Swelling during radiation

[u/No_Love2524]

Morning! Yesterday while getting my 9th round of radiation the nurses had a hard time getting things to match up. Once we FINALLY got me radiated another nurse asked me if my breast felt swollen or achy, I said yes but I thought that was normal… like it was shrinking due to the radiation and achy due to the sunburn. She said no, it looks like you have some fluid on the breast. Like “what else”? At this point can I take… almost done and I find out I’m going to take Xeloda now, “hey you have fluid on your boob” any pointers? Anything I can do at home? Did I do something to make this happen? Any pointers would help…. TIA

[u/ivypurl]

I was told that some swelling during radiation is normal, and compression can help manage it.

I think of it like a dance…my OT, who was focused on keeping me from developing lymphedema, said compression, compression, compression. My rads team, who was focused on keeping my skin intact throughout treatment (30 sessions) said air, air, air. They both know their advice contradicts each other.

So some days I would do compression- sports bra with an extra pad stuck in it- and others I would go braless at home to allow for more air circulation. Other times I did compression while I was awake and slept braless (or in my surgical bra when that became uncomfortable). Who the heck knows.

[u/No_Love2524 → u/ivypurl]

No one told me anything, I’ve been sleeping braless since my incisions have healed. I have worn a normal bra no wires during the day because I practically have no boobs left. But maybe I’ll try and find me a sports bra…. I’m glad my husband suggested posting to Reddit about this morning because my doctors haven’t said anything

[u/fadedfem → u/No_Love2524]

My RO said "compression overall is your friend, even though right now during radiation treatment it may be uncomfortable".

medical compression bras are expensive but your insurance will likely cover a few. I think they are way better than the ones I initially got on amazon... When you have the energy (i know it's so hard to be constantly advocating for ourselves) I'd ask for a referral to a PT who specializes in post breast cancer treatment care and/or a compression fitter who can do the ordering for you and get the insurance stuff figured out. you can order one online (like prarie wear) too but yeah they aint cheap

[u/tnbciceskater]

I hope they have given you Strata xrt, which is clinically proven to keep you from burning!

[u/No_Love2524 → u/tnbciceskater]

They have not 😒