Skin reactions following radiotherapy are usually at their worst around 10 to 14 days after treatment. Your skin should then start to heal, and is often much better within 4 to 6 weeks after treatment.
Now that you have finished your radiotherapy, continue to moisturise using the moisturiser you used throughout treatment. If you have not been using one, start to use a moisturiser that is unperfumed and suits your skin. If you have a new moisturiser, test it on the back of your hand first to make sure you do not have a reaction to it.
If your skin becomes itchy, you can buy 1% hydrocortisone cream from your local chemist. Use a small amount, twice a day, on the area that is affected. Only use it for a maximum of 14 days. Continue to moisturise the rest of your breast or chest wall with your regular moisturiser.
Take paracetamol or an anti-inflammatory medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen can help to relieve any discomfort from the skin reaction.
Some patients may experience moist desquamation. This is when your skin blisters and peels, and you can see fresh skin underneath. It can sometimes appear 'sticky' with a green/yellowish fluid. This is a normal reaction after radiotherapy.
If moist desquamation happens:
avoid moisturising the area
keep the area clean. Wash with lukewarm water and pat it dry with a soft clean towel. If there is a layer of greenish/yellowish fluid avoid cleaning this away as it helps with the healing process
allow as much air to the area as possible. Try to wear loose clothing and no bra when possible
if the moist desquamation is under your breast, for temporary relief you can place a folded handkerchief there. To avoid this sticking to your skin, make sure the handkerchief is made from natural fibres such as 100% silk or cotton
use Flaminal® Hydro/Forte (a cream wound dressing) on its own or with a non-stick foam dressing
do not use dressings with sticky edges
we recommend PolyMem® which contain a gentle wound cleanser and a soothing moisteriser
if using PolyMem® dressing, you do not need to use Flaminal® Hydro/Forte
if you need any further dressing after you have finished treatment at The Christie, please contact your GP or healthcare provider
If you need extra support, speak to your GP and take this leaflet with you.
Occasionally an infection can occur. Signs of infection include:
swelling, redness and increasing pain in the affected area
pus (discharge) forming in or around the wound
feeling generally unwell
a high temperature (fever) of 37.5°C or above.
If you think you may have an infection, contact your GP for advice. They may want to examine the area, take a swab, and decide if you need antibiotics.
Contacts
For further advice or support please contact the radiotherapy team where you were treated:
The Christie main site in Withington - 0161 956 1187
The Christie at Oldham - 0161 918 7700
The Christie at Salford - 0161 918 7800
The Christie at Macclesfield - 0161 956 1700
Proton beam therapy centre - 0161 918 7273
For out of hours or urgent advice, please contact The Christie Hotline on 0161 446 3658 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).