Brain radiotherapy

[KAG123]

Hi my partner has sclc and has had chemo and radiotherapy. They are now advising to have preventative radiotherapy to the brain. Would like others experiences as his scared of the after effects.

[Jacs55]

My husband has sclc as well. He had 10 sessions to his lung and chest. He was very sick during it. As they have to give a bigger dose as it's going to 2 places. He lost all his hair very quickly and couldn't eat whilst having it. My advice be prepared for the worst it might not happen but it may. He had it every day for 10 days he was exhausted and grumpy. We have been lucky his tumor hasn't moved out of his lung but apparently we were told it likes to go the brain after it's left the lung.

Good luck and my very best wishes go with you.

Jackie x

[Pamann247]

Hello KAG123

My husband also was prescribed the same treatment plan you were advised having SCLC

The radiation to his lungs and upper and lower lobes was twenty five days and overlapped with his chemo last round.

. The brain radiation was soon after all that and was ten treatments. He didn't have extreme side effects. Mild headache and the hair along the sides of his head didn't grow back.

Pamela R

[Dismal]

My husband had radiotherapy to the brain for secondaries. No real problems other than hair loss and a 'sunburnt' head. Everyone is different though.

[KAG123]

Thank for sharing your experiences. Very helpful xx

[RoyCastleHelpline Partner Ask the Nurse Roy Castle]

Hello KAG123, as you can see from the previous responses the experience of radiotherapy can vary from person to person which can make it difficult to predict how your partner will tolerate this treatment. If you would like to discuss anything please give us a call on our freephone helpline 0800358 7200

Kind regards

Roy Castle helpline