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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I am concerned about radiation? Early & late side effects and chances of causing other problems and another cancer.

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Pittsburgh, PA

My diagnosis DCIS w/ small focus of IDC. Grade 1.
Er+ PR+ Her2 neg. Ki67- low 9%
Surgery successful w/ no lymph node involvement.

November 6, 2024 (edited)
 · 
Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

Cheryl, I don't understand why you just couldn't take a hormone blocker.
DCIS Grade 1 Ki67 9% I would think a hormone blocker would be enough. I think most doctors go for overkill. This is my opinion but when women ask questions, they want answers and everything we say is our opinion. Other women may disagree and that is fine .

April 22, 2025
MyBCTeam

Radiation therapy for breast cancer can have both early and late side effects, and there is a slight risk of developing another cancer later. Here are some details:

Early Side Effects
- Skin Changes: Redness, dryness, peeling, blistering, irritation, itching, swelling, or appearing sunburned or tanned.
- Fatigue: Show Full Answer

Radiation therapy for breast cancer can have both early and late side effects, and there is a slight risk of developing another cancer later. Here are some details:

Early Side Effects:
- Skin Changes: Redness, dryness, peeling, blistering, irritation, itching, swelling, or appearing sunburned or tanned.
- Fatigue: Tiredness or weakness that may not improve with rest.
- Soreness: Tenderness in the breast, nipple, or armpit.
- Infection: Around a brachytherapy device if used.

Late Side Effects:
- Skin Changes: Darker color, thicker skin, or more visible pores on the treated breast.
- Telangiectasias: Spider veins, a group of red or purple blood vessels.
- Sensitivity Changes: Greater or less sensitivity in the treated breast.
- Size Changes: Increased or decreased size of the breast.
- Lymphedema: Swelling in the breast, chest, or arm.
- Hair Loss: In the treated area, such as the armpit.
- Nearby Tissue Changes: Possible broken rib, lung inflammation (pneumonitis), heart tissue or blood vessel damage, irregular or skipped heartbeats, or numbness or tingling in the shoulder or arm.

Risk of Developing Another Cancer:
- Slightly Increased Risk: There is a slightly increased risk of developing another cancer later, but this is rare due to advancements in radiation technology that allow for more accurate treatment.

Recommendations:
- Discuss with Your Doctor: Always talk with your treatment team about any new symptoms or concerns.
- Self-Care: Use moisturizers, stay active, get good nutrition, hydrate, and rest to help manage side effects.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the resources provided by MyBCTeam.

November 6, 2024
A MyBCTeam Member

Thank you!!

April 22, 2025
A MyBCTeam Member

Congratulations on a successful surgery with clear lymph nodes. I did not have radiation, so no advice, just lots of well wishes for your next phase of getting healthy again! Hugs!

November 7, 2024

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