Scans

Hi Ali

I started off having checks every 3 months once I'd finished all my treatment and eventually it went to every six months. I did have blood tests but only because my white blood count was low for a while after treatment. I did have a few ultrasound scans but that was only because I had slight discomfort and it was to make me feel better. It seems that we only gets scans if we have symptoms - it's a case of get on with your life - hard I know - and go back if you have any symptoms! I know exactly how you feel worrying about the what ifs. My theory behind it all is if I feel good, can exercise, work, do all the things I normally do then I'm most likely fine. Life is different after breast cancer - we lose trust in our bodies and we have to learn to find that trust again - it happens with time.

Ruby 

I'm good thanks Ali - had my second reconstruction 5 weeks ago and feeling pretty much back to normal. Got my 6 month check up next week.

Hugs

xxx

My other dr didn't do TM's or scans unless sypmtoms are present.  I have another dr now who does TM's and wants to scan yearly...I'm happy about that

Ali, have you seen a PT to check you for lymphedema? Mine (now under control) started in the trunk.

Also, can you get the tumor markers done privately somewhere? I know the UK and Greece are vastly different, but here there are private blood testing labs all over the place. You just walk in and tell them what you want tested and they do it, for a fee naturally. My doc does 3 tumor markers and the tests are expensivish, but not prohibitive (although that is a matter of perspective, of course).

Ali, good to hear that it will be checked out. Docs tend to be very laid back and even dismissive about it, but it is real, and the sooner you nip it in the bud the better (if that is what it is).