radiation

Hi, I have just received news that I have breast cancer, I am totaly dependent on my pacemaker and because of the heart problems the doctor said this is not the type of cancer that spreads, but I am wondering, if the time comes if I can have radiation, they cannot put me on Tamoxifen because of the heart and on cumandin

6 Comments

Radiation & Pacemaker

by SMITTY - 2007-07-14 05:07:38

Hi Jeanmarie,

First let me say how sorry I am to hear about your diagnosis of cancer. I'll join others in putting you in our prayers for a full and fast recovery.

Below is an excerpt form an article on the subject of effects of radiation and pacemakers.

"Diagnostic radiation (such as screening X-ray) appears to have no effect on pacemaker pulse generators. However, therapeutic radiation (such as for treating cancerous tumors) may damage the pacemaker's circuits. The degree of damage is unpredictable and may vary with different systems. But the risk is significant and builds up as the radiation dose increases. The American Heart Association recommends that the pacemaker be shielded as much as possible, and moved if it lies directly in the radiation field. If you depend on your pacemaker for normal heart pacing, the electrocardiogram (ECG) should be monitored during the treatment, and your pulse generator should be tested often after and between radiation sessions."

I wish you the best,

Smitty

your in my prayers!

by bini - 2007-07-14 06:07:41

Sadly, I do not know much about radiation and pacemakers, but I wanted to let you know that I wish you the best during this rough time in your life. you will be added to my prayers. Know that we are all here for you, and please keep us updated as to how things are going.
I wish you all the best,
bini

Added you to my prayer list

by cottontop - 2007-07-14 06:07:50

I am sorry to hear about finding breast cancer. I pray they caught it early. I can't answer your question, but you have my support and prayers. Look to God during these rough times. Please keep us updated.

I wish you the best,
cottontop

shock

by jessie - 2007-07-15 02:07:01

you are still in shock from this news. you need to clarify with your doctor how this is going to go in the weeks ahead. sometimes when news like that is given we only here part of it because it is such a shock. take care jeanmarie you are in my prayers. god bless you jessie

Hi jeanmarie

by Rewiredaussiegirl - 2007-07-15 09:07:22

Hi Jeanmarie,so sorry to hear the news but I know so many people who have had breast cancer and with todays technology they have come through ok..
It runs in my family and I freak out everytime I have a mammagram.
We will all be thinking and praying for you.keep us in touch with how you are going-Take care-Kay
(Positive thinking is always one of the best cures)

thank you

by jeanmarie - 2007-07-20 10:07:18

I want to thank all of you for your comments, went back for another mammogram, and there was no change in the cancer cells, the doctor said something about freezing the cancer cells, but will wait for 3 months and do another mammogram to see if any change..Again Thank You and God Bless

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As for my pacemaker (almost 7 years old) I like to think of it in the terms of the old Timex commercial - takes a licking and keeps on ticking.