Women may develop radiation burns on their breasts for a number of reasons. Many women with breast cancer undergo radiation therapy, which exposes tissue in the breast to a high dose of radiation to kill cancer cells. External beam radiation, a common type of radiation therapy, involves aiming radiation through the skin and into the breast tissue. During the procedure, the overlying breast skin also receives a dose of radiation and as a result many women may develop uncomfortable radiation burns after treatment. Alternatively, excessive exposure to the sun can cause radiation burns from exposure to ultraviolet radiation. These burns may be treated with a number of topical or drug treatments.
Cold Treatments
Women suffering from radiation burns on their breast can help relieve swelling and irritation by applying a cold compress to the burn site. The University of Michigan recommends applying cold compresses regularly as the radiation burn develops or immersing the burned breasts in cool water. These treatments will help dissipate heat out of the burned skin and promote burn healing, while providing mild pain relief.
Aloe Vera
Radiation-burned breast skin commonly becomes dry, red and flaky, which can lead to itching and general irritation. Applying a gentle moisturizer to the skin can help ease flakiness and help promote burn healing. Aloe vera presents an ideal radiation burn moisturizer, since it is is gentle on the skin and should not cause further irritation. Aloe vera gel does not contain oils or fats, which help seal heat into the radiation burn, slowing the healing process. The American Cancer Society cautions that patients with allergies to onions, garlic or tulips may have adverse reactions to its use, and long-term use of aloe vera may cause irritation though use of aloe vera on skin is generally safe.
Pain Medications
One cause of pain and irritation from a radiation burn is the activation of the immune system due to damage to the skin. As the burn develops, immune system cells collect around the burn site and release inflammatory factors, leading to redness, swelling and pain. The use of over-the-counter pain medications can help reduce inflammation at the burn site and ease the pain associated with existing irritation. Although aspirin is generally safe, patients already receiving medication should consult a physician before taking pain medications.
