Experience with palliative radiation?

[Natsmb]

I asked oncologist if palliative radiation to one particular tumor might be a temporary solution to some breathing issues I am having (see below). However, I wonder if others have been through this before and what and if the side affects of the radiation would be worth the pay off?

I have stage four cancer. Ovarian. Lots of little tumors in my belly and lung area. One has metastasized outside of itself and spreading to rib area and keeping my lung from expanding.

What input would you ask have? I see the radiation oncologist next Thursday. If there are any particular questions I should ask I would appreciate you sharing those as well.

I assume that the Radisson is just to shrink that one tumor- I'm under no dilusion it will kill it out prevent regrowth- I was only hoping to relive the current uncomfortable pressure on my right lung and this sort of invasion into my ribs that's causing some discomfort.

Thank you.

[thomas62]

Sorry can't help Natsmb except to say when radiation was mentioned by my oncologist recently it was just to target one small area. The other thing is to keep your skin around the area moisturised - perhaps ladies here might be able to advise re. moisturising and products - you could ask the Nurse on Health Unlocked - they are very helpful.

[62andblue]

My sister, stage 4 OC high grade serous, had radiation just recently for painful abdominal tumor. It was successful in stopping the pain. CAUTION: Your CA125 tests may not be valid during and after radiation. Hers went from 200 to 41, and we thought she was doing so well. But a CT showed her chemo wasnt working (Alimta) and her disease progressed substantially. So heartbreaking. Her oncologist concluded that the course of radiation had invalidated her CA125 tests.

[Natsmb in reply to 62andblue]

Thank you for sharing. That is important for me. I had a couple of other questions, did she experience any major side effects after the radiation such as extreme exhaustion or pain I'm trying to decide if radiation to solve a breathing or pain problem with a growing tumor would be worth it in the event of the tumor begins to become more invasive and creates increasing pressure on my lungs or pain on my spine. I just don't want to trade one set of pain for something worse!

[62andblue in reply to Natsmb]

No, she had problems from the growth of other tumors when she thought Alimta was working and it was not, but not related to the tumor that was zapped. She said that one turned hard and hasnt bothered her since. I am sorry you are facing this problem. I have learned people react differently to cancer treatment. But this one worked for her without any side effects like fatigue or pain. I wish you the very best.

[62andblue in reply to Natsmb]

Forgot to tell you her tumor was below her waist and protruded near the surface. Caused her lots of pain before radiation.