Bone mets

Hi- I have bone mets- diagnosed Sep 2019- I think the majority is in my pelvis but my right hand side is so painful just now- started a few days ago and not sure why. I spoke to my GP and upped painkillers for a few days to see if it makes a difference-I’ve been attached to my hot water bottle which is my saviour as it gives me a breather from the pain. I’m on longtec, shortec and Naproxen- I started on codeine but then changed to these as I Felt I was watching hours and always pill popping! I’m also trying some of the heat patches and gels. I’ve tried lidocaine patches but I think they either work or they don’t work for people and I didn’t think they did anything for me. The GP is calling me again Monday to see how things are. But apart from that, I’m out of ideas! I’m waiting on more scans but they are 3 weeks away and not sure I can wait that long!

Thanks for reply - perhaps I’ll see if can get stronger painkillers 

take care x

Hi Winship

Thanks for getting in touch. My name is Louise and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses here on the Support Line.

First of all, have you mentioned the lower back pain to your healthcare team? If you have any new or worsening symptoms it’s important to let someone know straight away. We would suggest you phone 111 so they can assess you. They can also arrange for medications to help with the pain to make you more comfortable.

The reason it’s important to let someone know about the pain straight away is because sometimes cancer can spread to the spine and press on the spinal cord (spinal cord compression). This is considered a medical emergency because without treatment it can cause more serious damage. It might not be spinal cord compression, but it’s important to get the pain checked out just in case.

It sounds like you’ve had a difficult time, first thinking the issues with your hip were arthritis, then finding out this was cancer such a long time after you were originally diagnosed, having the surgery and now going from thinking you were having a tablet and injections to then being told the treatment is chemotherapy and intravenous drugs.

Starting treatment can be daunting for anyone as it’s something new and unknown. Cancer can cause a range of emotions, and it’s natural to feel scared. Some people find having the right information can help them understand the treatment and what to expect, which can make things seem a little easier. We have some information on treatment for breast cancer, and also some information on PICC lines which you might find helpful to look at.

It’s also challenging not being able to see your team face to face due to Covid-19 restrictions. Your oncology team are there to support you and answer questions, and you don’t have to wait for the next appointment to speak with them.

You can let your oncology team know how you are feeling, and they can talk thing through with you. You can also let them know about your back pain too. Sometimes it can help to write down questions you’d like to ask your healthcare team so you get the most out of the time you spend on the phone with them. You can contact your consultant or clinical nurse specialist (CNS) via the medical secretaries and leave them a message which they can pass on for you.

It’s really important to look after yourself. Sometimes it can be helpful to share experiences with others in a similar situation. I can see you have joined the breast cancer and secondary breast cancer forums on here. These groups are a great source of support from people who understand. Breast Cancer Now also has a forum with a range of support, and you can find local support in your area. You can also talk to your GP, they are there to support you and help manage your pain.

Best wishes,

Louise R

Thanks for support - I have told oncologist about back pain when he rang on Xmas eve -he did mention symptoms to look out for in case pressing on spinal cord - just said to continue with codeine as pain relief or ring nurses if no better

i will see how goes over weekend - took some naproxen this morning which did ease it a bit 

Hi I was diagnosed with spine cancer on th 17.12.20. Have had 2MRI scans it’s in the lumber area and two bones one the bra line, due for a CT scan on Thursday got to drink some stuff then have an injection before I go into the scanner, they checking the chest, pelvis and bowel, doctor rang last week said I was to have tablets for Chemo and an injection in stomach it has come from breast cancer in 2017 had Radiotheraphy and Letrozol. Terrified now that they are going to find  something else on the scan.

,

Hope you are ok - it’s such a shock when it comes back

i am in awful pain in back - awaiting call from surgery re pain killers - do not start any treatment for another 2 weeks ! 
I am sure it’s getting worse ! 

Thinking of you Winship.

live had pain in hip, it lessens but increases with walking or after exercises for osteoarthritis, was given these after emailing my symptoms to my GP.

im waiting for oncology call today.

I have a bone density scan end of March. I’m on Anastrazole after Tamoxifen for 12 years. Am also fatigued which makes feel down!

jan 

Hi there - got my pain sorted now taking zoromorph twice a day which seems to work

had 2 rounds of treatment- chemo with docatexel and trastumumab and pertuzumbab 

working through side effects - good days and bad days - but just hope it works !

got a ct scan 19 March to see if any progress 

My only problem at moment is I wish I could stand up straight! Walking like an old woman !

take care and hope all goes well for you