Fear of recurrence

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I finished active treatment in June having had chemo lumpectomy radiotherapy and herceptin. Now on letrozole and bio phosphates. I have been back for two check ups since June and doctor found internal scar tissue a first time and then swelling two months later. Both issues are “normal “. I now have a dent in my breast. I am wondering whether to contact nurse again as it’s only two months since I was told all ok. I don’t want to be seen as being paranoid and wasting their time. On the other hand I am constantly scared. Does anyone have any advice?

  • Hello Zooey

    I would contact your BCN again.

    Not because I think something is wrong but because I think you need reassurance rather than worrying about it. If it did turn out to be something that needs looking into then it is better to do that sooner rather than later. 

    I had a different type of cancer to you but have regular check ups. I just happened to be on here when your post came up so I hope you do not mind me replying.

    My CNS would want me to call with any symptoms or changes that were worrying me.  Although you had a check up 2 months ago- this is something different so its not being paranoid or wasting anyones time. Give them a call and they will soon be able to tell you whether it is something worth going in to be checked or whether it is something to monitor until your next routine check. It's very natural to feel scared- I constantly worry about anything recurring - but although I also had a check only 6 weeks ago- if I had anything crop up- I would be straight on the phone.

    Good Luck- I hope they can give you some reassurance

    Jane

           

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

  • Thanks so much Jane. I’ll give breast care nurse a call on Monday. You’re right when you say it’s better to get checked out rather than worrying. 

  • They would much rather you call than worry. They are trained to recognise what needs checking and what is a normal thing to happen while you are recovering. Hopefully a 5 minute call will put your mind at rest. Good Luck

           

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

  • Hi zooey

    as jane2511 said I would contact your bcn just to put your mind at rest.

    I had chemo, lumpectomy and radiotherapy 2yrs ago and have had 2 mammograms since which were both clear.

    I am now waiting for reconstruction fat transfer as I was left with quite a large dent from where they took the cancer out.

    when you have radiotherapy they tell you to be prepared for changes in your breast  it will take about 12months to settle down.

    If you have any questions please feel free to ask. 

    Good luck with everything 

    carolyn

  • Thanks Carolyn. It’s just over a year since operation. Doctor said it would take up to two years for things to settle. I do tend to overthink and then panic!  But will phone them to check good you have had two clear mammogram and good luck with reconstruction 

  • Thanks for your kind and encouraging words Jane