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Warning-sign checks

Partial breast brachytherapy: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care for uncontrolled bleeding, severe shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or a severe allergic reaction.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact your treatment team promptly if you develop increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or pain; pus or foul-smelling drainage; fever or chills; a soaked dressing; or an applicator that shifts or comes out.

    Do not try to reposition it yourself.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine mild bruising, tenderness, tiredness, and limited clear or pink drainage can occur.

    Mention symptoms that persist, worsen, or concern you at routine follow-up.

    These are not routine recovery symptoms.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Partial breast brachytherapy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.