šStarting radiation in January 2026? You donāt have to walk this road alone.š
This is a space for all of us traveling the radiation road togetherāto connect, encourage one another, and lean on shared experience.
Whether youāre just getting your start date or already a few sessions in, we invite you to jump in and share:
- Your diagnosis and any treatments youāve already had
- Your radiation start date and schedule
- What youāre feelingāphysically and emotionally
- Questions, concerns, or āis this normal?ā moments
- Tips, reassurance, and wisdom from those whoāve already been there
If youāve completed radiation or are further along, your voice matters so much here. What you learned could make someone elseās path feel lighter and less scary.
To help you prepare, be sure to check out our List of What to Do/Get/Pack to Prep for Radiation Therapy. Youāll also find a wealth of helpful information in our Radiation Therapy section, including types of radiation, what to expect, questions to ask your care team, and ways to manageāor even preventāside effects.
And if youāre looking for deeper connection, our Virtual Support Groups are here for you during treatmentāand beyond.
Weāre so glad youāre here. This community is ready to support you every step of the way.
š Youāve got thisāand weāve got you.
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Comments
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I just wanted to mention a side effect that I had this year from Rads on my C7/T1 vertebrae last year, I am not sure if this is the right topic/forum for this but here goes.''I was having hoarseness and a cough at the beginning of June this year and notice my voice was getting worse, I started having choking and swallowing issues and mentioned it to my Oncologist who then set up a scope to be done to see what was going on. It turned out that I had scar tissue built up from the radiation on the back of my neck which is apparently quiet common and this was causing the issue, I had two scopes done and they stretched out the blockage with a balloon and now I am back to feeling great without any issues and my voice has returned to normal.Hope this helps someone with similar issues.
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I had my follow up visit today with my surgical oncologist after my lumpectomy. She made the referral to the oncologist and oncology radiologist and I am hoping to have appointments with each over the next two weeks or so. I am nervous about the radiation to say the least! Any information given would be greatly appreciated! My DX is IDC stage 2 ER+ 100% PR + 40% and HER2- low. My sentinel node was negative. I am post menopausal and have not started any medications yet or received any treatments other than the lumpectomy which was two weeks ago. Still waiting on my oncotype results. Any advice to prepare for radiation would help so much! Thanks!
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@farmerswife72 Check out this post:
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Thanks for all of the tips. My lumpectomy was on Dec 19. Next step is radiation. I donāt have an appointment yet but I should start this month.
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I have had radiation a few times over the last 30 years all without major side-effects or skin issues other then being a little pink and hot at the site. My last treatment on my vertebrae did cause some scaring on the inside of my troath which caused some choking issues and was resolved by a scope and being stretched out, apparently this is quite common.
I did feel tired and took naps when I did, part of that was also driving 1.5 hrs each way for the treatments over 2 weeks. Just give yourself time to relax after and listen to your body and follow instructions like avoiding hot showers or bath after, I used a wrapped ice pack on the site to cool things down and it helped.
You Got This ššŖš
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I have had 5 radiations out of 11. I get absolutely exhausted and sleep after my treatment. Will this diminish after treatment?
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@farmerswife72 & @cosun10 I finished my radiation treatments in November. I had 20 treatments, 16 whole breast and 4 targeted. Please keep in mind that every treatment center will handle things in a different way so this is just my experience. I hope this isn't too long but I thought you might want some details.
The first things they will do is take markings. This involves figuring out exactly where to give you the treatments and you will get an actual tattoo dot in the places they need to use for the treatments. They are tiny and you won't see them. They will also probably put stickers on you with arrows or something. Don't panic over these. If they fall off they can figure out where they were by the tattoos. I had a had a hard time with my first few treatments. My rad oncologist and the technicians were all great but I found the experience humiliating and sat in my car crying afterwards. The instructions said to take off your bra and top and put on this robe they provided and that you could put a jacket over it if you wanted. After the 3rd treatment I thought this is dumb and just changed into a hoodie and took it off for treatments. The techs didn't care and for some reason taking that little bit of control helped me. If you are comfortable without wearing a bra just come in only a hoodie. The treatment itself was not that bad. It only takes a few minutes. I was on a my stomach and couldn't see what was going on during it. Some people pray or meditate, or make a grocery list in their to try and keep still. I counted, that way I had I had a good idea how much longer it would be before the end. I only had two real issues during the treatments both times I politely asked the techs about making adjustments and they did so if you have a problem ask. The hardest part of the actual treatments for me was having to be some place every day for 4 weeks at the same time.
I had some fatigue and some skin peeling but nothing bad. My Rad Onc had proscribed some steroid cream that I used and it helped. My worse issue was around my areola and nipple. It became very tender and sore and it is still sore a month later. Because of the way my arms were positioned my shoulders and back hurt after the treatments and I finally started taking some Advil about 30 minutes before the treatment and that helped. I had some seromas that also made it uncomfortable. I got a little irritated because doctors, nurses, PAs, etc. all act like they are no big deal. They will just tell you they will eventually go away. Most of mine have but I still have a couple that can be painful.
I met with my doctor once a week during treatment and pretty much every issue I had he just said was normal so I just pushed through. I am still tender in some places both from the surgery and the treatments and it seems like every morning when I get up I spend the first half-hour massaging the areas to try and get them feeling ok. I actually started having more fatigue about two weeks after the treatment was over but again was told that was normal. I have started back doing light exercises to try and keep the stiffness down.
I wish you all the best of luck with your treatments and I wish you strength and patience.
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I too get a little irritated at the attitude on the part of the doctors and nurses who ask how you are doing, want to hear what's going on, then say "oh that's common" or "a lot of women report that." It seems dismissive.
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How soon after diagnosis should radiation start? Sept 11 2025, something found on mammogram told to come back on Sept. 29 for second look. On second look, Nottingham scale 8 out of 9 invasive lobular cancer 2with ragged margins. Lumpectomy Surgery Nov. 18,2025. Clean margins but three lymph nodes with cancer ( that was not seen on MRI) and large areas of both ductial and lobular in situ in addition original lump (also not found on MRI) Onto CT simulation and tattoos Dec 23, 2025. And still waiting for scheduling. My cancer is sneaky and I want to Zap it ASAP.
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@jmjminivanmom I was diagnosed the end of July. I had my lumpectomy on August 28th. I started my radiation treatments on October 20th. They won't start the radiation until they consider the area where the surgery was healed, usually I think at least a month or two.
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@unflintching I don't even really bother to answer any longer when they ask how I am. I just shrug and say o.k. Seems like everything I thought might be an issue or that has caused me pain or discomfort they dismiss. The part that bother me the most is how dismissive they all are about my concerns about the long term effects of the Anastrozole
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I'm supposed to start tomorrow but have been pretty frustrated during and since the simulation. No one who can answer any of my questions has been available to talk to me about concerns that rose out of the simulation, where my care plan was changed with no explanation. I'm worried about being changed from prone to supine position, and also worried because I burn easily in the sun and have since learned that could bode poorly for me in radiation. I am grateful for this site and for the Tuesday Zoom where I learn so much the doctor and therapists don't tell you. I just wanted to reschedule my treatment until the doctor returns and can answer my questions but the staff freaked out at my suggesting a reschedule. Now, I see they scheduled me for a second simulation just prior to my radiation therapy appointment. Is that normal? Does everyone get a second simulation or is it likely scheduled because I voiced a concern? No one called to tell me. I just saw it in the portal.
DCIS Stage 0 Grade 3. Completed surgery and a second surgery to clear a margin. Late September Diagnosis. Mid November surgeries.
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hello to all
I was diagnosed in June/2025 after a mamm, then a magnification mamm, then a needle biopsy, and then a contrast mamm.
My diagnosis was DCIS Stage 0 Grade 3 HR+
I had a lumpectomy in Sept/25 with clear margins. No lymp nodes were removed
I went for CT SIM beginning of Nov. I also had to have the Sim redone as well. I was told that my alignment had shifted. The only thing I had done from the time I had my first Sim was go for a massage. I asked and was told it was ok to go, and that should not have made a difference. But in my case it did!! So they needed to take new measurements, which delayed my radiation (I had one treatment, then had the CT SIM redone)
Radiation began about 8 weeks after surgery to allow for the scar tissue from the surgery to heal.
I had 9 treatments total. 5 full breast and 4 partial. I am left breast so for the 5 whole rad I had to hold my breath which was a bit of a challenge but I got through it. This was to keep the radiation away from the heart.
Long long story but this is why I had the SIM redone. Because I couldnāt reach my baseline to hold my breath and when they went to do the treatment with me not holding breath thatās when they noticed my alignment shifted. I was able to hold my breath with a lower baseline that was set at the second SIM.. hope that makes sense
Side effects.. urgghhh.HORRIBLE!
I tell people that I take things hour by hour and NOT day by day!!
In regards to feeling fatigued, I slept in every morning and took a nap in the afternoon every day. I did rest a lot and stayed off my feet, so that helped. I was so swollen.. and still am, although it has gone down a bit, red, tender and darkened skin that started to peel. I also have sharp jabbing stabbing pains on and off during the day and night. And pain that goes up towards my armpit. Also, the areola and nipple causes me discomfort as well. I find myself ācuppingā my breat with my hand and that seems to help with comfort level.
My last rad was Dec 15. At Day 4, I was crying and asked my RO for a prescription for pain meds which she gave me.The one thing that I did do during the treatment, I came up with my own mantra and kept repeating it in my head!!
I started applying Lubriderm cream 2-3 times a day under the direction of my RO. (I was given a list of creams to choose from and went with that one) and started that right after CT SIM . Havenāt worn a bra.. I wear a sports bra from the time I had the lumpectomy.
Next step in my journey.. Physio and massage, after I meet with my oncologist next week.
Luckily I have been off work this entire time but am scheduled to go back Jan 19! I wonāt be fully recovered, and from what I have heard and read it can take a few months
Hope this helps! All the best
Embracing with strength
Redwinelover š
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Has anyone on here switched providers in after having the simulation and one or more radiation treatments? Is that absolutely nuts?
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Scheduled for radiation sim next week. Finished four cycles of TC chemo about a month ago. Feeling a little nervous about radiation. I have a general idea what to expect in sim, but afraid of an unpleasant surprise or two. Any words of wisdom or encouragement?
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I finished TC chemo on Dec 10, and my first radiation is on Jan 14. I have had a positive initial experience with the radiation department. I had a CT scan two days ago and placement of the marker tape. The techs were very kind and patient in their instructions to me. I was on my back during the CT scan and was instructed to hold my breath into my chest and not my abdomen, and to try and keep my back still. The nurse suggested I practice holding my breath for 20-30 seconds. I was also told to start using the Calendula cream now before treatment even starts, and to apply it to a pretty wide area on my skin- my breast, armpit area, and above my breast.
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hi@unflintchingandhi@tribblesmom
I am wishing you both all the best as you start this next phase in your journey.
As I said in an earlier message, I did finish 9 rounds of radiation on Dec 15.
Words of encouragement, I would say to come up with a āmantraā or something to repeat in your head during the treatment. Something to stay focused on. And I would remember that one treatment at a time gets me closer to the end. But believe me!! I had many tears during the process and just wanting to be done!!
Take care and REST after each treatment. Be at home and in a comfortable surrounding. Whether that is bed, or the couch etc!!
All the techs were super friendly with me and showed empathy.
Once you go into the treatment room, you will lay down on what is just like the table that you were on from the CT SIM. CT SIM is nothing to worry about. Just to lay down and follow their instructions as they take measurements!! Although it is a bit emotional as this is the beginning of the radiation process.
The biggest thing is just to lay still. And then I was asked to raise my left arm above my head and they let it rest in this arm holder. That is when I would say my mantra.
All the machines will move around you
Your job is to just lay still!!!
And same as tribblesmom
Applying the cream 2-3 times a day to the same area you are describing. I did that and continue to do so. And I was also told to start the day I had the CT SIM. Same thing with practicing to hold breath.
Wishing you all the best!!! Keep us posted!! š
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Hello@redwinelover Sounds like you had a difficult road with radiation. In the midst of this, you had the kindness to comfort me. I appreciate your suggestions and will get started with using the cream now. Take care of yourself and I hope you can feel supported by co-workers as you return to work.
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Hello@tribblesmom Thank you for taking the time to respond to my post. I appreciate your suggestions and wish you well on your journey.
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Hello @unflintching- good luck with your treatment as well! Letās hope for a smooth (boring!) process for all of us.
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Does anyone else feel like the clinic staff just reads from the corporate handbook when responding to a question or comment? Feeling nervous "Oh you've got a really good team" Feeling scared, anxious, uncertain about the unknown. "Oh the team here is really good." or "Oh, you have Dr. Fill-in-the-blank, he/she's excellent." I'm not sure what I expect them to say, but after the second or third time hearing it from different staff it just rings hollow.
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@unflintching My favorite is the rote response to any questions about symptoms or issues you are having., "oh that's normal" and "we have a lot of people report that symptom." Just because it is "normal" doesn't mean it isn't concerning or painful.. The worse is how they just dismiss the discomfort caused by the seromas and the tenderness/pain I have in some areas. Don't even get me started again on hoe they dismiss concerns on SEs from treatments and medications.
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@July31 Right?! What do they expect the dismissive comments will accomplish? Shut up and go away? Would it be too much to at least say "I'm sorry this is happening to you, I wish there was more we could do?"
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@unflintching My sister and I have had a running "joke" for years that if you are a woman and go to the doctor with a question/complaint, unless bone is sticking out or you are bleeding from some place you shouldn't be, they are going to just blame it on hormones and dismiss it or offer you antidepressants. I had hoped for better from people who have so many female patients.
I was reading the notes my Onc's PA wrote from a recent visit and she implied that I was either lying or being whiny (my words). In another place she actually lied about something that she said. I have decided from now on I'm just saving myself the bother and just answering that I'm fine or ok to every question they ask. It will just be easier.Here's hoping you can find someone with some compassion, empathy, and actual information.
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hi everyone- hope radiation is going well with you all. Wanted to share that I had a rash, probably due to a reaction to Calendula? Which showed up after 2 treatments, and despite my having started using the Calendula a week before the start of treatment with no issues. The nurses were surprised that I had such a reaction so early. The rash was mild but itchy- the radiation oncologist and nurses had me stop the calendula, use triamcinolone cream/ointment instead and also use aquaphor at night. I also took an Allegra that helped with the itch, and the rash went away and hopefully will not return!
Good luck everyone!0 -
hi@unflintching and to everyone else
So sorry to hear that your words are being dismissed. That is so unprofessional and inconsiderate.
I remember saying to my team.. I am nauseous, and the response I received was.. Breast Rad does not cause nausea. That would be my only negative comment. Also, NOT being told about the stabbing jabbing pain either.
I had my last Radiation on Dec 15 and I still have a bit of that jabbing pain on and off. Also discomfort that goes up into my armpit. I am waiting now for a consult appt for Physio
My cancer team were amazing though.. if Iām being honest. I was offered services of a social worker as well, which I declined. I found that the women on this forum to be so helpful and therapeutic! š
I went back to work with gradual return ti work hours on Mon Jan 19. Everyone has been amazing. Understanding and accommodating when I need to take extra breaks throughout the day.. as I had an āon my feet all dayā job
Wishing all of you continued healing as you move forward in your journey!!
Embracing with strength!!
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I finished my 11th treatment 2,weeks ago and I can hardly sleep because of radiation burn, which they said would go away. I use creamā¦but curious what kind if pain killers you guys are on. They put me on morphine which makes me very anxious. š¬ I am unable to sleep because of pain and afraid to take any sleep aid because of all Iāve read about with morphine. Does pain ever go away? And then they prescribed Gabapentin which I havenāt used because one of the side effects are suicidal thought! Iām scared enough and thatās all I need. And suggestions. Thanks ladies š„°
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Thank you for all of the detailed messages about your experiences. It has been so helpful as I get started. I have finished all of the prep and tomorrow is my first of 20 treatments. I met with the nurse today to go over side effects. Nausea was one of the things we talked about. Mostly, we will address them as needed. Iām the most nervous about the fatigue. I was surprised by how tired I was after my lumpectomy so Iām worried that this will be rough. Iām planning to work mornings and have my treatments in the afternoon. Iāll take off work at the end if I need to.
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hi@xsuzx
Hmmm.. I just made a post to you and hi@cosun10 but donāt see it!!
I realized after I posted, I donāt think I answered your question.
The pain and discomfort have gone away for the most part
I still have some swelling, jabbing stabbing pain that is on and off throughout the day. and this radiating pain up into the armpit
Butā¦ it does get better with time!! š
I hope my previous message reaches both of you
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hi@xsuzxandhi@cosun10
I am nodding my head as I read both your messages!!
I had a lot of redness and was tender and swollen. Yes, I also felt the radiation burn and was in tears after Day 4 of 9.
I live in Canada..and was given Tylenol 3. It is a pain killer that has Tylenol,Codeine and Caffeine in it. That helped as well as cold compresses. I was told to NOT use an ice pack so it was just cold water on a wash cloth.
And also applied the Lubriderm cream 2-3 times a day. I was lucky as I only had peeling skin a few days.
Thank you for mentioning nausea cosun10!!
You just validated what I also experience.
I also had nausea but my team at the cancer centre would tell me that Breast Rad does not cause nausea. So I was also taking Gravol for that.
Fatigue.. itās weird.. I didnāt feel overly fatigued but that may be because I was off work from the time of my lumpectomy and all the way through radiation. So I slept in every morning and also took a nap in the afternoon. And my husband helped with dinners. Try not to overthink the fatigue š So I didnāt focus my mind on that. I hurt mostly from the jabbing stabbing pain, the swelling and red and tenderness.. and yes .. also had a very hard time laying down and sleeping at night
I had my last treatment Dec 15 and I still have some discomfort. Pain that goes up and into my armpit. And still have this jabbing stabbing pain once in a while in the nipple areola area. I am waiting for a referral for Physio and am going for massage as well.
And .. still have some inner scar tissue from the lumpectomy. still wearing a sports bra as well
if you are worried about the Gabapentin.. have you asked about Physio?? If you were prescribed Morphine.. maybe just take it at bedtime so you wonāt be in pain at night and can sleep
Sending positive thoughts as we all continue on this journey š
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