What should I expect from radiation therapy - can I work and will I be tired?

I am in the pending starting radiation stage. I hear that side effects are different for everyone but generally somewhat minimal as compared to chemotherapy side effects. I am still working and plan to take a short leave of absence to focus on overall health. Take care.

Many people find they can continue working during radiation therapy, though energy levels and side effects vary from person to person. It's common to experience some fatigue that may build up gradually over the course of treatment, and some find it helpful to plan for shorter days or more flexible schedules if possible. Your healthcare team will be the best source for guidance about what to expect based on your specific treatment plan and overall health.

I had radiation 2x. The first was pelvic for 5+ weeks. The second was breast for 3 weeks. I kept working for both, but got super tired towards the ends and cut back on work a little each time. The breast radiation was much easier, I was prone so only the affected breast got zapped, for the most part. I drove myself also.

I was still working when I was having my radiation. I just went on my lunch break, had the radiation and went back to work. Didn’t notice any fatigue. Only some irritation where they radiated the breast, but I was given cream to put on it so that minimized it. You can drive yourself to and from radiation treatments. It’s not like chemotherapy.

I did 26 radiation treatments M-F. I scheduled them for 3:00. Worked the whole time. Would duck out a little early as the hospital was on my way home. I definitely needed a nap most days after the treatment. But it was definitely manageable. Thankful for that since I used enough sick days between my double mastectomy, chemo, and my reconstruction surgery.

I had 20 treatments of radiation on my right breast. I went at 7am every morning. I then went to work right after. I got tired about week two. Took naps when I was off and went right to bed on my work days when I got home. My skin is quite dark now. I did experience peeling skin. I also had underneath my breast peeling, raw skin which hurt quite a bit. Calendula cream is what I was given, and it worked. For the raw part, I couldn't wear a bra for a while. Still not wearing one until skin stops peeling. I place a soft gauze pad between the skin. That helped a lot. My skin in my armpit area where nodes were also taken looks very bruised, but it doesn't hurt. Just discolored. Aside from the skin issues and fatigue, it was fine. I got through it and am happy my cancer is gone. I drove myself and had no problems with that.

I am starting radiation today. I did apply for leave of absence/FMLA to focus on self care and alleviate stress. I am hearing for radiation treatment it’s not as physically intensive as chemotherapy, though I am still super stressed and don’t want the added layer of worry about work issues!

I would like to thank everyone for sharing.