Radiotherapy on left

Yes that’s a good idea. I’m going to ask them because I’ve had chemo and herceptin plus radiotherapy in the past so I’d really like them to check my heart first even if it delays things slightly! Thanks xx

Glad you haven’t had any problems! :blush:

I had 8 weeks on both sides at different times. No issues what so ever. I went to work every day took an early lunch break got my treatment. By the end I was a little tired which is normal. I was fine for 26 years. Lived a normal active life. So as far as radiation on the left side I had no heart damage.
Unfortunately, 26 yrs later I am dealing with metastatic bone breast cancer. My oncologist right now has it under control. But I learned now enjoy every day. Do whatever you can to prevent even one cell from getting out. Good luck

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Sorry to hear that and thank you! You are right every day is a blessing! Best Wishes to you x

I’m a month out from 16 sessions of full breast radiation on my left side. I just had to do the breath holding, no one plugged my nose like somebody in this conversation had to. They did not mention getting my heart checked, but after reading this I’m a little concerned and I’m going to call my cardiologist and see what he recommends. I have not had any symptoms of any heart issues but from what I’m told the radiation effects will last a few more months, and I don’t know if that can continue to damage my heart.

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Good idea to contact them and see what they say. I hope your fatigue wasn’t too bad!!

Hi I had radiotherapy on my left breast , i had no problems with my heart , i was also worried as i have palpitations and was frightened but the only side affect i had was a bit of shoulder pain from arthropathy which i suffer from so i just had some inflammation. Also i had a bit of burnt skin , a bit like sunburn but they should give you a cream called Flamigel which helps . Good luck . Lorraine

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Thanks Lorraine. I also have a shoulder problem. I’ve had frozen shoulder for about 6 months so I fear this will get worse after treatment. Have you got any tips for shoulder pain? Thanks x

Hi i had some physio which helped a little , you lean forward and let your arm drop in front of you then move it in a circular motion . In the end i had a steroid injection which does help . I had a scan also and i have the start of bursitis which ihad 8 years ago . I had a key hole surgery and that worked great . Try ohysio first though . Hope it works

I had 35 (yes, 35 sessions in 1999, including 8 "boosts) on the left. I was told that in 25 years’ time I might have issues. So far, I have not. I exercise vigorously and I am a professional singer. I still have lots of energy and stamina. I do notice a difference now that I am 72, but attribute it to we weigh the risks and benefits. None of this is fun or easy. I know protocols change over time and am happy to read that people get fewer sessions now. Best of luck.

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oops typo - I attribute it to aging.

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Hi @smiler4 , have you got much movement in your frozen shoulder? Only ask because I had to put both my arms above my head into cup like holders. I suffered from frozen shoulders about 10 years ago and know I could not have coped with radiotherapy at that time. The pain was unbelievable.

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I’ve got more movement than I had. The planning session with my arms in holders was more uncomfortable than unbearable. The pain is worse in bed at night. But not as bad as it has been. The best exercise for me is the pendulum. Everything else hurts. How did you get rid of yours??

Hi Terry I’m glad to hear that you are thriving and active. Thanks for responding!

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@smiler4…I saw a wonderful chiropractor! He gave me exercises to do at home which increased as I went through the various stages.He also carried out deep tissue massage which was heavenly. You have to give it time but need to keep a good range of movement. My first one took about 12 months in total. 18 months later the other one started to freeze but because I knew what it was I started exercises really early . It was far less painful and lasted about 9 months.

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Thanks for the tips. That massage sounds great. I’ve been wandering around with a hot water bottle on my shoulder LOL It’s frustrating because it lingers and in my case it’s come about with menopause. I’m hoping I get away with just one side. I have been thinking about trying acupuncture too!!