Therapeutic Procedures

Information for Patients Receiving Radiation to the Breast

Approximately two weeks after your first treatment, you may begin to experience side effects or symptoms caused by radiation therapy. These symptoms may continue throughout the treatment period and gradually disappear after you have completed treatment. Your physician will tell you which symptoms you are likely to experience, when you will notice them and how long they will last. It is important that you follow the appropriate instructions to minimize your discomfort.

Skin Reaction:

Wash skin in treatment field with Dove unscented or Basis soap.

Do not rub the skin and pat dry with a soft towel.

Do not apply an ointment, salve, deodorant, perfume, cologne, cosmetic or self-remedy to the treated area while you are receiving radiation therapy treatments or for three weeks after treatment is over.

Do not rub, scrub or scratch the skin in the treatment field.

If your skin becomes dry or itches, tell your primary nurse. If necessary, your physician may order a medication especially for this problem.

Do not shave the treated area throughout the treatment period, or until any skin reaction that may have occurred has disappeared.

Do not use hot water bottles, heating lights, electric heating pads or hot packs on the treated area.

Keep the treated areas out of the sun throughout the treatment period.

Be careful of sun exposure of the treated area for at least one year after treatment has ended. You should always use SPF 20 when out in the sun.

Avoid tight fitting clothes. We prefer that you wear a cotton t-shirt or a sports bra, if you have large breasts or are uncomfortable going out without a bra. While you are at home, it is better not to wear any bra or t-shirt and let the air circulate to the treated area.