Breast Cancer Now Forum

Hi Eva Thanks for your post. Many people worry that their family members may be at an increased risk of developing breast cancer after having received a diagnosis themselves. However, having a family history of breast cancer does not automatically mean your daughters are at a greater risk of developing breast cancer in the future. The biggest risk factors for developing breast cancer are being a woman and increasing age. There are only a small number of people who will be at a greater risk of developing breast cancer because they have a significant family history. It’s not possible for us to say whether your breast cancer was hereditary. This can only be confirmed after a family history assessment and, if appropriate, for you to undergo genetic testing. Both maternal and paternal family histories are relevant to an assessment, however they are considered separately to check whether any genetic change has been passed down one blood line or the other. You can ask your own treatment team to assess your personal situation. Because treatments and healthcare services vary so much in different countries, it is difficult for us to answer queries from outside of the UK. The information we offer is specific to what is currently available in the UK. I’m unsure whether your daughters are also living in Canada.  However, here in the UK the usual practice would be for their own GP to refer them to the local family history service for assessment. If the information suggests they are at an increased risk they would then be given appropriate advice about screening depending on their situation and age. Our booklet about Family history, genes and breast cancer explains more about this. If they’re in the UK, your daughters would be welcome to call our Helpline to talk this through or ask any further questions. Calls are confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001).  Alternatively our Helpline is available for anyone to call from overseas on +44 20 3553 2277 for which there is a call charge. Our 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 Catherine Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

Hi YNWALFC Thanks for posting. Although it’s difficult for us to comment on individual cases, many people have asked us if their treatment for breast cancer means they are at higher risk of getting coronavirus (COVID-19) or of becoming seriously ill if they develop it and so should shield. Shielding is a practice used to protect extremely vulnerable people from coming into contact with coronavirus. As far as we know, the majority of people who have had breast cancer will not be at any higher risk and so can follow the advice given for the rest of the population in their area of the UK. This includes those having radiotherapy to the breast and/or lymph nodes for primary breast cancer, as radiotherapy does not affect the overall ability of the immune system to fight infection.  Those who may be at higher risk and considered extremely vulnerable include anyone with low immunity, such as people currently having chemotherapy.   As you have had conflicting advice, it would be best to contact your treatment team again, as they are familiar with your individual situation. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Catherine Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

Hi Kim Thanks for posting. It’s natural to be concerned about the changes in your menstrual cycle when you’re taking tamoxifen, as it can disrupt your periods. You don’t say what age you are. However, if you’re pre-menopausal, it is possible that your periods do continue whilst taking tamoxifen, although for some people their periods may stop. As you say, one of the side effects of these tablets, is a thickening of the womb lining (endometrium) which can cause a discharge or bleeding. It’s difficult to be specific about what’s causing the change to your usual cycle, so it would be best to contact your treatment team about this.  They may be able to reassure you or can do further investigations such as a scan on your womb if necessary. We offer a range of free supportive services that you might be interested in. For more details about all of these services, please see the information on the link. Our services normally includes face to face support at a number of locations throughout the country. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve had to take the difficult decision to suspend all of our face-to-face services for now. The Helpline, Ask Our Nurses, Someone Like Me  are all still running as usual. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Addie Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

Hi mary77 Thanks for posting. It’s understandable you`re feeling anxious about the symptoms you have noticed. It’s not possible to say what may be causing the red patch and burning sensation in your breast but breast changes can happen for many reasons. They may be due to hormonal changes as part of your monthly cycle (period) or due to benign conditions (not cancer). You’ll probably find your breasts change quite a bit throughout your life. You mention that you had a mammogram and ultrasound which showed a possible fibroadenoma. It is not clear from your post how recent this was and if you had a biopsy.   As you are still worried about these changes it would be best to contact your GP to discuss this again.  Your GP may be able to reassure you or if necessary, can refer you back to the breast clinic. For more details about breast health, see our booklet Know your breasts: a guide to breast awareness and screening. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Wendy Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

  Hi lotrose77 Thanks for posting asking symptoms under your arm following your operation. Although it’s not possible for us to say what may be causing the hardness you are feeling under your arm.  After surgery, some people develop a tight ‘cord’ of tissue under the skin, causing pain and restricting arm movement. This is referred to as cording. The cord is not always visible but can usually be felt. This cord often starts in the armpit and can vary in length. No one is sure what causes cording, but it may happen when lymph vessels (which carry lymph fluid from the arm) become hardened. Stretching the cord can improve your symptoms and you may need physiotherapy to help with this. Cording usually gets better with physiotherapy and exercise. As you have noticed these symptoms it may be helpful to let your breast care nurse or treatment team know so they can assess you. We offer a range of free supportive services that you might be interested in. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Louise Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

Hi Appagirl Thanks for posting. Breast changes, including dry flaky skin, can happen for many reasons. They may be due to benign conditions (not cancer). In rare cases, it could be a sign of Paget’s disease if it’s on, or around, the nipple. However, it’s not possible for us to say what’s causing the rash on your breast.  As you have noticed this change you can make an appointment with your GP, or treatment team if you are still under follow up, to have it checked.  We offer a range of free supportive services that you might be interested in. For more details about all of these services, please see the information on the link, or call our free Helpline Our services normally includes face to face support at a number of locations throughout the country. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve had to take the difficult decision to suspend all of our face-to-face services for now. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Addie Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

Hi Worrier Thanks for posting. It’s understandable that you’re worried that your bleeding could be due to side effects of tamoxifen. Tamoxifen can cause changes to your periods. For example, they may be lighter and/or irregular or they might stop altogether. Tamoxifen can also cause a thickening of the womb lining, which may cause bleeding. Uterine cancer is a rare side effect As you’re still bleeding, you could contact your GP to make a referral to your hospital team to discuss this. Your hospital appointment may be over the phone and you could talk over your concerns about going to the hospital, because of your concern about the risk of coronavirus. However, they may wish to see you or refer you for an ultrasound scan of your womb. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Addie Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

  Hi Evajk Thanks for your post. It sounds as if you’re having a tough time with the side effects of letrozole. We hear from many women who experience the symptoms you describe which can affect quality of life significantly. It’s difficult to say if taking a different hormone therapy would have similar side effects, as each person is different. However, sometimes changing to another type of medication may reduce the effects you’re having. You could go back to your hospital team to discuss this. You could also ask about your overall benefit of taking letrozole. Your team may suggest stopping it temporarily to see if your symptoms settle. It’s good that you’ve started exercising again. You might find increasing the muscle strengthening exercises will reduce joint stiffness. It’s understandable that you’re frustrated, still gaining weight whilst not eating a lot. Your GP may be able to offer you a healthy eating plan and tips on stimulating your appetite. Your tiredness and lack of energy may be due to not having a balanced diet. Your doctor might suggest doing a blood test to check for other causes. You mention mastectomy as an alternative to taking oestrogen inhibitors. Surgery to the breast removes the cancer (as you say, your surgery was a lumpectomy). Hormone therapy is given to reduce the risk of cancer returning to the breast or other parts of the body. Having a mastectomy would not help with this. We offer a range of free supportive services that you might be interested in. For more details about all of these services, please see the information on the link, or call our free Helpline Our services normally includes face to face support at a number of locations throughout the country. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve had to take the difficult decision to suspend all of our face-to-face services for now. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Addie Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

Hi 1972rach Thanks for posting. It sounds like a difficult time for you with such uncertainty about what will happen with your treatment.  You had expected to carry on with the trastuzumab treatment long term and you seemed to be getting on well with it until your latest cardiac scan identified a problem. It’s difficult to predict the long-term implications for people in your situation.  It’s usually managed on a case by case basis, by the cardiologist and oncologist, which may be why it’s hard to find research articles.  If people develop heart problems while on treatment, it’s not unusual for treatment to be stopped temporarily to see if the cardiac function improves.  Occasionally treatment may need to be stopped permanently and sometimes medication may be needed to treat any heart problems that do not reverse.  If you have a breast care nurse, it may be helpful to talk this though with her and to check if they plan to stop treatment temporarily to see what happens. It can be difficult to know what’s best when you get different opinions from the cardiologist and oncologist. It can sometimes be helpful to consider getting a second opinion either from another cardiologist or oncologist when this happens. You can chat with your GP or your breast care nurse if this is something you would like to do. Only a small number of people having trastuzumab develop heart problems but there have been some posts about this on this part of the forum  that may be of interest.  You can also post a question on that part of the forum if you would like feedback from other women. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Sometimes we can help people more by talking to them on the phone. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Eve Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread.     ... View more

Hi chesterbrownbear Thanks for posting. It’s not at all silly to wonder why you are still feeling so exhausted and to wonder if this is normal. Recovery after surgery involves healing both physically and emotionally, and recovery time will vary from person to person.  As its only two weeks since you had surgery and you may still be waiting to hear about the results from your surgery, it’s not unusual to feel very tired still.  It’s good to hear that you are normally active but most breast cancer treatments including surgery as well as the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis, can contribute to fatigue.  This will usually improve in the coming weeks and months as was Carol’s experience. Talking to someone who has had a similar experience can be helpful and our Someone Like Me service can arrange for one of our volunteers to talk to you by email or telephone. Our volunteers have had a personal experience of breast cancer and are trained to provide support. You can ring the Someone Like Me team on 0345 077 1893, or email them someone.likeme@breastcancernow.org so they can then match you to your volunteer.  You may also find our booklet Breast cancer and you: coping with diagnosis treatment and the future helpful at this time.  It discusses some of the emotional issues you may face during and after your treatment.  You may also like to know about our online Moving forward programme. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions.  Sometimes we can help people more by talking to them on the phone. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Eve Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread.     ... View more

Hi Hanan Thanks for posting about your recent diagnosis of breast cancer. It`s good to hear that your doctor was so positive. The aim of treatment for primary breast cancer is to remove all the cancer and reduce the risk of it coming back in the future.  Each person’s risk of cancer coming back is different. It depends on a number of factors including the type, stage, grade and size of the cancer, as well as your general health   In order to be as clear as possible, your treatment team are more likely to talk about your chances of survival over time or the possibility of you remaining free of cancer in the future.   It’s difficult for us to give an opinion about your individual cancer.  Because treatments and healthcare services vary so much in different countries, your treatment team are in the best position to talk to you as they are aware of all your details. It sounds as though you find our website helpful. However, Breast Cancer Now is a national organisation providing information and support to anyone living in the UK and the information we offer is specific to what is currently available in the UK.   You might find this link helpful in finding a cancer organisation in your country that may be useful Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001).  The number if you are calling from overseas is (+44) 20 3553 2277 and there is a charge for this. Our 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 Anne Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread.         ... View more

Hi Bbbd4 Thanks for posting It sounds as though you are very worried about the cough, dry throat, and pains in your chest area. We cannot say what is causing your symptoms or if they are related to your cancer but it’s understandable that you want to know what is going on. Radiotherapy can have side effects including tenderness over the ribs and a sore dry throat. Sometimes after treatment, part of the lung behind the treatment area can become inflamed, causing a dry cough or shortness of breath. This usually heals by itself over time.  It may be helpful to talk to your breast care nurse about these symptoms. Do tell her how worried you are that the cancer may have spread to your lungs.  As she knows your individual situation, she may be able to reassure you or if necessary, can arrange a clinic appointment for you.  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, or of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body, is very real.  At first, every ache or pain may frighten you, but most people find the anxiety lessens as the time goes on. Sometimes talking to someone who’s had a similar experience can be helpful and our Someone Like Me service can arrange for one of our volunteers to talk to you by email or telephone. Our volunteers have had a personal experience of breast cancer and are trained to provide support. You can ring the Someone Like Me team on 0345 077 1893, or email them 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. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Eve Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread.         ... View more

Hi Caitlyn Thanks for your post about the rash you have noticed on your breasts. It’s understandable you`re feeling anxious that it`s not going away. Is there a trusted adult such as a parent or family member you could talk to? Breast changes can happen for many reasons. They may be part of normal development, hormonal changes as part of your monthly cycle (period) or due to benign conditions (not cancer). You’ll probably find your breasts change quite a bit throughout your life. You can check out your rash with someone like your GP, a practice nurse (nurse based at the GP practice) or school nurse (if you have one). They will hopefully be able to explain what has caused the rash and put your mind at ease. If you feel embarrassed or uncertain about seeing a doctor you may be able take someone with you. In most practices they can offer you the choice of a female GP. You may find it interesting to read about some of the things teenage girls may notice about their breasts. You can give us a ring here on our confidential Helpline to talk about this a bit more if you like. It’s free (including from all mobile networks) and the number is 0808 800 6000. Our 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. Thank you for contacting us. Please contact us again in the future if you have any further queries. Kind regards Anne Breast Care Nurse Breast Cancer Now Ibex House, 42 - 47 Minories, London EC3N 1DY We’re Breast Cancer Now, and the charity that’s steered by world-class research and powered by life-changing care. We’re here for anyone affected by breast cancer, the whole way through, providing support for today and hope for the future.   Breast Cancer Now is a company limited by guarantee registered in England (9347608) and a charity registered in England and Wales (1160558), Scotland (SC045584) and the Isle of Man (1200). Registered Office: Fifth Floor, Ibex House, 42–47 Minories, London EC3N 1DY.   Please read the  Ask Our Nurses disclaimer   Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy ... View more

Hi lam477 Thank you for posting. Like any treatment, FEC can cause side effects. FEC can give you the feeling of a runny nose. This can be due to the lack of nasal hair. You may want to try gargling salt water and sucking on menthol sweets. FEC can also cause soreness and a gritty feeling in your eyes, or your eyes may water. Eye drops may be prescribed to relieve the soreness if this occurs. You mention you feel lightheaded. This could be a sign of dehydration so drink plenty of fluids. Headaches can be another side effect. These are usually mild and can be relieved with simple pain relief such as paracetamol. As you are feeling sick and because of your other symptoms, do speak to a member of your treatment team. It’s important they are aware of any side effects. You can be given different anti-sickness medication if necessary. Talking to someone who has had a similar experience can be helpful and our Someone Like Me service can arrange for one of our volunteers to talk to you by email or telephone. You may want to look at the monthly chemotherapy threads for support.  Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Grete Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

Hi 1972rach Thanks for posting your question. We hope to be able to respond to you tomorrow. In the meantime our Helpline is open from 9am tomorrow if you would like to talk things through.  If you do phone our Helpline please let us know that you have asked a question on our forum so that we know your query has been answered. Thank you With best wishes. Lisa Ask Our Nurses Co-ordinator Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy ... View more

Hi 242jane Thank you for your post. Like any drug palbociclib can cause side effects. Everyone reacts differently to the drug and some people have more side effects than others. Everyone copes differently and this sometimes means reducing the dose to manage side effects.  Side effects of palbociclib can have a temporary effect on healthy blood cells in your body which can increase your risk of infection, anaemia and other complications. So, it is important to sometimes to reduce the dosage to ensure your safety and tolerance of the drug, whilst still effectively treating your breast cancer. Do talk through with your breast care nurse if you have one or your oncologist to understand the reason for your dosage at present.  You may find it helpful to know that there are other people on palbociclib in a similar situation,  and it sometimes helps to look at what others have posted on the forum about this - these may be found on the secondary breast cancer treatments section of the forum.  We provide a number of different services for people living with secondary breast cancer aimed at providing both information and support. Our helpline team are here for anyone diagnosed with secondary breast cancer. They have time to listen to your concerns, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information. At times like this, some people find it helpful to talk with others who are going through a similar experience.  We have our living with secondary breast cancer online programme, a secondary breast cancer online discussion forum for sharing information and support.  There is also a weekly Live chat session which runs on Tuesdays at 8.30-9.30pm.  All services allow people to talk over their experiences and offer support to each other.  Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Helen Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy ... View more

Hi Hanan Thank you for posting. It sounds as though you are having a difficult time. It is understandable and natural to be worried whether you have breast cancer or a benign (not cancer) condition. We are unable to say if your lump is breast cancer. Most importantly you have reported your breast change are having it checked and undergoing tests to find out what is the cause. The waiting for biopsy results is a difficult time do feel you can call our Helpline to talk this through in more detail or anything else you may be  worrying about.  Your doctor will be able to tell you what the lump is when the biopsy has been looked at under the microscope and a pathology report written. It’s not unusual for cancers to be a similar size to the one you have at 2.8cm. if it is a breast cancer, a specialist team will be able to make recommendations about how best to treat you. The team would discuss and fully explain their findings and what is the best treatment plan with you. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Helen Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more

Hi 242jane Thanks for posting your question. We hope to be able to respond to you tomorrow. In the meantime our Helpline is open from 9am tomorrow if you would like to talk things through.  If you do phone our Helpline please let us know that you have asked a question on our forum so that we know your query has been answered. Thank you With best wishes. Lisa Ask Our Nurses Co-ordinator Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy ... View more

Hi Shirley Thank you for your post. It is understandable that you would to like to know what is causing the symptoms you are experiencing. We are unable to say what may be the cause of your symptoms and whether this could be lymphoedema in the breast. However, it’s important to report any new or unusual symptoms. It’s reassuring to hear you had a mammogram recently and there were no areas of concern, but as you have noticed this breast change since, you can contact your breast care nurse, treatment team or GP to discuss your symptoms and get it checked out. We offer a range of free supportive services that you might be interested in. For more details about these services, please see the information on the link, or call our free Helpline Our services normally include face to face support at a number of locations throughout the country. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve had to take the difficult decision to suspend all our face-to-face services for now. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Helen Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy ... View more

Hi Moira Thanks for your post. It sounds as if you`re having a difficult time with symptoms at the moment, especially as you are finding eating a problem. It’s not possible for us to give you specific advice about your diet and symptom of bloating. However, I wonder if you are in contact with your local palliative and supportive care team. They are experts in helping with difficult symptoms in people with secondary (metastatic) cancer, and some teams have a specialist dietician who can provide tailored advice according to your situation. As well as addressing physical symptoms, palliative and supportive care teams provide support with the emotional, social and spiritual issues that cancer patients can face. Palliative and supportive care teams work in conjunction with your oncology team to manage your care and maintain the best possible quality of life for you. If you are not under their care already you can ask your treatment team or GP to refer you. We provide a number of different services for people living with secondary breast cancer aimed at providing both information and support that you may be interested in Our helpline team are here for anyone diagnosed with secondary breast cancer. They have time to listen to your concerns, talk things through and/or signpost you to more support and/or information. At times like this, some people find it helpful to talk with others who are going through a similar experience.  We have a secondary breast cancer online discussion forum for sharing information and support.  There is also a weekly Live chat session which runs on Tuesdays at 8.30-9.30pm.  Both services allow people to talk over their experiences and offer support to each other. Do call our Helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000 (Text relay prefix 18001). Our 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 Anne Breast Cancer Now Nurse Please read the Ask Our Nurses disclaimer  Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy This thread will now be closed from further replies. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread. ... View more