I just had my 1st mammo & 3 month checkups after finishing major treatment (no cancer!!)...my onc also did not mention followup tests...what I heard is that they will only scan you if a NEW problem arises, such as a persistent headache, new pains or lumps/bumps...think about it, if you got a scan every time you have an ache or pain, you'd probably be getting scanned every week, and I had enough of them during my treatment!...I do worry about recurrence on occasion, unfortunately, it is the nature of the "beast"...so I asked my onc what should I be looking for...she said any persistent headaches, back or hip pain, loss of appetite or weight (definitely not a problem w/ me LOL), newly felt lumps, etc, etc.....I finally calmed down and take an Advil for any pains, headaches, etc....if it goes away, I figure it probably ain't cancer...and I faithfully do breast self-exams weekly (that's how I found my cancer)...I think you just have to listen to your body, and if anything gives you concern, let them know...I know some people get PET scans that can show up cancer anywhere in their body, but my insurance wouldn't pay for that test...I just listen closely to my body, pray to God, and go from there...
decided I was not going to live in fear all the time...that's no life at all!
hang in there, tiger
1
Responses