Hi Pommy8
It is understandable that you feel scared. Nearly everyone who has been treated for cancer worries about it coming back (recurrence). You’re not alone in being anxious about this, especially as you are having investigations for possible breast cysts.
Unlike breast cancer, breast cysts are a benign (not cancer) condition. They’re one of the most common causes of a breast lump and can develop in either one or both breasts. It’s thought they develop naturally as the breast changes with age due to normal changes in hormone levels.
Most breast cancers don’t come back after treatment, but as you say, it is common for a breast to feel hard and lumpy after surgery and radiotherapy.
The uncertainty and fear of breast cancer returning is very real and although it can cause a lot of anxiety having ultrasound scans and biopsies, it is important to get this area check out.
Talking to someone who has had a similar experience can be helpful and our Someone Like Me service can match you with a trained volunteer who’s had a similar experience to you. They'll be a phone call or email away to answer your questions, offer support or simply listen.
You can ring the Someone Like Me team on 0114 263 6490 or email them at someone.likeme@breastcancernow.org, so they can then match you to your volunteer.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen to your concerns, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information. 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).
If you would prefer one of our nurses to call you. To do this, please complete this form ticking the box agreeing to a call back.
Our usual opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and 9am -1pm on Saturday.
Out of hours you can leave a message and we will call you back when we next open.
Best wishes
Victoria
Breast Care Nurse
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