Radiation Therapy
How Radiation Therapy is Used in People With Cancer
Radiation therapy (also called radiotherapy) uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Most women receive radiation therapy after breast conservation surgery, and some women receive radiation therapy after a mastectomy. The radiation destroys breast cancer cells before surgery or that may remain in the area following breast cancer surgery.
Some women have radiation therapy before surgery to destroy cancer cells and shrink the tumor. Doctors use this approach when the tumor is large or may be hard to remove. Treatment depends on the size of the tumor and other factors.
Doctors use two types of radiation therapy to treat breast cancer. Some women receive both types:
- External radiation: The radiation comes from a large machine outside the body. Most women go to a hospital or clinic for treatment. Treatments are usually five days a week for several weeks.
- Implant radiation: Thin, plastic tubes that hold a radioactive substance are put directly in the breast. The implant stays in place for several days.
Side Effects
Side effects depend mainly on the dose and type of radiation, and the part of your body that is treated.
It is common for the skin in the treated area to become red, dry, tender and itchy. Your breast may feel heavy and tight, but these problems will go away over time. Toward the end of treatment, your skin may become moist and “weepy.” Exposing this area to air as much as possible can help the skin heal.
Bras and some other types of clothing may rub your skin and cause soreness. You may want to wear loose-fitting cotton clothes during this time. Gentle skin care is also important. You should check with your doctor before using any deodorants, lotions or creams on the treated area. The effects of radiation therapy on your skin will go away, and the area will gradually heal once treatment is over. However, there may be a lasting change in the color of your skin.
You may become very tired during radiation therapy, especially in the later weeks of treatment. Resting is important, but doctors usually advise patients to try to stay as active as they can. Although the side effects of radiation therapy can be distressing, your doctor can usually relieve them.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will I still have feeling in my breast after radiation therapy?
- What does radiation therapy after breast conservation surgery involve?
- Why do I need radiation therapy if the tumor is removed with clear margins?
- Will it increase my risk for other cancers?
- Could the cancer come back if I have breast conservation surgery with radiation?
- Does radiation therapy make the breast hard?
Most women who have breast conservation surgery followed by radiation therapy will still have sensation in their breast.
Keep in mind that the side effects of treatment vary for each person. Some women may have many side effects or complications, others may have very few. Pain medication, physical therapy and other strategies can help women manage side effects and recovery.