Shin pain/unexplained bruises on thighs after breast cancer

Hi,

I am probably worrying about nothing but I have recently been getting really bad shin pains during the night which actually wake me up.  I also have lots of unexplained bruises on my thighs.

I was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in October 2020, had a lumpectomy in December 2020 and radiotherapy in March 2021.

Should I go to my GP?  Or is it just aches and pains of a 53.5 year old?  I am just concerned the cancer has spread.

Any advice would be gratefully received.

  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear that you have been treated for breast cancer in the past.

    The symptoms that you are experiencing may not be connected at all but it is always a good idea to get any new symptoms checked out even if it is for peace of mind.

    Because of the bruising on your thighs the doctors may want to do a simple blood test but of course I can't be sure. 

    Make a list of all the symptoms that you are experiencing and how long you have had them for so your GP can get a proper picture of what is going on.

    I hope that you manage to make an appointment soon.

    All the Best,

    Catherine

  • Thank you Catherine for your quick response.

    I will make a GP appointment for peace of mind.

  • Hi Peggy, 

    I just came across your thread and wondered how your shin pain is now and if you had it checked out? My mum just had lumpectomy in April and has persistent shin pain in one leg. Hope you're doing ok x 

  • Hello Chlo4689,

    I have popped on here because Peggy might not reply to you as her post is over a year old.

    I am sorry to hear that your mum has had surgery for breast cancer. I think she needs to let her breast care nurse know about the pain she has. Of course, people can get pain in their body for many reasons so it is not necessarily anything to do with breast cancer but it would still be a good idea to get checked out.

    You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Take care,

    Caroline