Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
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.

Radiation side effects

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Alamogordo, NM
June 8
 · 
Reactions
A MyBCTeam Member

Mine as well. You're going to be okay!! You go girl!

June 10 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

I was mostly exhausted. It does get better. A bit of exercise, tons of water and a lot of rest helps tremendously. You just have to make yourself rest when your body is screaming for you to take a break I did have some redness and a bit of blistering like a sunburn at the the site. It was very tender and uncomfortable to wear a bra but that gets better as well. Ask your doctor what he prefers you do if that happens to you. Now I have a bit of scar tissue and purplish/red marks at the site of the surgery. Not bad but its still there. I'm glad I chose to do radiation and chemo. Radiation is quick. You're in and out pretty quickly. Chemo takes a bit longer. Wishing you the very best. Stay in touch so we know how you're doing. Much love and endless hugs! Hoping that info helps you.

June 8 (edited)
A MyBCTeam Member

Adding my prayers too, you’ve got this!😘🙏

June 9
MyBCTeam

Radiation therapy is a powerful tool in treating breast cancer, but it does come with side effects. These can be short-term (appearing during or shortly after treatment) or long-term (developing months or even years later).

Short-Term Side Effects

These tend to be milder and usually improve within 4–8 weeks after finishing Show Full Answer

Radiation therapy is a powerful tool in treating breast cancer, but it does come with side effects. These can be short-term (appearing during or shortly after treatment) or long-term (developing months or even years later).

Short-Term Side Effects

These tend to be milder and usually improve within 4–8 weeks after finishing treatment:

- Skin changes — redness, dryness, peeling, blistering, or a sunburn-like appearance
- Swelling of the breast
- Soreness or tenderness in the breast, nipple, or armpit
- Fatigue that doesn't improve with rest
- Enlarged pores

Long-Term Side Effects

These may appear 6 or more months after treatment ends:

- Skin thickening or darkening in the treated area
- Spider veins (small red/purple vessels) on the breast surface
- Changes in breast size or sensitivity
- Lymphedema (fluid buildup causing swelling in the breast, chest, or arm)
- Hair loss in the treated area (e.g., armpit) Radiation can also affect the heart and lungs, particularly with higher doses or left-sided treatment. Risks include lung inflammation, and heart-related issues like pericarditis (inflammation around the heart).

As one MyBCTeam member described the skin experience: "It's like a gradual sunburn." Everyone's experience is different, so always flag any new or worsening symptoms to your care team promptly.

June 8
A MyBCTeam Member

Keeping you in prayers for all good news delivered quickly! Hope you can skip the chemo! Hugs!

June 9

Related Questions

View All

What are the side effects of radiation for breast cancer

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hawley, PA
2 days ago

What are some of the side effects of low-dose radiation?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Hawley, PA
October 24

12 Tips for Easing Side Effects From Breast Cancer Radiation
Chemotherapy Side Effects: What To Expect
Breast Cancer Treatment Side Effects: Long- and Short-Term Effects