A metastatic cancer diagnosis can be a difficult time for self and loved ones, with more questions than answers. What is it? Can it be avoided? Is it dangerous? These are all good questions, and we aim to shine some light on some of the most pressing concerns for metastatic breast cancer.
Metastatic breast cancer, otherwise known as stage 4 breast cancer, is a potentially fatal form of the sickness. The cancer becomes known as metastatic once it spreads beyond the breast. Despite this grim pronouncement, there is still hope with the correct treatment [1]. Here is some additional information to get started on treatment, potential symptoms, and what to do in case of a diagnosis.
Where Can Breast Cancer Spread?
While early stage breast cancer is relatively manageable with a high survival rate, upon later stages it can spread to the liver, bones, brain and lungs. [2]
What are the Symptoms?
While the symptoms generally start off mild, they can develop so it it recommended to schedule regular checkups for any signs of breast cancer.
Extreme Fatigue
Fatigue is common in most metastatic forms of cancer. Even sleeping for hours on end can leave people feeling drained, making it difficult to complete even the most basic daily tasks.
Unintentional Weight Loss
Appetite loss is another common issue. If left unattended, weight loss can degenerate into other concerns such as muscle deterioration.
Depression
On top of physical challenges, a cancer diagnosis can be a mental strain as well. If feeling overwhelmed, seek the help of a mental health professional.
Liver Metastases (Malignant Growths)
One of the most common progressions of metastatic breast cancer is towards the liver, leading to abdominal pains and the urge to vomit. The skin may also turn to a shade of yellow as liver functions decrease.
Bone Metastases
For many people, the diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer comes after they have experienced a fracture.[3] The sickness can weaken bones and make them brittle.
In many cases, a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis only comes once they’ve already been experiencing bone pain. [3] While this is unfortunate, the good news is it sometimes help catch the development before it is too late.
Brain Metastases
While brain development is the least common from breast cancer, it can be the most dangerous. Linked issues are seizures, dizziness and headaches.
Lung Metastases
Breast cancer can slowly spread to the lungs over many years. It will start with minor symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath, but the symptoms will become more pronounced over time.
Over years, breast cancer can spread to the lungs. The symptoms may start small such a a cough or shortness of breath, but be careful about becoming bigger over time.
How To Treat Metastatic Breast Cancer?
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a popular treatment for breast cancer throughout all its stages. While it is the most effective, it also takes a heavy tool on the body. The process for killing cancer in chemotherapy also damages healthy parts of the body. [4]
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy makes us of specific chemicals to attack cancer growth without affecting healthy cells. While ithe risks include blood clotting and high blood pressure, some people prefer this more strategic approach.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is generally used when metastatic cancer has spread to larger parts of the body. It is vital to try to stay in good health because radiation therapy attacks both healthy and sick cells in the body. Doctors will generally make sure one is consuming enough calories before proceeding. [5]
Surgery
Surgery is the oldest method of cancer treatment.[6] Doctors can remove cancerous tumors from the body with delicate surgeries. Infection and pain are biggest risk with this tried and tested method.
Conclusion
While a diagnosis is certainly unwelcome news, there is still a full chance of recovery. By exploring all possible outcomes and working with trusted professionals, the odds of success can increase dramatically.
Sources
[1]https://www.healthline.com/health/breast-cancer/survival-facts-statistics#1
[2]https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/understanding-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis/breast-cancer-survival-rates.html
[3]https://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/recur_metast/metastic/bone
[4]https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/chemotherapy-for-breast-cancer/about/pac-20384931
[5]https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/breast-cancer-treatment#1
[6]https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-basics/history-of-cancer/cancer-treatment-surgery.html
