Is this secondaries or just another scare?

Ever since I was diagnosed with BC nearly 4 years ago I have had every few months a real scare that I’ve got secondaries - I’ve had so many x-rays and blood tests its untrue.

There seems to be a pattern - every three months I have some symptoms (back pain, hip pain etc) I go and see the onc - he orders x-ray which shows nothing then pain miraculously goes away.

Now I’m here with my latest one - I think I’ve got lung mets (pain between the shoulders, a cold that won’t go away, feeling unwell …). How long shall I wait before I go and ask for some tests.n Is it really it this time or just another of these scares?

Do any of you recognise this cycle? How can I get out of it?

Hi Susie

It sounds like you’re going through a difficult time at the moment. Maybe it would help to talk this through in confidence with some one from the BCC helpline. Here you will be able to share your worries and concerns with a trained member of staff who is either a breast care nurses or has personal experience of breast care issues. The number to call is 0808 800 6000 the lines open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm and Saturdays 9am - 2pm.

The staff are there to offer you a listening ear as well as support and information so please give them a call if you think it will help.

Kind regards
Sam (BCC Facilitator)

Yes I recognise the cycle very well.I am sorry for my lovely GP who always listens and is very reassuring.My current panic is also lung mets because I get a bronchitis type cough every few weeks.In my case onc and GP say that because it gets better for a couple of weeks then comes back it is related to my asthma.I dont think you need feel scared of not being taken seriously.The rule is,if it has been there for 3 weeks with no improvement at all then have it checked out.Thats their job,its your life.I dont think the fear ever goes completely.Good Luck,Valxx