Welcome to the forum, ElizabethK.

I'm sorry to hear about the lump you've discovered in your breast, and I understand how concerning it must be, especially with your upcoming heart surgery on the horizon. That being said, it's a positive step that you've been referred to the breast clinic for further evaluation. 

Feel free to share any thoughts or worries you may have about your situation. Whether it's seeking advice, sharing experiences, or simply finding a listening ear, know that you're not alone, there's always someone here to listen.

The other thing I wanted to mention is that while you navigate this situation if you feel that it could be helpful to ask someone with a medical background a few questions, our team of nurses is ready to take your call on this number 0808 800 4040 Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m.  

Take care of yourself, and don't hesitate to reach out whenever you need to. 

Best wishes,

Renata, Cancer Chat Moderator

Hello and thanks for posting,

When you are being assessed by the breast cancer team, (should this be the outcome from the breast clinic), they would take a full medical history, and would be making contact with the cardiac team, to confirm clinical details. 

Every patient is different, and requires an individual assessment prior to starting any therapy. Radiotherapy may be able to be given to certain areas of breast tissue for example. In the case of surgery, an anaesthetist would request any additional tests and investigations necessary, before advising a surgeon of the suitability of a spinal or general anaesthetic. Other further treatments such as hormone therapy can also be given if appropriate. 

We have information about the various breast cancer treatments here,

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/treatment

I hope that you find out more soon.

Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  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.

Yours sincerely,

Vanda

Hi ElizabethK, I am not a nurse but do have many heart issues as well as cancer, I had a leaky/faulty valve repaired over 50 years ago and it's still working. My consultants have started a cardio-oncology partnership for me and the only treatment they won't recommend are anthacycline's in chemotherapy as my heart wouldn't cope with the toxicity. take care.

Eddie

Hello Vanda,

Thank you for answering me. I am hoping to have heart valve surgery soon, I have had all my pre ops so shouldn't be too long now. My understanding is that the operation will restore my life to what it was before the heart condition ie swimming and ball room dancing. My anxiety is through the roof as this lump has just come at the worst ever time. One of my worries is that the heart op would cause a dangerous delay in any potential cancer treatment. There are two different NHS trusts involved so I hope that wouldn't be too much of a problem. 

Elizabeth

Thank you for answering me 

It's such an anxious time and I am hoping for a heart valve operation hopefully any day. Its given me great encouragement that your valve is still working after so many years. Finding this lump has just come at the worst time. 

ELIZABETH 

No thanks needed but appreciated, I have had 5 minor heart Ops since starting treatment for cancer and treatment schedule never changed, I don't know if the fault with your valve is prolapse or regurgitation, or if open or keyhole surgery is planned, but from experience 4 to 6 weeks recovery is needed and your heart will be stronger than before. so more treatment options may be possible