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Worried about cancer spreading

Jemimapuddleduck01
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I am having treatment for stage 1 breast cancer but it’s aggressive. I’ve had the chemotherapy and a mastectomy and was told it was all clear but I’m worrying myself as I need to start treatment stopping it spreading to my bones but I’m worried it might already be there due to pain in my bone in my arm and being exhausted etc. 

  • Hello Jemimapuddleduck01, Thank you for contacting us at Macmillan. My name is George, and I'm one of the information specialist nurses on the Macmillan support line. It’s good to hear you have completed most of your treatment, but acknowledge it can be hard to move beyond the fears and worries you are having about your cancer reoccurring. Feeling uncertain about the future when diagnosed with and surviving cancer is normal.

    Treatment can have lasting effects, which can cause aching bones for some months after treatment has finished. We at Macmillan would always say that any persistent or worsening symptom must be discussed with your breast care team as soon as possible to help alleviate any fears you have.

    Many changes can happen after breast surgery due to nerve damage, resulting in pain, numbness and changes in sensation in the breast area as well as the shoulder and arm. These symptoms often fully recover over the next several months but don't always return to normal. The Late effects of breast cancer treatment, including fatigue and tiredness, can also be common after treatment and take weeks or months to return to normal. Some people find they have to adjust to a “new” normal after cancer treatment.

    Macmillan offers free specialist counselling and support through Bupa. If you think you would benefit from this therapy, the Bupa well-being assessment can be booked using the above link or by calling our support line. Discussing these fears with a professional who can help you get back to feeling better can be very helpful.

    There is also a short course called Hope, specifically for people living beyond cancer. Breast Cancer Now also produces an information pack Moving Forward: for people living with and beyond cancer.

    I hope this information is helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if there is anything else that we can help you with. We are available 7 days a week 8am to 8pm on 0808 808 0000. Or you can send an email.

    Kind regards,

    George 

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist  

    REF/GH/AC

     

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