It seems I'm a patient now!

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But not a very patient one! 

I've at least got a diagnosis, it's invasive ductal cancer grade 2, but still small, oestrogen receptive but looks as if I might get away with the lymph nodes....and maybe not too much treatment afterwards? 

Complex plan, but to begin with, a sentinel node (plus another one or so) removal as day surgery, (a nuclear medicine visit first to get 'the jab' for them to trace) then a gap while that,  plus the HER result come back, then because of my previous surgeries for cysts and the fact one resulted in a massive haematoma, therefore scar tissue, I will have a complete mastectomy with an implant. That will be immediately after Easter. 

By finding out as much as possible beforehand, the surgeon hopes to prevent too many operations. Obviously I will then need Tamoxifen or similar, so will appreciate helpful advice about that. 

But I'd be interested on anyone's 'take' on her plan. I feel reassured that she took time with me, and the BC nurse afterwards spent a good while too. 

Hugs xxx

  • I hope you are enjoying beautiful Dorset moomy. I am now about three weeks behind on posts. 

    I have had a terrible night. On top of the dreadful pain in my shoulders, arms hips and back I also ache all over presumably from the flu jab I had on Tuesday.

    I have an oncologist/surgeon appointment this morning to discuss the pain so may please borrow LP, LondonLass, if he is free?

  • Sorry I missed hubs anniversary . Safe travels, adventure. I seem to recall you’re having a meet-up?

    xx

    “ The only constant thing in life is change “

  • Sadly no LP to accompany me. Felt very alone and was made to feel like I was wasting their time. Told me they didn't think the pain in my shoulders and arms is from the Letrozole. Admitted stopping for 6 weeks does come with a  ery small risk of the can error coming back but then that risk exists even when on Letrozole. So agreed to stop for 6 weeks to see if any improvement. If not she thinks I need a rheumatology referral. 

    Feeling lonely and sad

  • Sorry couldn't modify the spelling errors but you get the gist

  • Hi  sorry you’re having such a rough time.  I think I remember you’ve also started taking Lansoprazole? It maybe worth trying to talk to a Clinical Pharmacist? Sometimes Doctor Surgeries now have one. They are experts in medications, interactions and side effects. 

    I have suffered in the past from terrible shoulder pain, so completely sympathise with you. Mine turned out to be referred pain, I had infection in my liver. 

    Anyway sending you lots of hugs. You’re not alone we are all here. 

    Karen xx

  • That is really interesting and quite worrying as they are reviewing me for liver issues.

  •  I wish I’d not mentioned it now! 

    Your liver function tests can also be affected by meds, so don’t worry.

    Mine was completely treatable with antibiotics. I have a genetic condition which causes cysts in liver and kidneys, so apparently sometimes they get infected. I’m totally not letting it worry me anymore.  

    Trouble is you end up with different specialists who don’t necessarily understand you as a whole. I hope you get answers, and get on top of your pain. xx

  • Oh  so sorry you are in so much pain, I have been battling for months with debilitating pain but finally think we are getting somewhere.

    As  says ask if your GP has a clinical pharmacist they can take a broad look at current meds against conditions/symptoms and see where a tweak could make all the difference.

    Also ask your consultant to refer you to the Enhanced Supportive Care team if you have one in your area, they deal with pain management and support, occupational therapists, physios, welfare rights and much much more even to advising on aids to use to decrease pain.

    Sending the most gentle but huge hug. Heart️

    take care lovely xx

    SantababyHeart️
  • Santababy I am so pleased to hear they are finally beginning to get your pain under some control.

    Unfortunately, my oncologist does not really seem to be interested in me or my pain and has said that any referrals need to be from the GP. I got the strong impression she was annoyed at having to give up her valuable time to me. You have had your surgery and RT, what more do you want from us attitude.She actually said she wouldn't be bothered if I stopped the letrozole permanently.

  •  that’s such a poor attitude from them. Don’t give up on getting this sorted.

    As  says there is help out there, just getting the right person to refer you. Have you a friendly GP that would help? 

    xx