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.

Clinical trials to test new cancer treatments are going on all the time. Ask your doctor if it would be a good idea to take part in one of these studies.

If treatments have not worked, a time may come when your goal shifts from curing the disease to staying as comfortable as you can. Palliative care can provide symptom relief and support for you and your loved ones so you can make the most of the time you have left.

How can you handle your feelings about having Breast Cancer again?

It is 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. Talk to your hospital social worker if you need help with bills or other worries. Your local American Cancer Society may also be helpful.
• Take good care of yourself. Get plenty of rest. Eat healthy meals. Get regular exercise. Try meditation or guided imagery to help you relax. These steps can help you feel as well and stay as healthy as you can.
• Talk about your feelings. Find a support group. Talking with other people who have Breast Cancer can be a big help. Sharing your experience can help others too.
• Do everything you can to stay positive. Set a goal each day to do something special for yourself or someone else.

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 living will lets doctors know what type of life-support measures you want if your health gets much worse. You can also choose a health care agent to make decisions in case you are not able to. It can be comforting to know that you will get the type of care you want.

Frequently Asked Questions