A diagnosis of breast cancer can be challenging, but many treatments are available and according to the American Cancer Society, the mortality rate from breast cancer has been declining since 1990. Along with higher survival rates, various problems and challenges have developed, but many of these problems are manageable.
Arm Lymphedema
Lymphedema of the arm occurs when the soft tissues in the hand and arm swell from lymph fluid accumulating in the tissues. According to the information website Breastcancer.org, between 5 and 40 percent of women who have breast cancer surgery will experience some kind of lymphedema. Risk factors for developing the condition include having cancer in many lymph nodes; having radiation to the areas where lymph nodes are removed; having a full axillary node dissection in which nodes are removed above, below and underneath the pectoralis minor muscle; and being obese.
Chemically-Induced Menopause
Several chemotherapy drugs used to treat breast cancer can induce chemical menopause due to damage they cause to the ovaries, says the Breast Cancer Resource Directory of North Carolina. Some women resume their normal menstrual cycles after treatment ends, but others do not, and these women may experience more intense menopausal symptoms than if they went through menopause naturally. Symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, difficulty concentrating, vaginal dryness and irritability. A doctor may be able to prescribe medications to help with menopausal symptoms, and remedies like vaginal lubricant are available over the counter. Alternative medications and therapies exist and have shown beneficial effects, but the health care team should be notified of any of these complementary treatments to avoid any adverse interactions.
Pregnancy After Breast Cancer
Women who retained their fertility through breast cancer treatment may decide to have biological children once they are in remission. Pregnancy raises estrogen levels and, because there is an established link between estrogen and the development of breast cancer, many doctors suggest waiting two years post-treatment to conceive, according to the American Cancer Society. This two-year waiting period also allows for immediate diagnosis and treatment if the cancer returns. The American Cancer Society says that almost all of the studies done show no increase in the risk of recurrent breast cancer due to pregnancy, but the organization also suggests talking with a health care team to assess the individual risk of recurrence.
