Has my cancer returned?

I was diagnosed with grade 3 invasive ductal carcinoma in July last year. I had a lumpectomy, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. I will have my last dose of radiotherapy on Tuesday. The nurse gave me ointment to help keep my skin moisturised. I've been using it morning and night but last night I noticed something that feels like the lump. Don't know if I'm being paranoid. Could the cancer be back?

  • Hello and thanks for your post

    The lump you feel could be due to a build up of scar tissue from the breast surgery or radiotherapy. However, I can't say this for sure.

    The best thing to do is to contact your breast care team who can assess you and decide if you need to have further tests. If you have a breast specialist nurse involved in your care then perhaps they can provide you with further information. You often have to call and leave them a message and they will get back to you.

    I hope you know more about your situation soon. Give us a ring if you would like to talk things over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Best wishes,

    Celene

  • Thanks for your reply. It turned out I had an end of treatment appointment with a nurse after my radiotherapy today and she was able to set my mind at rest. Apparently the radiotherapy can cause swelling.