Warning-sign checks
Partial breast radiation therapy - external beam: 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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911Seek emergency help for severe difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, fainting or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
These are not expected routine effects of breast radiation and need immediate assessment.
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen todayContact the team promptly if you develop:
- Blistering, open skin or drainage from the treated area
- Fever with increasing breast redness, warmth or swelling
- Pain that is severe or not controlled by recommended treatment
- New marked swelling of the breast, arm or hand
- A new cough or shortness of breath
- A new or enlarging breast or underarm lump
The article also says
Mild tiredness, breast tenderness and gradual skin colour changes can usually be discussed at a treatment visit.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Partial breast radiation therapy - external beam. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.