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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.

It’s been 5 weeks after completing radiation, do you still feel zaps and zings on your breast? I feel more now for some reason recently.

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Gurnee, IL
June 25
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A MyBCTeam Member

I did not do radiation, but I did get the zaps after the mastectomy. Apparently as the nerves that were severed/damaged, etc., are regenerating, they send test messages to the brain- nothing is wrong, it is just a part of healing. You know how if you touch something hot- you instinctively draw back? Well, that's because the nerves in your fingers sent the message to your brain, which responded by messaging the muscles to remove yourself from the danger- that's how quick messages can travel!! So, in order to make sure we are able to understand something is wrong- those test messages are part of the rebuilding/healing process. Over time, they diminish in frequency and intensity, until they are more startling than painful- and then one day you realize you haven't had one in ages!! (YAY!!) Hang in there! Hugs!

June 25 (edited)
MyBCTeam

Those "zaps and zings" are very common after radiation — you're definitely not alone in feeling them! They're often described as electric shock sensations and are typically caused by nerve damage or nerve regeneration in the treated area.

At 5 weeks post-radiation, it's actually quite normal to still be experiencing these Show Full Answer

Those "zaps and zings" are very common after radiation — you're definitely not alone in feeling them! They're often described as electric shock sensations and are typically caused by nerve damage or nerve regeneration in the treated area.

At 5 weeks post-radiation, it's actually quite normal to still be experiencing these sensations, and some people notice them continuing or even picking up for a while after treatment ends. MyBCTeam members have shared similar experiences:

- One member described feeling "nipple burning pain and almost like an electric shock in the breast" weeks after treatment
- Another noted electric shock feelings on the way home during radiation, which their care team explained was nerve regeneration
- Some members said sensations faded within months, while others experienced them for years — one member shared it took about four years for theirs to stop

Since your sensations seem to be increasing recently, it's worth mentioning this to your care team. They can help determine whether it's just part of the healing process or something that needs a closer look. Better safe than sorry! 💙

June 25

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