please can someone tell me more about this mask used for radiation treatment.. a bit claustro here
thanks much and G-d bless

The mask is made of a thermo formed mesh to keep your head & neck immobile during treatment. It is critical that your radiation treatment be as accurate as possible. As you loose weight the mask will loosen up a little. Maybe you should ask for anti-anxiety meds before you start treatment. I'll send you some photos if you like.

Cave,
Mine was made of fiberglass. It was like two straps around my chin and one across the forehead. It anchors your head to the table at six spots, and has small lines on it to aid in alignment. They used laser allignment to make sure the machine is aligned properly, and your treatment is highly accurate. During my treatment they also immobilized my arms, looping a line around both wrists and around my feet. The staff monitored me on 3 different cameras, and we had a signal (raising my knees) if I was in trouble. I didn't have any trouble with claustrophobia (21 years in submarines helps), but those who did were offered anti-anxiety meds that helped. In my case, I had to lie there typically for about 20 to 25 minutes. I got to the point that I could actually fall asleep like that.
You'll probably get a "practice" session when they do a simulation and make your first mask. That'll give you some idea of what to look forward to.

Good luck in your treatment. Keep coming back here with your questions. There's an incredible amount of knowledge and support available here.

Good Health

Chuck

Hi Cave,
Like Gary, my mask was also thermo-formed plastic. I hated the idea of being restrained but my best-friend and caregiver convinced me that it should be looked upon as a friend that was around to contribute to saving my life.
Good Luck and like Chuck says, keep coming back. We are all with you.

Jack
..........
Dx 1/15/97 SCC rt. tonsil met to rt lymph node Stg IV, Srgry 1/23/97 tonsillectomy & mod radical neck dissection, Radiation 35 trtmnts both sides

My mask is hanging on my wall with all the purple and red marks still on it.

Just try to relax when you're going through the radiation, and good luck.

Sandy

My mask is hanging on my wall with all the purple and red marks still on it.

Just try to relax when you're going through the radiation, and good luck.

Sandy

I found that taking a Tylenol or something similar shortly prior to treatment helped a lot because the back of my head got sore from the hard table. I did not have arms and legs restrained but promised to stay very still, which was easy because I generally dozed. And yes, by the second week, the mask which feels very tight at first, begins to loosen. You will do just fine, Cave! Oh, one more thing. It was quite chilly where I was treated and the attendants will happily cover you with blankets if you ask.

Hi Cave,
I had a horrible first experience with the mask but surprised myself with how quickly I made myself adjust to it. A good portion of my fear came from me not being informed when I went to my simulation appointment. No one had stressed to me that I would be bolted to a table, with this very tight, very restrictive mesh mask over my face, hands restrained, with a mouth piece in my mouth. I left that appointment VERY shaken up and terrified, told my daughter on the way home that I just could NOT ever do that again. But, Monday morning I showed up, dug deep for courage and did just fine. Each time was easier and I needed no medication. I found that if I counted to myself, kept my mind occupied, that it was easier. After the first few weeks, I didn't need to do anything mentally as I simply wasn't afraid of it anymore. My appointments (time on the table) took all of 15 minutes per day, unless it was the once weekly xrays.
You can get through this treatment, even if the first day scares the you know what out of you. Keep us updated.
Minnie

Cave, I found that the music, combined with closing my eyes to rest and prayer got me through the process. I had no restraints other than the mask and it was no big deal. Being strapped into a parachute is a lot scarier.

Cave: I am a family member of a tongue cancer survivor so I have never had the radiation mask, but I am claustrophobic (unlike my brother) so I can understand your reaction. When I have had to have tests (like MRI) where I will be enclosed, my doctors have offered me tranquilizers. If you are really freaked by the experience, ask for tranqs, they do work. Good luck! Candace

I did feal a little claustra in it but dealt with it several ways. Relaxed right before the treatment. Took deep breaths as I was getting on the table. tought the most pleasant things I knew during the treatement. Kept my eyes closed so which helped not think what was around me. Just say your doing it to save your life.

I should mention also that I slept through many of my treatments. It was not really a big deal. I made a CD of some rippin' Gospel music and like Kirk, prayed and listened to God a lot on that table.

I think the only time I had a real problem was when I walked into the radiation center with a bucket in my hand catching the you know what. I suddenly felt a big problem developing at the other end and one of the employees went into the bathroom ahead of me. After pacing the floor for what seemed like hours (seconds really), I bolted for the women's bathroom and as I hit the commode, I didn't know if I was coming or going. That was the worst day I remember and as I walked out of the bathroom the social worker was blocking me from sitting down while she asked if there was anything I needed. I finally staggered around her just in the time for the dietician to tell me I wasn't getting enough to eat.

Ahhhh...yes, I remember it well!

Ed

As much as I had nightmares about choking on my own vomit - I never did -never even got sick! They observe you all of time via CCTV and usually give you a bell or something to get their attention. Nothing really to worry about. They don't want you getting sick either. There is no sensation of anything during the treatment itself. It passes quickly.

Hello Cave,

The radiation mask was a piece of cake. The trearment only lasted 15 minutes. I tossed mine in the garbage a couple of months ago. I'm not a saver. Don't fret over this part of your treatment. You will do fine!!!

Danny Boy

Hi, Cave -- A little late in responding as I haven't been able to visit the site lately. My husband was claustrophobic also and the idea of the mask frightened him. He is now in his second "round" of radiation and states it is a breeze. He has, however, asked for and has taken valium or a similar drug to help him to relax while using the mask for radiaion. As I have stressed to him many times, the radiologists (and all other caregivers) are there to help you -- if you don't tell them your concerns, they assume you have none -- always, always !! tell them!! You'll be surprised how willing they are to make you as comfortable as possible. My husband was reluctant to tell them how uncomfortable he was in the position they put him in for radiation. He spent 3 days miserable before he broke down and let them know -- they immediately adjusted things to make him comfortable. They (as I) are CAREGIVERS -- take advantage of that for your mental and emotional health during this trying time for you.

Unlike Danny Boy, I kept my mask! I am going going to plant grass on it and make a self portrait Chia Pet.;)

My treatment by the way was 45 minutes - longer during the once a week xrays.

I'm not embarrassed to admit that I took Zanax for anxiety during this time.

Gary
When the grass has grown can I have a pic?
Sunshine.... love and hugs
Helen

Hi Cave,
The only problem I experienced with the mask was near the end of my treatments when I had developed a pretty good case of mucositis. I was afraid of choking on the mucous and arranged a hand signal if I needed the mask removed immediately. The staff at Mass General were great about getting the mask off as quickly as possible once my daily dose of radiation was delivered.
Good luck with your treatments. - Sheldon

Gary,

I will need a photo of the mask with grass growing out of it. And I am not embarrassed
about needing the anti-depressants. This is one hell of a bumpy ride!!!!!

Danny Boy

Gary,

I had to let out a chuckle re: your Chia pet idea for your mask. I kept mine around until the third anniversary check-up came back clean and then I put it to rest. Found I didn't need it anymore.

Jack
..........
Dx 1/15/97 SCC rt. tonsil met to rt lymph node Stg IV,
Srgry 1/23/97 tonsillectomy & mod radical neck dissection,
Radiation 35 trtmnts both sides