I had RT for vocal cord cancer ( 4 weeks, Mon - Fri ) which finished 23rd April. I was dreading it as I had to wear the dreaded “ mask “ and be literally screwed to the table for 20 mins each day. Foolishly I researched on google and read horror stories so expected a rough ride. I sailed through with barely any side effects, the worst being a non stop hacking cough which lasted for 2 weeks. I did get more tired than usual but nothing that couldn’t be coped with. The RT technicians and nurses appear to be universally brilliant and really support you through the course of treatment. Time spent on the table is totally painless. So my advice would be, don’t approach this with any preconceived ideas, it really does affect everyone differently and hopefully you will be like me and sail through. 4 months down the line I still have minor problems with mucous but the cancer has been banished and I am now under observation for 5 years. You will get tired, I believe everyone does but it will pass. All the very best, I wish you well.

My biggest wobble came when I saw the machines at my planning session and I was more nervous than when I had the op. I needn't have been. After the first session and you realise it's exactly the same every day it's quite straightforward. The staff are lovely and really put you at your ease. You don't feel anything and the lights above the machines where I had mine done were fitted with blue skies and cherry blossom so it made you feel relaxed. I am totally in awe of the work that is done and I'm sure you will cope with it.

I prepared my skin (breast) with a good double base cream before treatment started. I had no skin reaction during treatment nor did I feel tired. After treatment my skin felt a bit hot and a bit itchy but nothing bad. I felt  a bit tired for a only couple of weeks after. Everything had settled down after about three weeks and I kept using the cream.

Although my husband or friend came with me I drove there and back every day, a 40 mile round journey and I was quite ok doing that.

It is a massive facing but I think the thought of it is much worse than the actual treatment. I'm now 5 months post treatment and have no after effects whatsoever.

Please don't worry and good luck with your treatment

Thanks, that's reassuring.  X 

Thanks that was reassuring,  I'll make sure I use my cream x

I use Isomol Gel. Ask your GP for some. Mine gave it me on repeat prescription x