Radiation 101: Lasers, Lingo & Lopsided Tans
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☢️ What Is Radiation Therapy, Anyway?
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill any leftover cancer cells after surgery or shrink tumors before treatment. Think of it as a backup team—mopping up anything surgery or chemo might’ve missed.
🧬 Why It's Used (And Why It Might Be On Your Calendar)
Radiation is not a given for every breast cancer patient, but here’s when it’s commonly used:
- After lumpectomy – to reduce recurrence in the remaining breast tissue.
- After mastectomy – if the tumor was large, close to the chest wall, or if lymph nodes were involved.
- After positive lymph nodes – especially if there were multiple involved or extracapsular extension.
- For metastatic disease – sometimes used to relieve pain or symptoms in bones or other areas.
The decision depends on:
- Cancer stage
- Tumor size and location
- Lymph node involvement
- Whether you had lumpectomy vs. mastectomy
- Your age and general health
💺 The Machine & The Process
Radiation = fast zaps, not drawn-out drips.
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First comes simulation – a dry run with scans and tattoos (tiny dot-size ones) to plan your exact angles (check to see if your clinic offers this).
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Then, you go for daily treatments, for anywhere from 1 to 6 weeks. Since Cancer is corporate, plan on Monday through Friday, excluding major holidays.
Each session lasts ~15 minutes, but most of that is set-up time. The actual zap? A couple minutes depending on prescribed dose and your breathing patterns.
The machine: It’s big, quieter than an MRI, and moves around you without touching you. No pain, no burning, no glowing in the dark.
🩹 Side Effects (and WTF to Do About Them)
Radiation is sneaky. You often don’t feel it... until a few weeks in. The side effects build gradually:
| Common Side Effects | Coping Strategies |
|---|---|
| Skin irritation or burns | Use radiation-approved creams (ask your team), go braless when you can |
| Fatigue | Nap shamelessly, hydrate like hell |
| Breast swelling or heaviness | Ice packs, loose clothing |
| Peeling or itching skin | Pat dry, don’t scratch, moisturize frequently |
| “Radiation tan” or discoloration | Usually fades over months |
| Nipple sensitivity | Use soft fabrics, and protect from rubbing |
Heads up: If you had left-side breast cancer, they may do “deep inspiration breath hold” (DIBH) to protect your heart.
💡 What to Ask Your Radiation Oncologist
- Do I need radiation, and why?
- What’s the total number of sessions?
- Will you target lymph nodes too?
- What’s the plan for skin care?
- What if I miss a day?
- Can I work or exercise during treatment?
👚 Wardrobe Tips From the Zapped
- Button-down shirts are your breasties.
- Go braless or opt for seamless, wire-free bras.
- Unscented deodorant only (if allowed).
- Stock up on aloe, Aquaphor, and a soft towel just for your chest.
🧠 Final Thought
Radiation can feel anticlimactic after the whirlwind of surgery and chemo—but it’s a powerful tool. And you deserve full info, clear options, and no judgment if you feel fried, physically or emotionally.