I had a mastectomy and then 15 sessions of radiotherapy for breast cancer approximately 2 and a half years ago. This left me with some sore spots on my ribs which were not a big problem but then about 2 months ago the pain in the 2 ribs closest to my scar suddenly got much worse and is still causing me a lot of discomfort. My GP thinks it is a trapped nerve caused by scar tissue but the breast surgeon thinks it is damage from the radiotherapy. It feels like I have broken my ribs and the pain can be quite severe at times. A chest xray came back as normal and both doctors seem confident it is not the return of the cancer but my question is has anyone else had the same problem and how did they deal with it? Any help or suggestions gratefully received
Hi Secret20 and welcome to the Online Community although I am sorry to see you joining us and to hear about your diagnoses and ongoing issues. A cancer diagnosis can be such a stressful and challenging time but when it comes to support there is nothing better than talking with others who are on the exact same cancer and treatment journey.
The Community is divided into support groups (discussion rooms) so can I suggest that you consider joining our supportive Breast cancer group. This is a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
If you'd like to connect in with a group click on the Green (Bold) link(s) I have created above. Once the group page opens click on the black banner that says [click to join] at the bottom, or the [Join] button under "Group tools."
You can then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘new post’ by clicking in the box near the top right with + New or + (Depending on the device you are using) and you are ready to go. You could copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
Macmillan have many support services so do check out the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. These services provide cancer information, practical information, emotional support or just a listening ear.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.
Give me a shout if you need further help.
All the very best.
