Hello I know some of this has been said before but I cant see how to reply in that column so I’m starting a new one. Now I know first of all that I may be more frightened than others I don’t want to assume this is because my situation is more serious, but because I am overseas and on my own. I also am not one to take all the medication proscribed. I could give examples. Anyway I had a ductomectomy I think they said the tumour was 3mm - ie tiny., I will check that I have what to do because they gave me leaflets ie now time to massage it. Yes it is a lot to take in. I did not have time or the sense to ask why they suggest 25 sessions over 5wks. It is the left side, heart side, They said 46g level. Does the level go up over the weeks or is it the same all the time ? What if I say I don’t want radiotherapy? Sorry I don’t want to put ideas in others minds but I am scared of long term damage or getting cancer later on from the radiotherapy ? Someone said to hold my breath for 30 secs ? My appointment is 4th Sept so I have some time to process things
Hello, I have read what is here and some is very close to this but having had a 3mm tumour removed, very very small they say 5wks radiotherapy 5/wk. Does the dosage change or is it the same over time? When in the UK it is just one week, is it a higher dose for a shorter time? What if I don’t have it? I am worried as it is the sid eof my heart. People are telling me that I can hold my breath for 30sec and this helps to protect the heart, I don’t know if they will tell me this at the radiotherapy centre. But also it implies that I need to protect my heart as it could damage them. My lungs are not wonderful, I live with clean air but smoking ‘in my youth’. Thank you for any information
Hi cmiers14
Thank you for contacting Breast Cancer Now with questions about your radiotherapy treatment.
We are a national organisation providing information and support to anyone living in the UK. Because treatments and healthcare services vary so much in different countries it is difficult for us to answer queries from overseas as the information we offer is specific to what is currently available in the UK
It is understandable that you have concerns particularly about long term effects, but we would suggest that you speak to your treatment team about this as they have all the information about your individual situation. You may find it helpful to write down your questions to talk through with your team.
You might find this link helpful in finding a cancer organisation in your country.
Our information about radiotherapy may be of interest but may not be specific to what happens in
Best wishes
Eve
Breast Care Nurse
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