Cancer Research UK main site

Remaining breast is sore

Snookie1971
Offline

Hi

I had a mastectomy in September and the report showed that the tumour had no response to two different Chemo's. So it was a nasty little so and so.

I'm currently on Capecitabine and have just finished cycle 5 out of 8.  I see my chemo nurse on Friday.   

I am a little worried as my surviving breast become sore a week or so ago.  It is still tender in places.  I've examined myself and whilst there is nothing as obvious as the original tumour there are areas that I'm concerned about.   Near my armpit feels like pellets and thete there seems to be thickened areas in the breast. Underneath the breast is sore to touch. I WILL mention all of on Friday. 

My question is what is the likelihood that the cancer has returned.   Part of me understands that my scans from October were clear and I'm on chemo, so it's unlikely. But I know what I can feel and can't think of another reason for this.  Can lightning strike twice?

I know that at least half the battle isn't physical, it's a mental thing.  That your minds will go to dark places.  I'm paranoid as my original tumour got out of hand in a relatively short space of time and the first two chemos didn't have any effect.  I'm trying not to worry, but I cant help it.

Also, I am experiencing breathlessness.   I mentioned this at my last appointment.   It was put down as a side effect.  I have just hung a small load of washing out and felt exhausted and puffed at the end.  I'm not coughing any phlegm.   Although I've had 3 occasions where I saw the tiniest amount of blood - I'm not coughing really though, these were isolated instances.   Do I mention on Friday.   Is this likely to be just a side effect of chemo?

Sorry for being paranoid, but thanks for any help that you can give. 

Regards

 

  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry you to hear about your situation and the difficult time that you have had. 

    It is very natural to worry about any side effects that you experience and for your mind to think the worst. Chemotherapy does come with the side effects that you are experiencing. The  tiredness and breathlessness may be the results of a low blood count but of course I can't be sure. it is important that you make a list of all the different side effects so the nurses when they see you can make a proper assessment. 

    I think that you have to be reassured that all your scans have been clear. Every patients experience to treatment is unique so I can't comment on your particular situation. As you say yourself it is very easy for your mind to play tricks with you. Hopefully on Friday when you see the nurse  and you are assessed they will be able to put your mind at rest. Do let them know how you are feeling and the effect that it is having on you.

    I am not sure what support you are getting for yourself whilst this is going on. If your hospital is near a Maggie centre or there is one you can join they do offer incredible support for patients and their families. Have a look at their details here

    Breast Cancer Now offer a service called 'Someone like Me' which you can put you in touch with other women in a similar situation. Have a look here

    If you feel that you would like to chat through any of this with one of the nurses on the helpline then do get back to us or give us a ring.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040. We are here Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.

    All the Best,

    Catherine

  • Offline

    Hello

     

    I would ask for an mri scan of your breasts if you haven't already had one. Lobular breast cancer doesn't always show up on mammograms or ultrasounds and thickening can be a sign of it.

    I really hope its not and hopefully everything continues to be clear for you xxx

  • Offline in reply to GalaxyRipple

    Just an update...

    I saw my Cancer Doctor on Friday.  He examined me thoroughly.   He has no concerns over my breast, but was bothered by my breathlessness.   He confirmed my chest sounded clear, with no wheezing.   He ordered a range of tests.  X-ray was clear.  ECG was normal.  I had a CT scan with contrast dye.

    The CT showed a small blood clot on my right lung near the top.  I'm having daily blood thinning injections in my tummy for 3 months for that.  They've also spotted a single lung nodule which they are treating as infection with Doxycycline.   Although I've almost completed the course and there's no improvement.  

    Also my CA15, creatine and ALT bloods were slightly raised. Chemo has been paused to allow me to recover and my strength to return. 

    I am waiting an appointment letter as the Doctor wants to see me again on Friday.  I will have repeat blood tests and the Doctor will discuss the next steps.

    Obviously I'm concerned about the nodule.  Whilst it could be infection, I'm concerned it's something else.  I will wait and see what the Doctor says and take it one step at a time. 

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.