Too Much Radiation?

[anrean]

I was told Thursday that some of the reason for continued back ache, numbness and difficulty breathing is because of too much chest radiation. Had total of 72 rads visits for 2 breast cancers and 1 mega dose for lung ca. Anyone else hear of this?

[PegD]

I wish I had an answer for you. I can only say that I was told that there was a small chance that I could experience bone pain and possibly pneumonitis after receiving SBRT in January. So far so good.

I hope they are exploring options to make you more comfortable.

Wishing you the best.

~Peg

[judg69]

Andean, the maximum Gy units to the chest for breast or lung cancer is in the range of 40 to 80, at the absolute maximum. The amount of Gy’s used will be adjusted to the lower or higher end based, in part, on whether you are having adjuvant chemotherapy , or have subsequent surgery or chemotherapy scheduled. I would check with all your radiation oncologists and radiation centers you have used to determine the dosage that has been delivered. And yes , each portion of the body has different maximum Gy dosages. I am a lung cancer and prostate cancer survivor, and have had lifetime maximum radiation to my lungs, and also to my prostate. It would be medical malpractice if lifetime maximums were exceeded. Hopefully, this is helpful and after checking with your Dr’s you are more at ease. All Best Wishes, judg69