Radiation Therapy Pain During Breast Cancer: How to Manage & What to Expect

  Рет қаралды 7,325

Yerbba – Breast Cancer

Yerbba – Breast Cancer

5 ай бұрын

How can radiation therapy cause pain? What are the best ways to manage this discomfort? In this video, Dr. Jennifer Griggs offers a comprehensive overview of pain associated with radiation therapy and its management during breast cancer. #breastcancer #radiationtherapy #cancertreatment
Get your personalized Yerbba Report at app.yerbba.com/signup
Connect With Yerbba!
INSTAGRAM: / yerbba
FACEBOOK: / yerbba.breast.cancer
BLOG: www.yerbba.com/blog
Disclaimer: Yerbba KZfaq videos are for informational purposes only, do not constitute medical advice, and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your medical team, mental health professional, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition.

Пікірлер: 67
@naththomas9946
@naththomas9946 2 ай бұрын
Thank you, Dr. Griggs, for your continuous support for breast cancer (health) and awareness.
@yerbba
@yerbba 2 ай бұрын
Thank you for being part of our community. We appreciate you!
@sherinehill9586
@sherinehill9586 24 күн бұрын
Thank GOD for u advising the public
@yerbba
@yerbba 21 күн бұрын
Thank you for watching.
@breast-cancer-rehab
@breast-cancer-rehab 5 ай бұрын
I wish I had a heads up about the longer-term side effects after radiation. Thankfully, there’s a lot that can be done to address this and the despite the fibrosis I would do radiation again given the upside of reducing recurrence. Thx for your videos!
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
We are glad you found this video helpful. It's unfortunate that some of the longer-term side effects of radiation weren't fully communicated beforehand.
@TheyfoundRickGrimes
@TheyfoundRickGrimes 5 ай бұрын
Thankyou so much for the advice, I have radio treatment in the spring - very informative 👍🏻
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
We're glad you found the video helpful. Wishing you all the best with your upcoming radiotherapy treatment in the spring.
@iselasotolongo6695
@iselasotolongo6695 Ай бұрын
Your videos are always so helpful, thank you
@yerbba
@yerbba Ай бұрын
Thank you so much for the positive feedback!
@jeangresty3831
@jeangresty3831 3 ай бұрын
I have three more sessions of Radiation Therapy to go. My specific therapy was Hypofractionated at 42 Gy for a total of 16 days. I've been very lucky to not have skin changes thus far, however, I do have a small blister that developed on the areola of my nipple along with hypersensitivity of the nipple itself - nothing too painful. Of course I had the Radiation Oncologist look at it and he felt that it was nothing to worry about. I all I can say to anyone who will be going through this - use the Ointments, Creams or anything that is recommended to you by your Radiation team faithfully! I applied it three times a day without fail with good results.
@yerbba
@yerbba 2 ай бұрын
It's great to hear you've had minimal side effects with your radiation therapy. Continue using recommended ointments to manage any skin issues, and stay connected with your radiation oncologist for ongoing care.
@lesleynyborg2093
@lesleynyborg2093 5 ай бұрын
Thank you for your videos. I'm 8 months post surgery; lumpectomy, SNB (8 lymph nodes removed, 1 positive) and experienced extreme pain on 1/5. I followed-up with my surgeon who moved up my next scheduled mammogram and radiation oncologist who ordered a MRI and CT scan. I've also been experiencing numbness in my arms to fingertips. I knew I would experience aches/pains/zings and twinges but WOW this hurt. I am seeing PT, again, for weakness on my left-cancer side.
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
Thank you for sharing your experience. It sounds like you're taking proactive steps to address your concerns, which is important. Numbness and weakness may occur after surgery and radiation. You may find our video on peripheral neuropathy that you may find helpful: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/rcuYZrZ4yL2tdoU.html.
@bobbipetty7411
@bobbipetty7411 5 ай бұрын
I was so lucky not to have any burn at all. I got a little pink, but that's it. Chemo on the other hand, was brutal for me.
@cynthiayee5116
@cynthiayee5116 5 ай бұрын
For me Radiation had Burn tisssue and chemo was worst
@TheyfoundRickGrimes
@TheyfoundRickGrimes 5 ай бұрын
Agreed about the Chemo! but just got 2 more to go - whoop! 🎉 ( not going to lie it’s been way harder than I thought it it would be ) but then 16 radiotherapy, so I am a bit worried. On the other hand NOTHING can be worse than chemo can it?! 🤷🏻‍♀️
@nancyferrari6743
@nancyferrari6743 5 ай бұрын
You are very lucky not to have radiation burns. I was so burnt and had 2nd degree burns on my chest. I was unable to finish he last 4 rounds. Grateful my oncologist assured me that 21 rounds was sufficient. Still healing after my last treatment 4 weeks ago!
@cynthiayee5116
@cynthiayee5116 5 ай бұрын
@@nancyferrari6743 I had 22 rounds
@nancyferrari6743
@nancyferrari6743 5 ай бұрын
@@cynthiayee5116 I had 21 but radiation oncologist was urging me to do 4 more. So happy I followed my intuition as I ended up having a staph infection! I knew I was at risk as I had a nasty staph infection 5 weeks after surgery. I don’t think it went away. Back on antibiotics ☹️
@rihamsalah84
@rihamsalah84 5 ай бұрын
Thanks so much , thats exactly what happened to me , my skin was a mess but it recovered after a week , no pain now just some discoloration . Not a big deal . However after 2 months now muscles of chest area still tighten if I missed 1 day of stretching exercise.
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
It's great to hear that your skin recovered relatively quickly from the radiation therapy. Dealing with tight muscles can be challenging, but it's good that you're committed to your stretching exercises to manage it. Thank you for watching.
@LD-Howe
@LD-Howe 5 ай бұрын
Had rad left side collar bone under arm etc. And a few boosts. Had very bad skin reaction but it healed. Was prescribed Silvadene and in 2 to 3 weeks skin sloughing began to heal. Tough treatment but so worth it.
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
Thank you for sharing your experience. It sounds like you went through a challenging time with your radiation treatment, but it's great to hear that the prescribed medication helped with the healing process.
@olgamuszynska2524
@olgamuszynska2524 5 ай бұрын
I had no pain, no skin issues during and after radiotherapy. I had if for 3 weeks, every day. What I am experiencing this days - 3, 4 months after it - is thightness, hardness , stiffness of the area- chest wall, arm, shoulder. Like it wouldn’t be part of my body anymore but hard wooden plank. I’m doing exercises, massages, Pilates ,I use cupping but I don’t really see any improvement 😞 maybe I need more time, maybe it will never be what it was before cancer, chemo, mastectomy and radiation? I don’t know 🤷🏻‍♀️
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
It sounds like you're doing a lot to manage the tightness and stiffness after radiation therapy. It's not uncommon to experience these sensations after treatment, and it's understandable to feel uncertain about whether things will improve over time. Consistent exercise, massages, and other therapies can help, but it's important to be patient with yourself and give your body the time it needs to heal.
@lupecc3587
@lupecc3587 3 ай бұрын
This is me ! I had no problems during radiation, and after not bad at all , I’m 6 months after radiation and still having pain/ tightness/ just a uncomfortable feeling, I do my exercises 2-3 times a week , should I be doing them every day ?
@kimc5321
@kimc5321 9 күн бұрын
Give yourself more grace and time 😇 .. the journey can be a longer process than we want. I was diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer in my right breast in 2017, I opted for a double mastectomy, 4 rounds of chemo and 36 radiation treatments ( 1 positive lymph node out of 6 were removed) in 2018. From radiation treatments, I experienced auxiliary webbing syndrome ( perhaps you are experiencing the same??) and physical therapy along with me maintaining my workouts (weightlifting, yoga, and cardio ) at the gym helped tremendously. My radiation oncologist is the one that diagnosed my webbing and referred me to a physical therapist that specialized in treating it. Just a suggestion maybe you should see if this is what you were experiencing. May God continue to bless you and your continued healing … stay strong…keep the negative thoughts away … we are warriors 💝😇🙏🏾
@sharonclark1709
@sharonclark1709 5 ай бұрын
Could you do a video on radiation fibrosis therapy. I only experienced a bit of the “sunburn” pain but have a lot of pain and tightness months after the radiation
@conniejohnsoncj8724
@conniejohnsoncj8724 5 ай бұрын
If you have access to an osteopath, they are amazing! My arms were very sore from holding them over my head and I went for osteopath treatments and it was alleviated right away and never returned. I do see an osteopath every 6 weeks though for tuneup all over.
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
Sure, thanks for the suggestion.
@juaquiene7726
@juaquiene7726 5 ай бұрын
Some time has passed for me now. Approximately a year. Have had issues with my armpit. From a long lingering seroma. To developing an abscess. Which required weeks of daily treatment.. Even with that healed now. I have a weird spot of mild but prosistant pain. I struggle to come to terms. With what is my new normal? Even my poor breast after a terrible lumpectomy is left with weird bulges. The surgeon sliced through my nipple and put in stitches so tight. My nipple is constantly stimulated. It points upward at an unatural angle. It feeaks me out. I do my best to ignore what I been left with. This I feel is something a woman should be warned about. Before surgery. Your contours are forever changed. Lumps and bumps that sure are alarming but this is the new you. Nerve damage that can be permanent. I feel counselling should be in place to forewarn and prepare a woman. But no, your told nothing. Find things out after the fact. Chemo & radiation can certainly cause changes in your body. That can go on forever.
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
It sounds like you have had a lot of side effects indeed. All of these effects are part of the informed consent process. That is, doctors are required to inform patients about the side effects that are common, uncommon, and rare. The problem is that many people are not able to absorb all the information at the beginning of treatment because of information overload. You can ask your team if you can see the informed consent forms that you signed.
@elainespeirs7800
@elainespeirs7800 3 күн бұрын
I had two bad radiation burns. Ask for treatment as soon as the skin is red or even slightly sore as i waited too long
@nancyferrari6743
@nancyferrari6743 5 ай бұрын
My pain was 10+++ due to severe burns in the collarbone area of my chest. 4 weeks since my last treatment and still oozing in one area.
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
We're so sorry to hear about the intense pain you're experiencing. It sounds incredibly challenging. We would strongly recommend reaching out to your healthcare provider about this as soon as possible. Thank you for sharing your experience with us, and we hope you find relief soon.
@viviennechew2839
@viviennechew2839 5 ай бұрын
pain existed for short period towards the last week of the 5-weeks long radiation. They are not comfortable but manageable, with light medication. However I just had implants exchange surgery, and my radiated side is feeling stiffer and tighter. Surgeon said it is common for areas that have been radiated. Hope this is not permanent and will loosen up over time.
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
It's understandable to feel concerned about the stiffness and tightness, especially after surgery. Your surgeon's reassurance that this is common for radiated areas is reassuring. Hopefully, with time and proper care, it will indeed loosen up. Wishing you a smooth recovery.
@Trish-np6gn
@Trish-np6gn 6 күн бұрын
My dermatologist recommended a hyaluronic acid cream. I don’t know how well it works yet. I start radiation in a couple of weeks.
@NikJSD
@NikJSD 27 күн бұрын
Why does no one talk about the stabbing burning pain inside my breast and chest? I am starting to think the machines I have been treated on - are malfunctioning. 😓😓😓
@yerbba
@yerbba 14 күн бұрын
Stabbing pains are not common, but your experience is very real! It is unlikely that the machines are not working properly. It would be good to talk over your symptoms with your radiation therapy team.
@jessica_7332
@jessica_7332 23 күн бұрын
Hi Dr Griggs, I am grateful to be able to find your youtube channel as it helps me to feel reassured each time. I have a question that I would like to seek your help please. Can you please advise what else can I do to better manage the soreness and moderate pain to my nipple after radiation treatment, other than applying moisturising cream daily? Does apply scarring gel help? Its been a week since completion and sore+pain still persist. Sometimes I felt like crying as the pain would last 30mins or so after each shower even when I gently wash over it. Thank you in advance for your guidance.
@yerbba
@yerbba 14 күн бұрын
We’re glad to hear our channel provides you with reassurance. This sounds really painful! You should be starting to feel better soon. For nipple soreness after radiation, besides moisturizing cream, you might try applying a scarring gel to see if it helps. Cold compresses after showering can also reduce pain and inflammation. It’s important to be gentle with the area and keep communicating with your healthcare team. We’re here to support you, and thank you for sharing your experience.
@tevans4915
@tevans4915 24 күн бұрын
I'm going to radiation therapy (lumpectomy) and this video is so helpful and reassuring. Thank you! I am nervous as I was told my lungs and ribs will be slightly radiated as my chest is shaped like a half barrel. Scary, but I was also told that I will heal and even in my sixties can run a short marathon next year! I did inquire about "Mepitel" film but they are not using it, although I could apply this film if I wanted ... Dr. Griggs, what do you think of Mepitel Film for radiation?
@yerbba
@yerbba 14 күн бұрын
Mepitel Film shows some promise in reducing radiation-induced skin reactions for people with large breasts who are undergoing radiotherapy, particularly those at higher risk for severe reactions. However, it's not a perfect solution for all patients, and more research may be needed to determine its long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness in various clinical settings. Thanks for your question.
@Kantorka2
@Kantorka2 5 ай бұрын
How about long term fibrosis? What do I have to expect?
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
Fibrosis in the area of the breast and chest wall can often be managed well with physical therapy, including massage. Fibrosis in other parts of the body, such as the lung, usually does not cause symptoms since such a tiny portion of the lung receives any radiation.
@catherineclissold3985
@catherineclissold3985 5 ай бұрын
What about pain from fluid pockets. Will the fluid drain away on its own?
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
In general, these pockets do disappear on their own. Some people need to have an aspiration to remove the fluid. This can be done in the office.
@aljettabroughton7502
@aljettabroughton7502 4 ай бұрын
I am thinking about taking radiation but I’m concerned about the effects it has on my white blood platelets being that they are already smaller than they should be. Please let me know your thoughts on this issue. Thanking you in advance. Aljetta B.
@yerbba
@yerbba 3 ай бұрын
Thanks for the question. Radiation therapy can lower white blood cell counts, which is why your medical team will check your blood work. It is unlikely to cause problems in terms of increasing your risk of infection, however. Platelets are unlikely to be lowered in a significant way.
@sobiahayat6880
@sobiahayat6880 5 ай бұрын
Hi , I am feeling pain in my bones after six months of radiation. Pls suggest, What should I do
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
While we can't offer specific medical advice, this type of pain warrants checking in with your medical team. While the pain could be related to the radiation therapy, it may also be due to other things that are treatable. Wishing you the best.
@msladyc_1892
@msladyc_1892 Ай бұрын
How necessary is radiation if the lymph nodes were negative and im ER+her2- im due tp start radiation in two weeks for 4 weeks then tamoxifen after that. But im a little hesitant about radiation and the tamoxifen honestly
@yerbba
@yerbba 14 күн бұрын
It's completely understandable to be hesitant. The necessity of radiation therapy can depend on various factors, including the specifics of your diagnosis and overall treatment plan. Since your lymph nodes are negative and you are ER+ HER2-, your doctor likely recommended radiation to reduce the risk of local recurrence. If you’re based in the U.S., consider visiting app.yerbba.com/signup to access personalized treatment options and navigate your diagnosis with confidence. This comprehensive resource details likelihood levels, pros and cons, and personalized insights for each treatment option. It ensures that you are aware of all possible treatment options, including those that may not have been discussed with your medical team. Your Yerbba Report helps you effectively discuss all possible treatment options with your medical team.
@kathrynhuffman9826
@kathrynhuffman9826 5 ай бұрын
Can you have radiation done in the same spot twice?
@yerbba
@yerbba 4 ай бұрын
In general, it is not recommended to have radiation therapy to the same place twice unless many years have passed. The skin's tolerance for radiation therapy is the main reason we avoid re-radiation. Thanks for watching!
@stardom8182
@stardom8182 2 ай бұрын
Thanks for the video. My mom-in-law is Stage 1 breast cancer, and the doctor is suggesting either “mastectomy without radiation therapy”, OR “Lumptectomy but with radiation therapy”… The issue is that she is a diabetic, and worried that if she does radiation therapy that her burns might not heal as quickly as normal non-diabetic people. We are confused which option is preferable. What would you suggest?
@yerbba
@yerbba 2 ай бұрын
Thanks for the question. If your mom-in-law is being offered both types of surgery, it is likely that both are reasonable options. Most people with diabetes who receive radiation therapy do not experience excessive toxicity, so if she prefers lumpectomy with radiation therapy, this is a good option for her. Of course, everyone is different, and if she has specific concerns, she can ask the radiation oncology team. She is fortunate to have you looking out for her.
@kathyfullarton8126
@kathyfullarton8126 26 күн бұрын
My question does not relate directly to the topic of this video, but I'm hoping you can answer it for me. Why do patients receiving radiation for breast cancer have to remove their clothing during the actual treatment? Patients receive xrays ( chest xrays, CT scans etc) and can wear a Johnny shirt. But when receiving radiation, it must be removed. Radiation would be stronger, I'm assuming, so why must a woman's modesty and dignity have to be sacrificed in order to receive treatment? I have never heard an explanation for this and would appreciate a reply if possible. Thank you
@yerbba
@yerbba 14 күн бұрын
We love that you used the word "dignity," which is one of our core values. (See our video on dignity here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/hLN4mMJylrTRoI0.html People are typically asked to remove clothing covering the treatment area for radiation therapy for several reasons: 1. Precise targeting--radiation therapy requires extremely precise targeting of the affected area. Clothing can interfere with the accurate delivery of radiation to the tumor site. 2. Skin marking: Radiation oncologists often make small marks on the skin to ensure the radiation beam is directed to the exact same spot for each treatment session. Clothing would cover these essential markings. 3. Avoiding interference: Some fabrics, especially those containing metal (like zippers or underwire), can interfere with the radiation beam or potentially cause skin irritation when exposed to radiation. 4. Consistent setup: Having patients remove clothing in the treatment area ensures a consistent setup for each session, which is crucial for the accuracy and effectiveness of the therapy. 5. Dosage accuracy: Clothing can potentially affect the radiation dose reaching the target area, so removing it ensures the prescribed dose is delivered accurately. Patients are typically provided with a gown or other appropriate covering to maintain comfort and modesty while allowing access to the treatment area. Most radiation therapy teams prioritize patient dignity and comfort while ensuring the treatment is delivered as effectively and safely as possible. If you feel you are being exposed for longer than necessary, let your team know. Some people have a higher tolerance for being laid out uncovered, and people who are not as comfortable should be given as much support to maintain their own comfort.
What's the Best Diet for Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer? The Ultimate Guide
7:08
Long-Term Side Effects of Radiation Therapy: A Comprehensive Guide
8:18
Yerbba – Breast Cancer
Рет қаралды 21 М.
Зачем он туда залез?
00:25
Vlad Samokatchik
Рет қаралды 3,1 МЛН
아이스크림으로 체감되는 요즘 물가
00:16
진영민yeongmin
Рет қаралды 59 МЛН
🤔Какой Орган самый длинный ? #shorts
00:42
Хотите поиграть в такую?😄
00:16
МЯТНАЯ ФАНТА
Рет қаралды 3,7 МЛН
RADIATION FOR BREAST CANCER: 5 Tips to Get Ready
7:57
Katie Deming, MD
Рет қаралды 62 М.
SIGNS YOU MIGHT HAVE MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS | MS SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
21:19
Rhian Gibson
Рет қаралды 351 М.
How to Manage Joint Pain From Breast Cancer Treatment: All You Need to Know
10:11
Yerbba – Breast Cancer
Рет қаралды 17 М.
Will I Survive Breast Cancer? A Comprehensive Guide for Every Stage
15:58
Yerbba – Breast Cancer
Рет қаралды 16 М.
How to Reduce Side Effects of Radiation Therapy
8:06
Cancer Rehab PT
Рет қаралды 41 М.
Tamoxifen Side Effects: What to Expect and How to Manage Them
12:51
Yerbba – Breast Cancer
Рет қаралды 3,4 М.
How to Treat Stage I (1) Breast Cancer
18:51
Yerbba – Breast Cancer
Рет қаралды 95 М.
Why Do I Feel So Tired After Radiation
14:04
The Breast Cancer Physio
Рет қаралды 20 М.
Зачем он туда залез?
00:25
Vlad Samokatchik
Рет қаралды 3,1 МЛН