What is the follow-up after a breast cancer is removed?
After you have treatment for breast cancer, it is very
important to discuss any new symptoms or problems with your
healthcare provider. Prevention or early detection of the
recurrence of cancer should be a joint effort by both you
and your provider. This should continue throughout your
lifetime.
What happens during follow-up exams?
You will see your healthcare provider (usually your
oncologist) about every 3 months for the first year after
breast cancer surgery. At each follow-up visit your
provider will check for return of the cancer or spread of
the cancer to other parts of your body. You will have a
physical exam and lab tests. Mammograms and other X-ray
exams may be done on a regular basis, but they will not be
done at every visit. If a lump is found, it will be checked
very carefully. You may have a biopsy.
After the first year, depending on how you are doing, your
visits will probably be less frequent.
How can I take care of myself?
Be sure to eat a healthy diet, quit smoking if you are a
smoker, and follow an exercise program recommended by your
healthcare provider.
Breast self-exams and yearly mammograms are an important
part of your continued good health. Your yearly mammogram
is even more important after you have been treated for
breast cancer.
Between visits with your healthcare provider, watch for
the following signs that the cancer may have come back:
- changes you feel in a breast or in your scar during your
breast self-exam, especially thickenings, lumps, redness,
pain, or swelling
- long-lasting pain in the shoulder, breast, hip, lower
back, pelvis, or legs
- loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss or gain
- digestive trouble such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or
heartburn that lasts for several days
- long-lasting dizziness, blurred vision, severe and
frequent headaches, or trouble walking
- long-lasting cough or hoarseness.
None of these symptoms is a clear sign that the cancer has
come back. It is important, though, to report any of these
changes to your provider as soon as possible. Do not wait
until your next scheduled checkup.
There are many support groups for women who have had breast
cancer. These groups can help with emotional concerns and
questions after surgery and with practical things such as
finding comfortable bras and bathing suits. Ask your
healthcare provider for information about the group nearest you.
For more information on cancer, contact:
Developed by Phyllis G. Cooper, RN, MN, and McKesson Corporation
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
Copyright © 2007 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved.
