Radiation therapy is an important part of many breast cancer treatment plans, but it can come with side effects. The good news is that many short-term side effects tend to ease up within four to eight weeks after finishing treatment.
Here are common short-term side effects:
- Skin changes (redness, dryness, peeling Show Full Answer
Radiation therapy is an important part of many breast cancer treatment plans, but it can come with side effects. The good news is that many short-term side effects tend to ease up within four to eight weeks after finishing treatment.
Here are common short-term side effects:
- 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 in the treated area Long-term side effects can appear six months or even years after treatment ends. These may include:
- Skin thickening, darkening, or more visible pores on the treated breast
- Spider veins (small red or purple blood 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 (such as the armpit)
- Possible effects on the heart or lungs, since these organs are located nearby As a MyBCTeam member shared, "You won't feel much of anything at first. Over time, it's like a gradual sunburn." Everyone's experience is different, so it's really important to keep your care team updated on any new or worsening symptoms — the earlier, the better!
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