Breast Overview
Radiation therapy for breast cancer typically focuses on the breast, chest wall, or nearby lymph nodes. It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, stopping them from growing or spreading.
There are two main types of radiation used:
External beam radiation therapy (EBRT): This is the most common type, where a machine directs radiation at the cancer from outside your body.
Brachytherapy: In some cases, small radioactive seeds are placed inside the body near the cancer.
Role of Radiation Therapy in Breast Cancer
Radiation therapy is often recommended after surgery to:
Lower the risk of cancer coming back in the treated area
Target any remaining cancer cells that couldn’t be seen or removed during surgery
The Treatment Process
Initial Consultation: You’ll meet with your radiation oncologist to discuss the plan and understand how radiation therapy will help.
Planning Session (Simulation): Before treatment begins, you’ll have a planning session where the radiation team maps out the exact area for treatment. This may involve CT scans or other imaging.
Treatment Schedule: Radiation therapy usually takes place 5 days a week for several weeks. Each session lasts about 15-30 minutes. The actual radiation only takes a few minutes, but setting up and positioning might take longer. Your radiation oncologist will tell you how many treatments are recommended
During Treatment: You’ll lie still on a table while a machine delivers the radiation. The process is painless, but you might feel some discomfort due to your arm in the upright position during treatment.
Once a week during your treatment, you will meet with a doctor who will check your skin and help you manage any symptoms.
Possible Side Effects During Radiation
Side effects vary depending on the individual, but some common ones include:
- Skin changes: The treated skin may become red, dry, itchy, or tender.
- Fatigue: Many patients feel tired, especially as treatment progresses.
- Breast swelling: Swelling and tenderness may occur in the treated area.
- Other effects: Some patients experience mild soreness or stiffness in the chest. Few patients will experience nausea.
Most side effects gradually go away after treatment ends, but your care team will help you manage them.
Self Care During Radiation
Here are some tips to take care of yourself during radiation therapy:
Hydration and nutrition: Stay hydrated and eat a healthy, balanced diet to keep your energy up.
Skin care: Use gentle, unscented soap and avoid rubbing the treated skin. We recommend calendula moisturizing cream from Boiron or California Baby. Wear loose, cotton clothing. Do not wear underwire bra. Do not use ice or heat on the area being treated.
Rest: Try to get plenty of rest, as radiation can make you feel more tired than usual.