Once the tumor or ‘necrosis’ is removed, it is tested to see if all of the cancer is dead or whether there are live cells still floating around.  Even if your tumour has reduced to feeling as though there is nothing there, there is a chance that the centre or elsewhere still contains live cancer cells.  That was the case with me. ... View more

I’m in a similar boat! I finished chemo at the end of July and have hot flushes (Im 44 and chemo put me i to early menopause) mainly at night or when I get a little stressed.  I asked my oncologist who advised the only thing that has been proven to help is an antidepressant.   ... View more

Hi Debru,   I can only assume it's because something had changed since they did the initial markings, or perhaps they didn't get all of them done at the first instance.  The only real way of knowing would be to ask them in your next session.     All the best Budgie ... View more

Hi Debbru,   Getting a hot or warm scalp is a very general symptom and could apply to many conditions.   For example:   Warmth can be an indication of a rash or infection. It could be contact dermatitis if you’re allergic or being irritated by something you’re using. E.g. creams, cleansers, soap, shampoos or conditioners. (Try something fragrance and sulfates free). The scalp tends to get sore, hot or irritated before hair loss after chemotherapy. Due to inflammation. Depending on age it could be an symptom of menopause Hormonal changes in general Side effects of medications   I believe going to your treating doctor or a dermatologist probably would be for the best, due the long list of possibilities - especially if you’re in discomfort.   But for now I suppose you should avoid direct sunlight exposure to the affect area, try not to wear anything too warm or wooly on the head, use a cold compress – try peppermint oil or aloe vera as they act as natural cooling agent, wash your hair regularly to avoid dirt or oil accumulations. ... View more

Greetings,   I might be a little late for site recommendations but hopeful something here will prove somewhat useful in the future.   https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=ug3388 – My Health Alberta – Speaks about daily activities, diet, medicines, incision care and signs to look out for.   Here is a sample of the site that you might find interesting:   “Women should wear a well-fitted and supportive bra, even during the night, for 1 week. You will probably be able to go back to work or your normal routine in 1 to 3 weeks after the surgery. This may depend on whether you have more treatment”   “When you find out that you have cancer, you may feel many emotions and may need some help coping. Seek out family, friends, and counsellors for support. You also can do things at home to make yourself feel better while you go through treatment. Call the Canadian Cancer Society (1-888-939-3333) or visit its website at www.cancer.ca for more information.”   https://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/lumpectomy/expectations - Breast Cancer - Speaks about before, after and warning sites but it shorter detail.   Here is a sample of the site:   Weeks and months after lumpectomy   “As nerves regrow, you may feel a weird crawly sensation, you may itch, and you may be very sensitive to touch. Your discomfort may go away by itself, or it may persist but you adapt to it. Acetaminophen or NSAIDs (pronounced EN-seds) such as ibuprofen usually can address the pain related to this type of nerve injury. Opioids (pronounced OH-pee-oydz) also can be used to treat this type of pain.   https://www.emedicinehealth.com/lumpectomy/article_em.htm#when_should_someone_seek_medical_care_after_a_lumpectomy – Emedicine health – Gives more information regarding warning signs and before/after care as well.   Sample of site and warning signs:   Women who notice any of the following signs or symptoms following a lumpectomy should call their doctor for medical care: Signs of infection-swelling, redness, tenderness Increasing pain Excessive bleeding or discharge of fluid Chest pain or shortness of breath Vomiting or nausea Signs of infection or fluid buildup in the underarm   ... View more

Hi,   I had to ask a friend according to their experience for this one but everyone is different. She experienced the following:   * 1 week of slight numbness * Pain started to kick in within 2 weeks, due to damaged nerves healing. * Pain still consisted somewhat after the 3rd week   "For 1 or 2 days after the surgery you will probably feel tired and have some pain. The skin around the cut (incision) may feel firm, swollen, and tender, and be bruised. Tenderness should go away in about 2 or 3 days, and the bruising within 2 weeks. Firmness and swelling may last for 3 to 6 months." According to My health - Alberta ... View more

Hi debbru, Being male, I didn't worry at all about my hair thinning during my treatment - I actually embrased it. it was Cysplatin in particular that caused my hair to thin out and made my tinittus significantly worse. I am led to believe that it is not the Herceptin that causes hair loss, but the other cytotoxis used in the treatment. So I would have thought that hair should be able to grow back if you are ONLY on Herceptin. But I am only guessing. If this concerns you, ask your oncologist or GP. How do you go in a hat or beret? Best wishes, Rick ... View more

Hi debbru,   Let your doc know about the rash.  Make sure to moisturise your skin & wear sun protection. Here is a link to a web site that gives alot of info on Herceptin.  It might be useful to you. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-in-general/treatment/cancer-drugs/drugs/trastuzumab   Budgie  ... View more

Hi Debrru,   If you are really worried about it, or any other medical condition, speak with your oncologist or GP. It really isn't worth the anxiety to "sit on it" for more than a day or so.   Now a quick search on the 'net for side effects of Herceptin indicates that it is more likely to give you a stuffy nose than a runny nose. But as all my doctors keep telling me, "everyone reacts differently".   As far as treatment, I would go for a box of tissues and, only because I'm not on any medication at the moment, a few doses of OP rum (or equivalent) - gargled - at least 4 times a day.   Speak with your doctor!!!   Best wishes, Rick ... View more

Hi debbru, From what I've read, Herceptin itself doesn't cause hair loss.  Are you on that in combination with something else?    I've also read it has a long half life, so if it is causing your hair loss, it might take a while to come back.   Budgie ... View more