Fractionated radiation therapy

[carriekartman]

I just finished a series of 5 SRS treatments, and am hit pretty hard with fatigue, imbalance, dizziness, and more muffled hearing on my good side. I was surprised, as all reports were that any symptoms of swelling or other side effects would be months out. I went on a course of steroids after treatment #4,  but think that made it worse (hard to tell: is it the steroids, the tumor, the radiation?) and needed to stop after day 4. Did anyone else suffer similar radiation effects so soon? Any remedies to suggest other than rest, healthy food and ginger?

[mwatto]

I used melatonin to help my neuroinflammation. Specialist okeyed it- only around 3mg its also a radiosensitiser. Otherwise honestly it was sleep and time that helped me. 5 years post CK fractionated.

[DanFouratt]

I had a few of the systems right after radiation.  I was told it was normal and they would pass shortly and they did.  I skipped the steroids.

I had another bout with side affects at the 2 month point, those too passed.

Dan

[carriekartman]

Thanks! I was really taken by surprise. Radiation doc yesterday confirmed that this was not unexpected--and it should improve, but I cannot believe how little post-treatment advice they share until you're in the weeds. . . Sleeping a lot, and doing less of everything (except food: my body wants food!). Lots of odd hearing/tinnitus effects, including really sensitive to some background noises now (the rattling of my colleagues' little bags of chips in a meeting yesterday nearly put me over the edge). As the doc said, "we know we hit the target," given all that's happening.

[DanFouratt]

It will pass and be glad they hit the mark.  You will be feeling better in the near future.

Dan

[dominic12345]

Drink ginger tea,
chew ginger gum.  See a Vestibular therapist immediately.  God’s speed and prayers