Relief: Comfort Slings Help Relieve Abrasions and Dermatitis Beneath The Breast

by Margot Malin, CEO and Founder of Lots To Live For, Inc.

Patients who are undergoing radiation therapy on the underside of their breasts may develop radiation dermatitis, painful sores, and even weepy lesions in the skin folds beneath their breasts. The inflammation can be worsened by excessive perspiration and the chafing resulting from skin-to-skin contact. Once these side effects occur the patient experiences significant discomfort.

Relief: A new product called the ComfortSling(R) can help to improve comfort and prevent the continuing abrasion or fold over effect. The Breast Comfort Sling allows the breast to rest on a soft cushion giving freer air circulation while wicking away perspiration to keep the sore area dry. The straps are adjustable so there is no pressure on the neck or shoulder, or on the sore areas beneath the breast. The cushion provides a comfort barrier between the breast and the skin beneath it to prevent excessive chafing, and the antimicrobial material discourages bacteria growth.

The Slings are available in either a single sling, or a double sling.
The Single Sling: Women have found that wearing the Breast Comfort Single Sling from the onset of radiotherapy, even before any side effects have begun to appear, is the most effective way to minimize uncomfortable side effects to the skin. Wearing the sling as many hours as possible throughout the day, especially when sleeping, is most effective.
The Double Sling:  Women with large breasts often suffer yeast infections, skin rashes, fungus and other irritations due to excessive perspiration and poor circulation under their breasts. The moisture irritates the skin and the area becomes further inflamed as the breast tends to rub against the skin beneath it. The ComfortSling^® Double-Sling is an ideal solution.

The fabric for the Breast ComfortSlings and Pads was specially selected because it is very soft and has both wicking and antimicrobial qualities. The straps are soft enough to be comfortable yet firm enough to hold their shape when worn across the shoulders. The slings stay in place, yet they are loose enough to avoid pressure and constriction across the neck and under the breast.

Breast ComfortSlings and Pads were developed by Elizabeth Silver during her radiation oncology treatment and they proved so effective that her radiologist and oncologist were amazed at the excellent condition of her skin during her treatment. In fact, it was they who recommended that she begin to market the slings so that more women could benefit from the relief they provided.

Patients have found amazing relief from using the products, as described in these reviews: 

Life Saver!!

Posted on May 12th 2016

My cousin was in her 20th treatment of radiation and we started noticing that the crease under her left breast was raw and peeling to the point of extreme pain. I was desperately searching for some type of treatment that would help and I did. This breast sling is the best . It allowed her breast to heel so much faster. If anyone is going to be starting radiation, please, please get this before starting treatment! It will help sooooo much! 

Posted on May 31, 2016

Using the breast comfort sling and the pads, combined with clotrimazole (an antifungal cream found in lortimin AF athletes foot cream), I have managed to heal a 1/2 dollar sized very painful and itchy irritation under my breast. It has been there for months and within 5 days of using the pads and cream it has greatly reduced and virtually healed.

This post is a condensed version of  Comfort Slings Help Relieve Soreness and Abrasion Beneath the Breasts published on the Breast Cancer Yoga Blog in December 2015.

Lots To Live For, Inc. Featured in Interview in the On and Off the Mat Blog by Embrace Activism

Lots To Live For, Inc. is featured in the On and Off the Mat Blog under the "Power of Love" series of blog posts. Margot Malin, President, CEO and Founder of Lots To Live For, Inc. is interviewed by Karen Whittier, Chief Activist at Embrace Activism about the inspiration and genesis of the company.  Lots To Live For, Inc is an internet retailer that sells carefully selected products to reduce and relieve the uncomfortable and unpleasant side effects caused by chemotherapy and radiation. The genesis and inspiration for this company came after the passing of two close family members following their courageous battles with cancer. The company mission is to provide options and support to others who are going through exhausting and debilitating chemotherapy and radiation oncology treatments. Put simply: We recognize that you have "lots to live for" and we offer solutions so that you can improve the quality of your life.

An few excerpts from the interview follow:

Karen:  Both your mother and grandmother battled cancer. Were their cancers found early?

Margot: Luckily research and discouvery in medicine continue to progress so both treatments and diagnoses have advanced over the years. So there is a double benefit: cancer is being found earlier, and the treatments have improved significantly. Sadly, the cancer was not found early in either my mother or grandmother. In fact both had already progressed to Stage 4 when they received their diagnoses.

Karen:  More than a handful of cancer patients have commented on the toll cancer treatments take. What types of treatment did your mother and grandmother have?

Margot: Between the two of them all of the weapons against cancer were used: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. All three "weapons" have improved over time. Surgery is more precise, there are better and more targeted types of chemotherapy, and the radiology equipment has become more precise and focused. Unfortunately, even with all the improvements in medicine and technology, treatment can still be exhausting and debilitating.

Karen: What types of products are available through Lots to Live For, Inc?

Margot: This is my favorite question because we have so many wondeful side effect solutions! We sell helpful products ranging from nutitional supplements to topical skin, hair and nail products and much more. All these products help you improve the quality of your life while you are going though treatments that may effect your skin, hair, nails and mouth, and also make you tired and nauseous. Our products help these side effects. We carry a number of different product lines including Haelan 951, Thymuskin Hair Care items, RADX and SolRx products, Lindiskin Skin Care products, Alra products, Biotene Oral Care, My Girls Cream, SkinFree, CoolMagic gel sheets, Biobands for nausea and software from Minerva Health Manager to organize health records. We have a complete line of products for radiation skin care, radiation dermatitis and radiation burns. I should also mention that one of our most popular and most important product lines is Cancer Gifts. Of course any of the items we sell can be purchased as a gift, but we also have some uniquely themed gift sets for specific side effects ("Mouth Moisturizer", "Help for Hair", "Radiation Burn Care Kit", etc) which make expecially caring and thoughtful gifts. These gifts help to express your support and concern. You can write a note on our website order form which will be enclosed with the gift and sent directly to the recipient. We also sell gift certificates.

To read the complete interview please click here: On and Off the Mat Blog Interviews Lots To Live For!  

As Karen says at the conclusion of the post "Please share this Power of Love story with anyone you know battling cancer and/or caregivers. Visit the Lots to Live For website, Cancer Blog and, if you're on Facebook, be sure to 'like' their page. Cancer patients may be more keenly aware, but we ALL have lots to live for!"

More about the On and Off the Mat Blog:  in the Power of Love series Karen interviews individuals to explore why they started their foundations, charities or businesses, and what their hopes, goals or missions are. A couple of past posts were about Vivyn Lazonga, a tatoo artist specializing in body art for breast cancer patients and Robin Thomas, promoter of Heatlth and Wellness.

Embrace Activism creates purpose-driven yoga; improving the health and wellness of yoga practitioners and contributing to various health-related charities.

Homeopathic Treatment for Radiation Burns and Other Skin Conditions

7 Cream is a homeopathic treatment for radiation burns and radiation dermatitis, as well as an excellent cream for other skin conditions. The 7 ingredients are described below with their healing properties. You can order 7 Cream by clicking here.

7 CREAM'S ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum parkii) comes from the fat obtained from the karite tree from Africa. It is extremely therapeutic; helping to heal cracked and damaged skin. Shea butter penetrates the skin and leaves it feeling soft and smooth. It contains unsaponifiables and cinnamic esters, which have antimicrobial and moisturizing properties and provide protection from the UV rays of the sun.
Avocado oil (Persea americana) contains more than 20% essential unsaturated fatty acids. It also contains vitamins A, C, D and E, proteins, beta-carotene, lecithin, fatty acids and potassium. It has a superior moisturizing effect on the upper layer of the skin and reduces scars. A study at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology found that avocado oil significantly increases the water soluble collagen content in the dermis. The AMA states that it reduces roughness, cracking and irritation.
Coconut oil (Cocos nucifera) is one of the safest most effective natural body moisturizers available. It is rich in lauric fatty acid. According to research as it appears to have significant antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Manuka oil A unique oil extracted from the Manuka plant. We use a particularly concentrated form of it. For example it is effective against the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes and Propionibacterium acnes in concentrations as low as 1:3500.
Neem oil (Azadriachta indica) is used widely in India as an antibacterial, antiviral. antifungal, antiseptic and antiparasitic. It is used to treat skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, scabies, syphilitic sores, chicken pox etc.
Manuka Honey is honey from the flower of the Manuka tree indigenous to New Zealand. Its healing properties have been known to the Maoris for a very long time. Manuka honey promotes a hydrated healing environment and rapidly clears bacteria from colonized and infected wounds. It has even been observed to be effective against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria (MRSA). It has an anti-inflammatory action and prevents scarring. Manuka honey has been used to treat a range of skin problems including chronic sores, ring worm, eczema, fungal infections and dandruff. We use the most powerful and expensive form of Manuka Honey available.
Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller) is a well known plant with many documented therapeutic effects. It has more than 200 biologically active components including polysaccharides, phytosterols and glycerol. Aloe Vera has been found to have anti-inflammatory, burn healing and wound and scar reducing properties. We use a pure, certified Organic, aloe Vera gel.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) has been used by herbalists and homeopaths for hundreds of years. Its chief use is as a local application to help heal and prevent infection of wounds through its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. 7 Cream contains a powerful Organic, alcohol free Calendula extract made especially for us by Gaia Herbs and contains as much as most purely calendula creams.
7 Cream was developed by a homeopathic practitioner in Canada. The water used in 7 Cream is Canadian glacier water - the world’s purest and softest water
NO parabens, mineral oil, fragrances, lanolin, propylene glycol. The unavoidable preservative and stablisers are chosen for their gentleness and non-toxicity.

This cream, while excellent as a moisturizer, protective barrier cream, and infection preventer, was also designed to be a promoter of healing for damaged skin. It is therefore very useful for injuries and burns as well as eczema and otherdermatitis type conditions and fungal infections. It can also being used cosmetically for its moisturizing effect.

Lots To Live For, Inc. is a website that specializes in discovering excellent products to help reduce the unpleasant and uncomfortable side effects of cancer therapies. To view all of the RADIATION BURN products available through Lots To Live For, Inc. please click here.

Cancer Gifts – Thoughtful Gifts for Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiation Therapy Treatment

Cancer gifts express your caring, concern and support. If you are having trouble selecting just the right item for your friend or loved one consider buying a product or a collection of products to ease cancer side effects.

Patients who are undergoing radiation therapy often get radiation dermatitis, or radiation burns. There are some excellent creams and lotions that can help to prevent the burns, and then to soothe them if a person has already been burned. A few suggestions include:

•  RADX radiation therapy gift kit – 4 products to help from before radiation starts to post radiation skin protection care. Using these products should keep your skin supple and healthy
•  Alra therapy lotion - offers soothing relief to skin exposed to radiation therapy, and is also effective in the treatment of eczema, sunburn, and other severe dry skin conditions
•  CoolMagic gel sheets - these light-weight, see-through polymer sheets provide instant cooling to burns, abrasions, skin tears, radiation reactions and sensitive wounds, effectively reducing pain.
•  Skin cooler rolls - especially effective on hyper-sensitive, compromised skin. They can be used on radiation dermatitis, sunburn, “hot flashes”, or itchy, dry skin.
•  My Girl's Cream - Calendula based, and made in Hungary, My Girls skin cream has a creamy texture that spreads easily over delicate skin and helps maintain the healthy appearance of the skin without staining clothes.
•  7 cream -  7 Cream is a topical homeopathic skin care remedy with 7 natural ingredients whose healing properties help radiation burns.

Other unpleasant and uncomfortable side effects of radiation and chemotherapy can be related to oral care, hair care, skin care (other than radiation burns), and nausea.
We will talk about gift suggestions for these side effects in future blog posts.

To view our cancer gift page click here.
http://www.lotstolivefor.com/brands/cancer-gifts/

Please "like" us at www.facebook.com/LotsToLiveFor

Gel Sheets for Radiation Burn Care – Cool Magic Gel Sheets and Lind Skin Cooler Rolls

Gel sheets are a handy and noninvasive product that can be used for radiation burn care. They help to soothe and calm radiation burns. Some of our customers tell us they provide incredible relief from pain and itching and that allows them to continue with daily chores and especially to sleep at night! The great thing about gel sheets is that they can be left on for long periods of time (for some people, up to 3 days) and they provide continuous relief. You can also put the gel sheets over radiation creams such as the RADX radiation therapy cream or Alra Therapy Lotion.

We carry two kinds of gel sheets on our cancer care product website: http://www.lotstolivefor.com/brands/CoolMagic-Gel-Sheets.html.
Cool Magic gel sheets receive rave customer reviews.
Cool Magic Hydrogel Sheets come in 2 sizes
3.75 inches x 3.75 inches OR 6 inches x 8 inches
They can be purchased individually or in a box of 10 sheets all the same size.
• This light-weight, see-through polymer sheet provides instant cooling to burns, abrasions, skin tears, radiation reactions and sensitive wounds, effectively reducing pain.
• The sterile hydrogel polymer sheet consists of 90% water, 10% inactive crosslinked polyethylene oxide matrix, and it transfers heat away from the wound, providing a cooling effect.
• Cooling action relieves pain of burning, itching, or sore skin
• Can be refrigerated for greater cooling capacity
• Allows oxygen flow while preventing bacteria or foreign material from entering wound.
Cool Magic is mentioned enthusiastically in several cancer blogs by cancer patients who have used these dressings and received relief. (for example cancercompass.com)
Suggestions for use for Cool Magic gel sheets:
Apply over wound for a cool, soothing effect.
Change the dressing every 24 to 36 hours.
Hold in place with tape or stretch gauze (you may not need tape or gauze).
Why it works:
Semi-occlusive: allows flow of oxygen
Prevents bacteria and foreign matter from entering wound
Hydrophilic and absorptive – absorbs three times its weight
Cools live nerve endings due to 90% water-10% polyethylene formulation
Will not damage tissue when removed
The dressing can easily be cut to fit the wound
The dressing leaves no wet or sticky feeling when removed
DO NOT USE Cool Magic FOR:
• Full Thickness Wounds
• Infected Wounds
• 3rd Degree Burns

Lind Skin Cooler Rolls which have aloe vera are also featured on our website.
Lindi Skin Coolers provide intense relief to areas that are burned or dehydrated.
Skin Coolers are especially effective on hyper-sensitive, compromised skin. They can be used on radiation dermatitis, sunburn, “hot flashes”, or itchy, dry skin. During radiation therapy, skin should always be washed and free of any product. Skin Coolers should be used after each treatment.
To relieve areas that are burned or dehydrated, look to the immediate cooling comfort and intense hydration of the Lindi Skin Cooler Roll. The natural properties of water and aloe vera combine to help soothe any compromised area and promote a moist, healing environment for healthy skin. Leave on area for 20-45 minutes. Lindi Skin Cooler Roll is designed to be custom cut for your needs and conform to the size and shape of the wound. Simply cut, apply to skin and then discard after one-time use.
The size of the lindiskin cooler roll is - 1 roll (4 in x 60 in)
Lindi Skin cooler rolls are Dermatologist Tested - Allergy Tested - Non-Irritating
Suggestions for use: open the package and drain the excess liquid. Cut Lindi Skin Cooler to the desired size and peel off backing. For maximum comfort, place on skin for 20-45 minutes. Discard used product. Unused product may be stored in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator. Do not freeze or leave it uncovered.
Caution – the Skin cooler roll is for external use only. Not for use on broken skin.
The Cool Magic gel sheets and the Lind Skin cooler rolls can be cut to size. They can be refrigerated before use, but they don’t have to be. They will naturally adhere to the skin, and peel off easily when you want to remove them.
To order Cool Magic gel sheets or Lind Skin cooler rolls you can click here.
Cool Magic gel sheets can be purchased in boxes of 10 (3.75 inch square) or (6x8 inch).

You can also view our other radiation care products by clicking here.
To view all the products we offer click here.

Skin Care during Chemotherapy and Radiation Oncology Treatments

Chemotherapy medications can affect a patient’s skin, hair, and nails. The side effects vary by patient and more broadly by the type of chemotherapy that is being administered.

Before starting treatment, it is suggested that the patient ask their oncologist or oncology nurse what specific skin/hair/nail reactions might be caused by the regimen prescribed. That way, they can better prepare by exploring products that will be helpful.

Some common side effects are dry, flaky or itchy skin. If a patient is receiving radiation, the skin can become burned, or an itchy bumpy rash can develop.

Tarceva can cause a rash and other skin changes. Soon after you start taking Tarceva, a rash may appear—most often on your face, upper chest and back. However, a rash may appear anywhere on your body with symptoms such as itching, tenderness, burning, dryness, or cracked skin on your fingers and hands. It may look like acne or dry skin. Rash is a common side effect of Tarceva. If you get a rash while on Tarceva, call your doctor about what to do, as some rashes have been serious. (Source: http://www.tarceva.com/patient/taking/effects.jsp)

Erbitux can also cause a very bad rash, sometimes called an acne-form rash. It can be mild, but sometimes it is severe. You can read more about this rash on the Chemocare website by clicking here.

Another side effect that can occur is hand-foot syndrome (sometimes referred to as Palmar-Plantar erythrodysesthesia). This is an irritation, cracking and peeling of the skin on the hands, and feet. Some medications that can cause hand-foot syndrome in patients are Capecitabine (Xeloda®), 5-Flurouracil (5FU), continuous-infusion doxorubicin, doxorubicin liposomal (Doxil®), and high-dose Interleukin-2.

A study that was published in the Journal of Supportive Oncology (March/April 2009) reviewed some of the skin, hair and nail effects from the toxicities of targeted biologic agents. This article is called Dermatotoxicity Linked to Targeted Biologic Agents.

A further description about the side effects that can be caused by EGFR Inhibitors including Erbitux, Tarceva and Vectibix can be found on the Mayo Clinic website.

We have products on our website that can help with many skin related side effects.

We sell many products to help radiation burns. They can be found by clicking here

The Lindiskin product line can help with many skin issues. These products can be viewed by clicking here.

Soothing balm can help hand-foot syndrome and you can read about it by clicking here.

Face serum, which comes in either a lavender scent or a citrus scent, can be viewed here. Face serum is an excellent product for individuals who are taking EGFR inhibitors and who might be experiencing the acneform rash as a side effect.

This information is published for informational and helpful purposes and is accumulated from sources that are believed to be reliable. It is not meant as a substitute for individual medical advice. It is suggested that you contact your healthcare provider with any questions you have that are specific to your disease and treatment protocol.