Hi there, I was diagnosed 2022, grade 3 stage 3 hormome positive, 10cm and 3cm plus 9 lymph nodes. Ive had mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy and Im on zoladex, letrozole, bisphosphonates and abemaciclib.
As im on the targeted therapy abemaciclib i have monthly bloods. My calcium has always been at the higher end which was surprising seeing as bisphosphonates reduce calcium, so they took me off calcium tablets a few months ago.
Despite this, and despite a bisphosphonates infusion in April, my calcium has been high, and yesterday had gone even higher so they have booked me in to see the consultant next Wed to discuss further investigations.
I’m fearful as it seems likely to be a sign of bone mets.
Has anyone experienced similar? With that outcome or others?
Thanks, NorthernJay xx
Hi NorthernJay
Thanks for your post.
It’s understandable that you’re feeling fearful because you don’t know what is causing your high calcium level.
It is very natural to have concerns about recurrence after breast cancer. Nearly everyone who has been treated for cancer worries about it coming back (recurrence) and you’re not alone in being anxious about this. The uncertainty and fear of breast cancer returning is very real.
It’s good to read you have an appointment to discuss your raised calcium with your consultant next Wednesday. You may find it reassuring to read that there can be many reasons for a raised calcium especially when you’re on a combination of treatments for your breast cancer. Some of these treatments can sometimes cause side effects which may have an impact on your blood results.
Your consultant will be able to assess all your blood results which will help to give them a clearer picture of how your body is coping with treatment. Usually, the body is very good at regulating calcium levels by retaining or excreting excess calcium via the kidneys and other glands to keep it within normal range. However, sometimes cancer treatments can put certain organs under more stress, and this can sometimes impact on your blood results.
They will also ask you about any side effects you’re experiencing and how you feel you’re coping with treatment. It’s important to let your treatment team know about any new symptoms you may have so they can decide whether you need further investigation.
It’s very normal to feel anxious while you’re waiting for further discussion and tests and some people say this is the most worrying part, whatever the outcome is. You may find our information on how you might be able to support yourself emotionally at this time helpful.
You may also be interested in our Someone Like Me service where we can match you up with a trained volunteer who has been through a similar experience to you.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Heidi
Breast Care Nurse
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