Increase in Physical Activity After Radiation Therapy May Improve Fatigue, Shortness of Breath in Cancer Patients.

[2greys]

Radiation doses to the heart that occur during radiation therapy treatments for lung cancer, breast cancer and lymphoma may increase fatigue and cause difficulty breathing in cancer patients, according to research presented Feb. 14 at ACC's Advancing the Cardiovascular Care of the Oncology Patient course in Washington, DC. However, engaging in more physical activity prior to treatment may improve these symptoms.

acc.org/latest-in-cardiolog...

[jackdup]

Is there any chance that your increased breathlessness is a result of possible damage to your heart as a result of the radiation you had?

[2greys in reply to jackdup]

I don't think so. I am already in the care of the Cardiology Clinic as well, so if the Respiratory Clinic cannot pin it down then I will get transferred to them as a matter of course. I just have to wait and see.

[jackdup in reply to 2greys]

Wishing you well.

[2greys in reply to jackdup]

Thank you. I also lead what is considered an very active life. Most days being on my feet for 8 hours a day. Even during radiotherapy treatment I still went to work, not having any fatigue problems with it. That was now 2 years ago.

[jackdup in reply to 2greys]

I have kept up with your posts especially as they related to nodules and cancer and the many replies and advice you have provided to others in similar situations, and have always been impressed that you were able to continue to work with your reduced FEV1 and then the cancer treatment. I have no doubt it is disheartening now to be facing additional challenges but am really hoping and praying they will turn out to be something manageable.