Here is what I just replied to another member whose husband was getting radiation burns...

If your husband has not been using cream for his neck he should start immediately. I used Beta Val (prescription). There are many different ones available, ask the doc what he recommends. Always pat it on gently, never rub it in, let the cream soak into his skin and reapply. Never use the cream a few hours prior to going to rads but immediately afterwards dab some on.


Focus on what is within your control... your mothers intake. Every single day she should be taking in a at least 2500+ calories and 48-64 oz of water. By working hard at getting the proper daily amounts it will make things easier.

If your mother is in pain, speak up and tell the doc. Nobody should have to go thru this in pain, it does not help the patient at all to suffer. Many have used the fentanyl patch. If she would get the patch, make sure to follow directions exactly. Never ever fold, bend, tear, cut the patch. Always place it on a different place every 3 days. It will take about 24 hours to kick in but the patch simplifies the pain meds by only occasionally needing extra when the pain gets severe.

Best wishes!


Christine
SCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44
2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07
-65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr
Clear PET 1/08
4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I
surg 4/16/08 clr marg
215 HBO dives
3/09 teeth out, trismus
7/2/09 recur, Stg IV
8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy
3wks medicly inducd coma
2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit
PICC line IV antibx 8 mo
10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg
OC 3x in 3 years
very happy to be alive smile