I am going to have radiotherapy after an operation I am wondering about everyones experiences.
Many thanks
Cat
Hi Cat -
I was very anxious about radiotherapy but happy to report that, for me it was not a problem. I had daily sessions for several weeks - with weekends and Easter off.
At my centre, I was given a schedule of appointments and able to tell them the times that best suited me. It worked really well , as I chose early mornings, so mostly 8.30 am ish - there were a couple of times where a machine was out of action and that meant a bit of a delay.
My first appointment was all about positioning. It’s a very precise treatment and pretty important that you’re lined up correctly. The radiographers were so diligent. It took an age. Once they were happy, they tattooed me with tiny marks to ensure that I was lined up exactly in the right place in subsequent sessions. I’m a dreadful wuss, so didn’t like the idea of tattoos at all. Can honestly say I didn’t feel them and they are barely noticeable. In fact, post treatment I now use the centre one to line up my prothesis!
The actual radiotherapy sessions are really quick. It takes longer to undress than to be radiated. The staff line you up, leave the room but are able to check on you and then the machine moves around you treating the area. There’s a bit of a humming sound - like the microwave without the ping. After a few minutes you’re done and able to go. At all times the staff were very considerate and kind.
I had to travel 40 mins to get to the hospital which was a bit of a drag. I found after a few sessions my radiated area was getting pinker. I used aqueous cream to cool it down. As I got further into the treatment I felt tired, and this continued for several weeks after treatment too.
Considering the other treatments we have to endure, I found the radiotherapy the easiest bit!
Hope it all goes smoothly for you too.
Hello, DJD has given you a great reply, I had rads in 2018 and my experience was very similar. Its a chore because you have to go 5 days out of 7 for several weeks, but the actual treatment is pretty easy. Your skin needs to be clean and dry when you have treatment so avoid moisturising beforehand, but its good to use something afterwards. Some people get quite sore and the nurses will recommend creams if needed. I also got a bit tired, mainly towards the end and for the next couple of weeks, but all very manageable. I hope your op goes well, good luck with all your treatment. Love Mo x