Hi, I had breast cancer 8 years ago and am currently on letrozole. I’ve had discomfort in my left hip for about 6 weeks off and on, only after sitting for a while or when lying down at night and in the morning. Initially it was a sharp pain which made me exclaim when I stood up but now it’s just an ache and it’s not there when I’m moving around. I can’t help worrying that it’s bone mets. I’ve made a gp appt but not until Oct 10th! I’m 54 so know I have to expect more aches and pains but the worry is awful.
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Im 54 too, had similar symptoms in the past, plus backache every night. But that pre-dates my diagnosis, so I’m guessing its just my age and perimenopause as not hit menopause quite yet. I mentioned it to a BCN after my radiotherapy and she pretty much dismissed it and said its not of concern unless I found ibuprofen and paracetamol dont help. Like you, totally fine moving around. This is life after a diagnosis I suppose. We are always going to wonder at things. I’m only a year after treatment. Hope you are able to get your mind put at ease by your GP. Just meantime letting you know that as a woman of same age, I’ve had all sorts of aches and pains, quite possibly as do a bit of running these days which although good for health in some ways, Im not convinced its doing my joints and back any favours.
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It can be a worrying time, can you get back in touch with your breast care team and ask for an earlier assessment?
Thanks for replying. I’m signed off with the breast care team now so I have to go through gp. I’m probably being paranoid but it’s hard not to think cancer after what we’ve been through, I think
Thanks for replying. Yes, I’m hoping it’s an age thing - I was also told about the painkillers at the time but then Dr Google (
I know I shouldn’t!) says the pain can come and go and is often worse at night. It’s hard to balance the worry, isn’t it? Well done on the running - my knees are shot, I blame 5yrs of tamoxifen!
Hi fascinatingnarwhal
Thank you for posting. Nearly everyone who has been treated for cancer worries about it coming back (recurrence) and you’re not alone in being anxious about this.
Most breast cancers don’t come back after treatment but it is understandable that you are worried about the signs of bone metastases after experiencing hip pain for 6 weeks. As you and @entropy mention, the pain you are experiencing can have many causes, including wear and tear as you get older.
It is good that your pain seems to be improving but it’s always important to get any new and persistent symptom checked out, so it is good to hear that you have already made an appointment with your GP. If you haven’t already, you can contact your practice again to explain your history of breast cancer, and the anxiety you are experiencing, as they may be able to bring your appointment forward. If not, you may want to contact the practice manager about this.
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Best wishes
Katy
Breast Care Nurse
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