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Cervical cancer

Debs_W
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I was diagnosed with cervical cancer in August 2024. Stage 4.  I had chemotherapy, then chemotherapy and radiotherapy and then brachytherapy. Treatment ended late January this year. Since then I have suffered side effects. Back pain, tiredness, bowel urgency etc. However, for about 10 days now I have had a dead leg. My right leg. Every day. Despite painkillers and hot baths. And, more worryingly intermittent sharp shoulder pain. Also, right side. Also, not relieved by painkillers. I had my MRI scan to see if treatment worked last week and my oncologist sent me for a full spinal MRI also just to double check. Results on Wednesday. I'm just really worried about this sharp shoulder pain. It hurts so much when it comes on. It hurts to breathe even. It lasts an hour or two then goes away. Could this be normal? Like a trapped nerve or something? 

Thank you 

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I’m sorry to read about your situation. It sounds like you are going through a lot.

    The treatments you had can take a toll on your body even months after treatment has finished. The side effects like tiredness, bowel urgency and back pain are unfortunately quite common, and they can linger on for a while.

    As for the sharp pain in your right shoulder and the dead feeling in your leg, it sounds like your doctors have taken this seriously as you’ve had a full spinal MRI scan. Symptoms can be caused by several things, and while a recurrence of the cancer may be one possibility, it's not the only reason. This may be linked to a trapped nerve. Sometimes radiation effects on nerves or bones can cause the pain and discomfort.

    It is never easy waiting to get results but it’s good that you will receive them tomorrow.

    Give us a ring if you want to talk anything over with one of the nurses. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Best wishes,

    Celene

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