As we intimated in part 1 of this 2-part series (you can read it here), a breast cancer diagnosis can be devastating for several reasons. Of course, however, there are steps we can take to ensure the journey of survival to wellness is a successful one.
The first step is understanding what it really means to be diagnosed with breast cancer; starting with being able to recognize common symptoms. So, here is a short list of symptoms to add to those highlighted in part 1.
05. Scarring
Scars are likely for breast cancer patients who have had surgery. The tissue around the cuts in the skin may scar and harden. Of course, with surgery (and scarring) the shape of the breast may change. For some surgical procedures (like a Lumpectomy), the scare may fade away.
To deal with the aftermath of surgery or scarring breast cancer patients and those caring for them can have a candid conversation with doctors so that they may better understand and manage expectations. Likewise, sexual partners will need to have candid conversations about possible changes to the body, and consequently mental health and the relationship in general.
06. Sex and Fertility
Another way that a breast cancer diagnosis and the resulting treatment may impact patients and those around them is through slowing down one's sex drive, increasing anxiety, pain, and tiredness. Additionally, chemotherapy and hormone therapy may decrease one's chances of getting pregnant when one does have sex.
It is important for breast cancer patients and their partners to speak with their doctor and/or a fertility specialist for additional support in this area of ex and fertility. Similarly, a mental health expert can help with issues of self-esteem and anxiety.
07. Organ Tumors and Other Diseases
The lungs, liver, and other organs can be affected by breast cancer if the condition metastasizes through the blood stream and spread to other areas of the body. The result can be brain, bones, liver, and lung tumors, as well as tumors in other places. Other complications from the spread of breast cancer include blocked blood vessels, pressure on the spinal cord, and bone fractures.
Radiation therapy can sometimes cause pulmonary fibrosis which inadvertently causes scarring on the lungs. Symptoms of this condition can include: dry coughing, difficulty breathing, and chest pains.
These less common symptoms will show up 2 to 3 months after treatment for breast cancer ends. To treat these symptoms, doctors may prescribe steroids to treat this. Finally, Chemotherapy drugs can exacerbate existing heart problems.
Conclusion: Stay Positive and On Top Of Your Health
It is important to remember that the symptoms highlighted in this two-part series are not meant to scare you or add to the natural anxiety that may accompany a breast cancer diagnosis. Instead, it is designed to empower you and help you take the reigns of your health and wellness along with the help of your Oncologist and other doctors.
Finally, if you are a woman (or you know one) who has been diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in Jamaica, then our FREE chemotherapy treatments offered in collaboration with the University Hospital of the West Indies, Oncology Clinic, (UHWI) based in Kingston, Jamaica, may be able to help. Contact us to learn more.
Now It's Your Turn!
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