Received letter to go for Bisphosphonate Infusion - had sort of forgot about & now again am having panic attacks/tight chest/flashbacks to other treatment & feel really ill & severe migraines.
Worried about side effects - don’t need anymore than I already have I am so upset & crying & anxious.
Can anyone help please.
Hi MoDo - I’m really sorry to read about your anxiety. I know we’ve spoken in the past, so I’m happy to chat if I can do anything to help. I didn’t have the bisphosphonate infusion so I can’t comment on the side effects, but I’m sure someone will be along to reassure you. Or try searching the forum to see discussions about the side effects. I think I’ve read that the first one makes some people feel a bit flu like (but equally I might be wrong about that), but remember that everyone reacts differently and you may get no side effects.
You could also try calling the helpline to get advice about side effects and help for your anxiety, or your BCN?
Big hugs, xx
Hi MoDo
Having experienced flashbacks and panic attacks for much of my adult life, I really feel for you. It must be a double whammy. BUT it’s a perfectly normal response to trauma and there’s no disputing breast cancer treatments are physically and emotionally traumatising.
Regarding the biphosphonate IV, I’ve had three now, one concealed in an EC treatment and therefore well-protected by steroids. On its own tho, the zometa infusion is very quick (cannula, saline flush, zometa, saline flush - 30 minutes?), I’ve experienced nothing during the treatments and only a mild fatigue for a few days after - and I had every side effect (and probably introduced a few more to the list) from my chemotherapy and hormone therapy. So I’d say there’s little to worry about in terms of the actual IV or what follows - it’s mild if it’s anything. And it does reduce the likelihood of a recurrence in the bones as well as the bonus of strengthening your bones in an oestrogen-free life. For me, the problem was how they have to warn you about all possible effects, no matter how unlikely - and some are pretty terrifying. But they are so rare and all that’s required is reasonable dental hygiene/up-to-dateness.
In terms of the anxiety, my oncologist prescribed 2 lorazepam for just before chemo because of my panic disorder and it worked a treat. There’s no harm in asking your GP for something similar. Sometimes just the knowledge that there’s something to see you through it if you need it is enough. There’s no point in suggesting mindfulness and meditation with panic attacks, not at such short notice!
I hope you manage to get yourself grounded again. It’s a slog but worth it. Take care,
Jan x