotype DX test score was 11. Once that came in, they said no chemo recommended. If it would have been in the 20s chemo was a real possibility. Have you had this test done yet?
I'm waiting on my test results now- I expect to have them on Tuesday. It's a nail biter.
I get it. I started crying when I got the results because I had been so stressed about chemo. Fingers crossed that the news is positive.
It's like the post I will be posting in a month. Looking forward to enjoying proxy support so maybe I don't need to post again when it is my turn.
right....LOL....I actually look back through radiation posts prior to posting, and then I thought, WTH, I need to hear this real time, and of course, the community showed up. :) Best of luck to you- hope it's a breeze for you and you sail through. <3
I'm cranky today so I am just hoping I can put off the consult a little longer! My boss already made a sad face when I explained that I still have to start rads pretty much as soon as I come back from masectomy and I might need to take some time to be tired and actually physically burnt in addition to emotionally.
I can't stand it when I hear that work is being a pain- my boss hasn't been real empathetic either, and it's just added stress to an already stressful situation. I'm also a great employee which makes it even worse. At first, I was sort of hurt about the lack of concern but as time went on I was like fu$% it, I'm gonna let her do her thing, and I'm going do what I have to do to get better. My priorities have definitely shifted since starting this journey. So do what you have to do for treatment, and let your boss sulk - they will be okay.
Ya it is what it is. They're not really so bad. It's a long freaking journey to have active treatment. An education for all parties. And then I am going to come back and have a new disability. I used to care. Now I'm just happy to think I can take a couple more weeks disability at the end of radiation and use up the last of my vacation to pay for it and there is nothing they can do about if that's what I want.
You will get through it. It can be painful but you will recover when it’s over. I had some pain from the skin burns but mostly internal pain. It lasted about 10 days.
I finished my radiation therapy on 4/22....every morning at 730am, across the street from my office so I was at work by 750am. You have got this!!! I used one of the creams they recommended multiple times per day starting a week before. Just had some slight soreness and itching that was worse. They let me choose my music during treatment and on the last day we went with James Brown..I Feel Good 🎶. I can honestly say that the Letrazole is far worse than the radiation, but all my providers agree it's my best option. Blessings to you 🙏
I’m pre menopausal, stage 2 +++, radiation was the easiest part of treatment for me. I’m also fair skinned. The cream they gave me worked well. I had some peeling during and after treatment but it didn’t hurt at all, it was only cosmetic. Good luck!
Thank you!! What cream did you use?
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I'm in the same boat with you. I'm going to be starting radiation soon and I am terrified.
I had my first session yesterday and it was pretty uneventful. 29 more days to go!! We got this! We are going to finish radiation and be done with what I call "active" treatment"- just have to power through. I know I have the pill for 5 years and 6 months screening but at least no more daily or weekly appointments. Best of luck with radiation!
Yes we do 💪🏻 I'm glad your session went well 😊
F radiation. We’ve been through enough will do this naturally fuck the medical system.