Treatments for breast cancer can cause side effects. Your
doctor can tell you what problems to expect and help you find ways to manage
them.
Your doctor may recommend that you join a if one is available in your area. Clinical trials test new cancer treatments and may be the best choice for you.
If treatments don't work, a time may come when the goal
of your treatment shifts from trying to cure your cancer to keeping you as comfortable as possible. This can allow you to make the most of the time you have left.
How can you handle your feelings about having breast cancer again?
It's common to have a wide range of emotions. It may be
hard to stay hopeful when you are fighting cancer for the second or third time.
These ideas may help:
- Get the
support you need. Spend time with people who care about you, and let them help
you.
- Take good care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, and eat nourishing foods.
- Talk about
your feelings. Find a support group where you can share your experience.
- Stay positive. Do things each day that will help you stay calm and relaxed.
If your emotions are too much to handle, be sure to tell
your doctor. You may be able to get counseling or other types of help.
You may want to think about planning for the future. A
lets doctors know what type of
life-support measures you want if your health gets much worse. You can also
choose a
to make decisions in case you aren't able to. If you put your wishes in writing, you can make it easier for your loved ones and others to know what you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about metastatic and recurrent breast cancer: | |
Being diagnosed: | |
Getting treatment: | |
Ongoing concerns: | |
Living with breast cancer: | |
End-of-life issues: | |