Radiation Therapy: What to Expect
Breast Radiation
Peer Review Status: Internally Reviewed by Cancer Center Staff
Creation Date: October 2002
Last Review Date: November 2006
The two side effects that most often affect patients undergoing radiation therapy for breast cancer are fatigue and skin changes. The skin may become red after two weeks of treatment. In rare instances, the skin can blister and peel. These reactions will go away a few weeks after the last radiation treatment. Some women will also have breast swelling and tenderness. A few months after treatments are finished; some women will notice the skin is tan or slightly darker than it was before treatment. Some women notice the breast is a different size and/or is firmer than before treatment.
What can be done about side effects?
- Do not wear a bra, if at all possible. Or wear a bra over a soft white tee shirt. Surgical and sports bras are acceptable.
- Do not wear bras with under wires.
- Ask your doctor/nurse if you can use deodorant.
- Avoid strenuous exercise that will produce excessive sweating. This can cause skin irritation.
To learn more about radiation therapy, contact the Cancer Information Service at: cancer-information@uiowa.edu or 1-800-237-1225.
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