Those zings and throbbing sensations after radiation are very common and are usually a sign of nerve activity β not cancer returning. It's completely understandable to feel worried, but these sensations are a well-known part of healing.
Here's what many people experience:
- Electric shock or "zing" feelings are often Show Full Answer
Those zings and throbbing sensations after radiation are very common and are usually a sign of nerve activity β not cancer returning. It's completely understandable to feel worried, but these sensations are a well-known part of healing.
Here's what many people experience:
- Electric shock or "zing" feelings are often described as nerve regeneration β your nerves waking back up after being affected by radiation
- Burning or throbbing sensations around the breast, scar, or armpit are also typical post-radiation experiences
- These feelings can last anywhere from a few months to several years β one MyBCTeam member noted it took about four years for theirs to fully stop At 7 weeks post-radiation, many people are still very much in the healing phase. Most short-term side effects tend to ease up around 4 to 8 weeks after finishing treatment, but nerve-related sensations can linger longer.
That said, it's always a good idea to mention any new or worsening sensations to your care team β not to alarm you, but so they can reassure you and offer relief options if needed. You deserve both peace of mind and comfort! π
July 6
Thank you! Iβm glad to know itβs normal!
July 7
Mine with mastectomy went on for months! The nerves are sending test messages to your brain to determine if the "connection" is working properly- though uncomfortable, a definite sign of healing! Over time, they lessen in frequency and intensity until they are more startling than painful, then one day you realize it has been forever since you had one! Keep on healing! Hugs!
July 7
I had my double mastectomy in 2017. I still get the various types of zaps, zingsaand phantom nipple pain occasionally. At first it happened multiple times per day, but over time the frequency decreased. Nowadays it will happen 3 or 4 times a week.
July 7
I remember having zings or zaps, they will go away eventually.
July 7