First time here large cancerous mass in breast and lymph nodes

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Anndallei3
Anndallei3 Member Posts: 2
in Breast Cancer #1

I am female, 72 years old and was recently informed that I have a large fast growing cancerous mass in my breast and medium mass in my lymph nodes which is spreading. I have to have radiation and/or chemo to shrink the tumors.  They can't do surgery now due to the size, therefore treatment is now first in line. My question is, I have had no side effects or pain (so far) with the cancer other than I can feel how big the tumors are!! Yikes! I was wondering if there are typically, any things (possible effects) I might experience in the interim before I undergo treatment? I'm not sure when they will even start treatment. Could be a week or so. Since iI've never had cancer or don't know what to expect...pain?, memory problems, breathing problems...I know it depends on if it has metastasized to other organs, etc. but if it hasn't are there other symptoms I might expect. Thank you in advance.

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  • Mark_W
    Mark_W Member Posts: 1
    edited April 2021 #2
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    Chin up

    Sounds to me that you're (and you're Docs) are on top of things. 

    I can only say what I've observed from my wife's experience. The cancer (lump) didn't bother her (physically), the treatment(s) on the other hand can make you feel like crap. Hang in there, it's so worth hearing the words "cancer-free", "remission" or any other positive news at the end of treatment.

    Be Well

    MW

  • meadowglade
    meadowglade Member Posts: 39 Member
    edited April 2021 #3
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    I had both chemo and

    I had both chemo and radiation. The main this is to listen to your body and to the doctors. It seems like forever before things get started but once they do it takes off. All the best to you on your road to cancer free! 

     

  • Doberlady
    Doberlady Member Posts: 4 Member
    edited April 2021 #4
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    I was recently diagnosed with

    I was recently diagnosed with brest cancer.

    It takes awhile to get all the baseline diagnostics completed (Echocardiogram, MRI, PET scan, port placement, and any labs).

    But now all of that is done that has taken me 3 weeks to complete. 

    I retrospect I think it was good for me because it gave me the time I needed to adjust to my diagnosis. 

    Now I have completes all the baseline diagnostics and my port will be inserted next week along with my first chemo treatment. 

    My daughter in law works at my chosen cancer center and told me once that port is in place things start happening very fast. 

    So here I set today and by this time next week I will have completed my first chemo infusion. 

    Then only 5 more to go . 

    The other path of no treatment IMO was just not an option. 

    The good news is my new appreciation for everything in my life. 

    I mean like the simple things birds, lizards, people. 

    Hang in there and so will I.....

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