That's a really important question. While pleurisy specifically isn't commonly listed as a named side effect, radiation therapy for breast cancer can cause lung-related complications that may produce similar symptoms — particularly on the treated side.
One condition worth knowing about is pneumonitis, which is inflammation Show Full Answer
That's a really important question. While pleurisy specifically isn't commonly listed as a named side effect, radiation therapy for breast cancer can cause lung-related complications that may produce similar symptoms — particularly on the treated side.
One condition worth knowing about is pneumonitis, which is inflammation or irritation of the lung caused by radiation. It can develop within months of treatment or even years later. Symptoms can include:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
About 38% of people who receive radiation therapy for breast cancer develop some form of pneumonitis, though only 10% experience noticeable symptoms. Another related condition is lung fibrosis, where lung tissue gradually scars and hardens over time. Around 10–15% of people who have radiation for breast cancer develop this. Symptoms include dry cough and shortness of breath.
Both conditions are more common on the side where radiation was given, especially with higher doses. Smoking also significantly increases these risks.
It's really important to bring recurring chest or lung symptoms to your oncologist's attention right away so they can investigate and help manage what you're experiencing.
June 20
Is there any treatment and how long does this last?
June 20
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