Radiotherapy damaged my heart

Ask our Nurses your questions
1

Hi,

I am 3 months post radiotherapy. I had 15 sessions to left side, doing the breath hold. I had no side effects. However, yesterday I had an ECG because I’m starting ribociclib. The technician printed out the trace so I could take it to the oncologist. It said at the top that it was abnormal and I had moderate ST depression of 0.05+ mv. My last 3 traces during chemo and my diep surgery were all normal. I’m now panicking - the pharmacy rang to say my prescription is waiting and bloods were normal. However, the hospital haven’t got back to me about the ECG yet but I’m worried I’ll be told no ribociclib. I am pretty fit, visiting the gym 3-4x a week, walking a lot and eating well.

Is it possible that radiotherapy damaged my heart?
Is this damage reversible?

Thank you

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Hi bluesatsuma

Thanks for posting on our forum

We hope to be able to respond to you soon.

In the meantime our helpline is open from 9am tomorrow.

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With best wishes.

Lisa

Ask Our Nurses service co-ordinator

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3

@bluesatsuma, so sorry to read this, you have been through so much, I do hope you get some good news very soon.

Sorry I can’t be more help, feel sure the nurses will be back to you very soon. Take good care.

Hugs Tili :pray::rainbow::pray::rainbow:

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Hi bluesatsuma

Thanks for your post. It’s understandable you’re worried you won’t be given ribociclib and asking if the radiotherapy could have caused heart damage.

There is a small risk of having damage to the heart during radiotherapy treatment. However, breath hold technique would decrease this risk significantly.

Your breast care nurse or treatment team are best placed to advise on your individual situation and discuss the findings on your ECG. Do give them a call to talk through how you’re feeling.

We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.

Some people find that talking therapies can help them through this difficult time. You could ask your breast care nurse or GP if they can make a referral for you.

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Best wishes

Addie

Breast Care Nurse

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As we are unable to monitor for further replies, this thread will now be closed. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread, call our helpline, email us or request a call back.