recurrence, how to manage the late side effects of your treatment, and a list of other specialists you might need to see while being monitored.
While a survivorship care plan doesn’t replace your medical record, it’s a great summary of what you’ve gone through. It can provide you or another caregiver with essential information regarding your health. If this sounds like something you’d like, talk to your doctor as soon as possible so they can put one together.
RELATED: 3 Ways To Fight Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in the Kitchen
Should You Be Concerned About Recurrence?
Thanks to advances in medical care, the chances of recurrence from triple-negative breast cancer have gone down significantly. However, statistics still show that Black women had an overall 4% higher risk for recurrence than other ethnicities.
When researchers accounted for other factors and compared outcomes to white women, in particular, there was a 39% difference in their likelihood to experience recurrence.
The numbers may seem daunting but the good news is that you can help your doctor catch your symptoms early.
It’s important to tell your doctor if you’ve found any new lumps in remaining breast tissue, signs of skin inflammation, or signs of thickening near a mastectomy scar.
If you experience swelling under your arm or in your neck, chest pain, severe headaches, or weight loss, let your doctor know. These signs could all mean that your cancer has returned to the same area or spread to another part of the body.
Tips For Taking Care Of Yourself During The Monitoring Period
Many women report dealing with high levels of anxiety during their monitoring period so it’s a good idea to have a plan to address it. It can be helpful to have a support system in place where you can share your concerns and get advice.
Additionally, some people tout the benefits of making time for themselves to meditate or participate in some other relaxing activity.
Finally, finding an exercise routine that works for you will be key.
Follow-up care for triple-negative breast cancer can be a lot for people to handle when they don’t know what’s coming. If you maintain steady communication with your doctor and take care of yourself, however, you’ll have everything covered.