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Does Radiation Cause Any Side Effects While Suffering From Lymphedema And Heart Problem?
Posted on
Mon, 16 Mar 2015
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Mon, 16 Mar 2015
Answered on
Mon, 6 Apr 2015
Last reviewed on
Question : XXXXXXX 16 had L-lumpectomy Duct was Stage 0, but outside Stage 1A. Under arm (2 n0des removed & cancer free) developed large swollen egg and was aspirated w/2 needles full clear fluid & then did massage therapy to prevent lymphedema. Underarm still has scarring & swelling. Radiologist wants to do 20 treatments NOW. My concern is getting lymphedema; which I already have from R-lumpectomy in 2002 (infection). Also have some heart problems cardiomyopathy (pericarditis) & COPD. Will 20 treatments add to my existing problems at age 75. I don't believe in grass growing under my feet.
Brief Answer:
Radiation to be avoided in patients having lymphedema and heart problem
Detailed Answer:
Hi
20 treatments of radiation therapy can damage otherwise healthy lymph nodes and vessels and can cause scarring of the lymphatic vessels which leads to fibrosis and subsequently diminish lymphatic flow.
As swelling is already present before radiation treatment from right lumpectomy i would advise you to avoid radiation as the condition may get worse with radiation therapy.
As you are already have history of cardiomyopathy and COPD you need to avoid radiation at this age because it causes congestive heart failure and abnormality in how the heart fills with blood which is called diastolic dysfunction.
Radition causes heart muscles not to relax in a normal manner and the heart may fill too slowly causing myocardial dysfunction.
Regards
DR DE
Radiation to be avoided in patients having lymphedema and heart problem
Detailed Answer:
Hi
20 treatments of radiation therapy can damage otherwise healthy lymph nodes and vessels and can cause scarring of the lymphatic vessels which leads to fibrosis and subsequently diminish lymphatic flow.
As swelling is already present before radiation treatment from right lumpectomy i would advise you to avoid radiation as the condition may get worse with radiation therapy.
As you are already have history of cardiomyopathy and COPD you need to avoid radiation at this age because it causes congestive heart failure and abnormality in how the heart fills with blood which is called diastolic dysfunction.
Radition causes heart muscles not to relax in a normal manner and the heart may fill too slowly causing myocardial dysfunction.
Regards
DR DE
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Pradeep Vitta
Answered by
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