Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Survivorship
Whether you have finished treatment or are managing maintenance therapy, life after a triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) diagnosis is different. Thinking about the survivorship phase may bring unexpected concerns. In any case, staying active in your cancer care and in your health in general, is essential. As your focus shifts to keeping yourself healthy, both physically and emotionally, it helps to have a plan.
A survivorship plan is a comprehensive record of your medical history, diagnosis and treatment plan, including ongoing medications. It is also a schedule of follow-up appointments, which are important for monitoring treatment effectiveness and staying alert to the possible spread of cancer or onset of other health issues.
You are encouraged to ask your health care provider about a survivorship plan. Or, be proactive by downloading a blank survivorship form at PatientResource.com/SurvivorshipPlan
Follow-Up Care
Making and keeping your follow-up appointments is critical because TNBC can recur, even after successful treatment. Ongoing monitoring will be key to catching a possible recurrence.
Stay alert to symptoms and share them with your health care provider. Early detection may improve prognosis. Some symptoms of recurrence can only be identified through lab or imaging tests. When physical tests are not required, ask your health care provider whether telehealth is an option. Though it is not a permanent replacement for in-person visits, it offers a convenient option.
For many people, all cancer-related effects don’t disappear when treatment ends. And recovery from the physical, emotional and mental aspects of cancer may take more time than many survivors and their families expect. Before you resume care with your primary care physician, ask your oncologist to set up a long-term follow-up care plan.
Once you have this plan, be sure to use it. Making and keeping follow-up appointments allows your health care team to keep a close eye on your health, manage any side effects and help you feel your best. These appointments also give you the opportunity to ask questions, share your concerns and get one-on-one assistance from your health care provider and others.
Watch for Late Effects
Late effects may show up months or years after treatment. As with side effects, late effects result from certain types of cancer treatment. Although some late effects may disappear over time, others may be permanent. Some late effects can develop without warning years later. Because they can be so hard to predict, being aware of them and sticking to your appointment schedule is a good course of action. Ask your health care provider about symptoms to watch for because detecting them early makes it easier to manage them more successfully.
Managing any late effects from TNBC may require a holistic approach that focuses on physical wellness (exercise, nutrition, managing lymphedema and fatigue) and mental well-being.
Moving Forward
As you move into survivorship, keep the healthy habits you may have already incorporated into your life. Continuing to lead a smart lifestyle includes a nutritious diet and regular physical activity. A dietitian can help you create a strategy that includes fruits, vegetables and lean meats. Moving your body in general can lead to better physical functioning and an overall better quality of life. Exercise can fight fatigue and improve your mental and emotional well-being. Even 10 minutes of walking can increase your energy level.
Surround yourself with people you can rely on, and access the many types of support available through your cancer center, survivorship clinics, support groups, cancer advocacy organizations and other local or area resources. Survivor phone buddies, peer-to-peer matching and online survivorship support groups and communities are other options to consider.
Dealing with Fear and Uncertainty
After primary treatment ends, you will have to learn how to manage the anxiety that comes with every new ache or pain. TNBC often recurs, and you may be concerned that any pain is a sign that the cancer is back. Be an advocate for your health and share any new symptoms with your health care provider, keeping in mind that your regular appointments won’t be as frequent as before.
Having follow-up exams, laboratory testing and imaging scans may bring up feelings of anxiety, sometimes referred to as “scanxiety.” The feeling is understandable because the results will indicate whether the treatment is working the way it is intended or if the cancer has recurred. Anxiety may begin as the appointment nears and remain until the results are revealed. That is a lot of stress to put on your mind and body. Consider these strategies for managing the stress:
- Set expectations with your health care provider about when and how you will receive the results so you are not left waiting and wondering.
- Recognize and accept that it is normal to feel this way.
- Keep your mind occupied with things you enjoy so you have less time to worry.
- Try to calm your nerves with meditation or deep breathing.
