Information on first year tests

[RuthJ]

Hi

Everyone just wanting some info on what happens on first year check ups. I have oncologist tonight ( been trying not to think about it ) then surgeon in 2 1/2 weeks. Just wondering if someone could give some insight. I had to have bloods taken 10 days ago for the oncologist tonight.

[Lainey66]

Hi, I had my first year check up last week. Bloods are taken before hand to keep an eye on the cell count, to make sure it hasnt spiked indicating cancer. The consultant looks at scar site, checks for any lumps in area and arm pits. You will be asked about your general health and any aches and pains. If you are experiencing anything you must tell them. I reported my headaches so will be sent for a brain scan. It is generally a very positive experience. Then off you go to book your appointment for the next 12 months. You will always be asked to go for bloods a week or so before each review appointment. All the best. And here is to another year xxxxx

[RuthJ in reply to Lainey66]

Thanks so much Lainey. I am a bit worried as o have terrible joint pain arms hands and legs my mum had osteoporosis, one of my knees keeps giving way waiting on an X-ray from GP. But like you horrendous head aches some time lasting up to a week. Just want it all over and the results back. I have never had patience and I think we need to embrace patience with this diagnosis but it drives me nuts 😂. Here’s hoping all will be fine and good luck with your scan x

[Lainey66 in reply to RuthJ]

Yes it is all a waiting game. Are you on any meds? I am taking aromasin albeit I am triple negative. I get a huge amount of joint pain in hands, wrists, knees, ankles and feet and can both empathise and sympathise with you. My headaches are sharp pains in my head. I have taken up hobbies that keep me busy and focussed. It helps hugely. Good luck and I am sure all will br grand xxx

[RuthJ in reply to Lainey66]

I started on tamoxifen was premenopausal it was horrendous didn’t know where my head was and what I was doing felt like the worst pmt constantly. So in April had to have my ovaries(had pcos) removed now on anastrazole my head is ok but the bone pain is horrible. I am still working but walk every morning and evening try to hit 11,000 steps every day at least. I take paracetamol when I have to but don’t want to get dependent on it as I can imagine it only gets worse and I can’t take ibuprofen co codamol or naproxen so I think the next one is tramadol and I don’t want to be living in that as it’s not living. I also take 4 adcal daily. Also folic acid as my body doesn’t store it after gallbladder removal years ago😂 I have decided to leave my body for medical research they will be kept busy for months. X

[carolinenailsea in reply to RuthJ]

I love your final comment about medical research. Good luck to you. Caroline

[RuthJ]

Oh I have to ask are you Irish?

[RuthJ]

Just an update the appointment with oncology radio therapist was easy just a quick check over asked how I was feeling. No roll on the 3rd October for that first mammogram since. Of course in between I got my smear test reminder had it done on Friday now waiting on that more stress I’ve previously had pre cancerous cells there too and had them removed so everything crossed.