Secondary Cancer

Hi Alibongoes

Thanks for getting in touch.

My name is Paula and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

I can see you have joined our inflammatory breast cancer forum. I hope you’re finding it helpful to share your experiences with others.

I am sorry to hear about your new symptoms despite having successful cancer treatment. A cancer diagnosis brings a lot of uncertainties, many people share your fears. The fear of cancer recurrence or a new cancer is very real and can make you feel very worried and anxious. It is natural to feel this way.

It’s reassuring to hear you’ve had your symptoms checked over. As it could be other conditions causing your symptoms and not necessarily a secondary cancer in your bones. Sometimes people can experience the late effects of cancer treatment, or it could be due to medication you’re on.

It may be worth speaking to your GP or hospital team again to see if you’re eligible for an up to date  Bone density scan (DEXA) scan. As breast cancer treatment can affect your bones and increase your risk of Osteoporosis. They might even refer you for an MRI scan to investigate the knee swelling further. They can also do blood tests to see if they are within the normal range or abnormal.  These investigations can help to identify what may be causing your current symptoms.

If you have worsening symptoms, we would suggest contacting NHS111 immediately or attending A&E for further medical advice.

Talking to your team might give you some peace of mind and help you to understand what may be happening. Even though your cancer treatment may have ended, it does not mean that you can’t get help to manage these fears or worries you are having. You are not alone feeling like this. There are many people in a similar position who find it hard after successful treatment.

Many patients can suffer with mixed emotions and struggle to return to what they think is normal. It can be difficult to adapt to these changes.

There are many ways your GP can help you such as referring you for talking therapies. We can also make a referral to Bupa for an assessment for emotional support if you feel this may help.

Talking over how you are feeling can make things a little easier and help you to find ways to manage your fears and concerns.

I hope this information has been helpful, please don’t hesitate to get back in touch. you might find it helpful to talk one of nurses on the support line. Sometimes giving us a call can help. It’s a free phone number on 0808 808 0000 and we are here 7 days a week, 8am-8pm or email us. 

Regards

Ref: PW/SB