I had multi-catheter brachy therapy in October 2007. Twenty-one catheters were inserted into my breast (42 incisions total) and radiation was passed through the catheters two times per day for five days.
The scar tissue and discomfort from this procedure was severe for me, so I understand what you going through. Some of the areas riddled with scar tissue have softened over time, so I’m hoping as the years go by I‘ll experience additional improvement. Unfortunately, the pain hasn’t improved yet; I have to take pain medication on a daily basis.
Some of the things which seems to help me include the following:
1) Applying vitamin E
2) Long, hot baths
3) Applying ice when there is a lot of swelling and inflammation
4) Forgoing a bra whenever possible and wearing a comfortable fitting sports bra when traveling or exercising
5) Avoiding injury and jarring (I can’t count the number of times I’ve bumped the bloody thing).
6) Gentle stretching over time
7) Sleeping on my ‘good’ side with a small pillow wedged between my arm and the effected breast to lessen pressure from my arm
I also switched to a hospital that uses digital mammography -- it does not require the breast to be compressed as much as conventional x-ray type mammography.
I recently read on the Internet that ultrasound therapy can help break up scar tissue in the breast -- but I’ve also read conflicting reports as to whether or not this procedure is considered safe for BC patients.
Hopefully others here can provide a long-term perspective regarding how much improvement we can expect over the years and/or additional tips for handling this problem.
I completely understand what you are experiencing.
Blessings,
Moon Masque Mystic