Follow-up care for cancer means seeing a health care provider for regular medical checkups once you're finished with treatment. These checkups may include bloodwork, as well as other tests and procedures that look for any changes in your health, or any problems that may occur due to your cancer treatment.
What follow-up care do I need after cancer treatment?
There are different types of follow-up care. You usually have follow-up care at the hospital. This is usually with someone from your cancer team. These appointments may happen every few months in the first year after your treatment. You may be asked to have a blood test or scan before an appointment.
What happens during a cancer follow-up visit?
These visits are also a time to check for physical and emotional problems that may occur months or years after treatment ends. Your follow-up care plan, along with a summary of your cancer treatment, is part of what is called a survivorship care plan.
What is follow-up care and active monitoring for breast cancer?
Your health care team will continue to check that the cancer has not come back, manage any side effects, and monitor your overall health. This is called follow-up care and active monitoring. Your follow-up care may include regular physical examinations, medical tests, or both.
What happens during a cancer checkup?
These checkups may include bloodwork, as well as other tests and procedures that look for any changes in your health, or any problems that may occur due to your cancer treatment. These visits are also a time to check for physical and emotional problems that may develop months or years after treatment ends.
How often should you see your oncologist after treatment?
In general, people return to the doctor for follow-up appointments every 3 to 4 months during the first 2 to 3 years after treatment, and once or twice a year after that. At these visits, you may have a physical exam along with blood tests and other necessary tests and procedures.
What tests are done after chemotherapy?
After treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, your doctor will examine you for any new growths. You'll also get blood tests, X-rays, and other imaging tests. These tests will measure your tumor and see if your treatment has slowed or stopped your cancer.
What happens when cancer treatment is finished?
When treatment ends, you may expect life to return to the way it was before you were diagnosed with cancer. But it can take time to recover. You may have permanent scars on your body, or you may not be able to do some things you once did easily. Or you may even have emotional scars from going through so much.
How long after cancer treatment are you considered cancer free?
Remission can be partial or complete. In a complete remission, all signs and symptoms of cancer have disappeared. If you remain in complete remission for 5 years or more, some doctors may say that you are cured. Still, some cancer cells can remain in your body for many years after treatment.
How often do you get scans after chemo?
In general, people return to the doctor for follow-up appointments every 3 to 4 months during the first 2 to 3 years after treatment, and once or twice a year after that.
How long is immune system compromised after chemo?
Treatment can last for anywhere from 3 to 6 months. During that time, you would be considered to be immunocompromised — not as able to fight infection. After finishing chemotherapy treatment, it can take anywhere from about 21 to 28 days for your immune system to recover.
How often do you have check ups after cancer?
After treatment such as surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy, you are likely to have an appointment with your doctor between 2 and 6 weeks after the treatment has finished. After that you have appointments with your doctor or specialist nurse at regular intervals, usually every 6 to 12 weeks.
Which cancer has highest recurrence rate?
Some cancers are difficult to treat and have high rates of recurrence. Glioblastoma, for example, recurs in nearly all patients, despite treatment. The rate of recurrence among patients with ovarian cancer is also high at 85%....Related Articles.Cancer TypeRecurrence RateGlioblastoma2Nearly 100%18 more rows•Nov 30, 2018
What are the signs of cancer coming back?
Warning signs of a distant recurrence tend to involve a different body part from the original cancer site. For example, if cancer recurs in the lungs, you might experience coughing and difficulty breathing, while a recurrence of cancer in the brain can cause seizures and headaches.
Are you ever cured of cancer?
Treatment. There are no cures for any kinds of cancer, but there are treatments that may cure you. Many people are treated for cancer, live out the rest of their life, and die of other causes. Many others are treated for cancer and still die from it, although treatment may give them more time: even years or decades.
Is there a difference between cancer free and remission?
Remission allows for the possibility that some microscopic, undetectable cancer remains in the body, while cancer-free indicates exactly what it sounds like: the patient is entirely free of cancer.
When will oncologist stop treatment?
If you've undergone three or more chemotherapy treatments for your cancer and the tumors continue to grow or spread, it may be time for you to consider stopping chemotherapy.
Why aren't breast cancer tests included in follow up?
Other tests: Other tests such as blood tests and imaging tests (like bone scans and chest x-rays) are not a standard part of follow-up because they haven’t been shown to help a woman who's been treated for breast cancer live longer.
Why do you need a pelvic exam after breast cancer surgery?
Pelvic exams: If you are taking either of the hormone drugs tamoxifen or toremifene and still have your uterus, you should have pelvic exams every year because these drugs can increase your risk of uterine cancer.
How long does breast cancer treatment last?
Almost any cancer treatment can have side effects. Some might only last for a few days or weeks, but others might last a long time.
What happens if cancer comes back?
If cancer does return, your treatment options will depend on where it comes back, what treatments you've had before, and your current health and preferences. For more information on how recurrent cancer is treated, see Treatment of Recurrent Breast Cancer .
How long after cancer treatment do side effects show?
Some side effects might not even show up until years after you have finished treatment. Visits with your doctor are a good time for you to ask questions and talk about any changes or problems you notice or concerns you have. However, if you have additional concerns about your cancer, you do not have to wait until your next scheduled visit.
What does a doctor look for in a woman with cancer?
If the cancer recurrence is confirmed, your doctor may also look for circulating tumor cells in the blood, or measure levels of blood tumor markers such as CA-15-3, CA 27-29, or CEA. The blood levels of tumor markers go up in some women if their cancer recurs or has spread to other parts of the body.
Do you need a lab after breast cancer treatment?
During these visits, your doctors will ask if you are having any problems, and will probably examine you. Lab tests and imaging tests aren't typically needed after treatment ...
Keep your health insurance
You already know that having cancer costs a lot of money. You also might have had to change your work schedule or job status because of the side effects of certain treatments. Your partner may have had to take time off work to help you. These changes affect your finances.
Keep your follow-up visits with your cancer care team
While there’s no guarantee that seeing your cancer care team regularly will keep the cancer from coming back, it will help find any recurrence as early as possible. The earlier cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.
Get the tests your cancer care team suggests
You’ll need to have tests (like blood tests and imaging tests) done as part of your follow-up after cancer treatment. These will help your cancer care team be sure that you stay in remission (which means you have no signs of cancer). The tests will also help find cancer that’s come back or even a new cancer as soon as possible.
What is a follow up appointment after cancer treatment?
Follow-up appointment after cancer treatment. After your main treatment ends, you usually still see your cancer team for regular check-ups. This is called follow-up care. How often you see them depends on different things, including: the type and stage of the cancer. the treatment you have had.
What is the purpose of a follow up appointment for cancer?
The aim of this cancer follow-up appointment is to make sure everything is going well for you. It is also a chance for you to talk about any concerns you may have . The appointment helps your cancer doctor or nurse notice any possible problems early. They may examine you and do some simple tests, such as taking a blood sample. They will usually ask questions about your recovery and any side effects or symptoms you have.
How does a cancer nurse help you?
They are usually run by specialist cancer nurses. They can help you avoid long journeys to hospital and waits in hospital clinics . Having fewer hospital visits may also help you feel less anxious. You may have regular telephone appointments with your cancer nurse.
What to do if you have not seen your GP?
Your GP and practise nurse can offer support during and after treatment. If you have not seen them during treatment, it is a good idea to make an appointment when it finishes. Your cancer team will send them a report ( treatment summary) about your treatment.
What can a cancer team refer you to?
Your cancer team can refer you to other services if you need specialist help. For example, they may refer you to a psychologist or counsellor for emotional help, or a physiotherapist for advice about exercising.
How often do you have follow up care for cancer?
You usually have follow-up care at the hospital. This is usually with someone from your cancer team. These appointments may happen every few months in the first year after your treatment. You may be asked to have a blood test or scan before an appointment.
What is a nurse's follow up care called?
You will still have any regular tests or scans you may need. This type of follow-up care is sometimes called supported self-management. Your nurse will help you manage your health. They will provide information on: side effects.
Why is follow up care important for breast cancer?
One goal of follow-up care is to check for a recurrence, which means that the cancer has come back. Treatment for early stage or locally advanced breast cancer is given to eradicate as many cancer cells in the body as possible. However, cancer recurs because small areas of cancer cells that don't respond to treatment may remain undetected in ...
Why is follow up care important?
Doctors want to keep track of your recovery in the months and years ahead. Follow-up care is also important for screening for other types of cancer. In some instances, patients may be able to visit a survivorship clinic that specializes in the post-treatment needs of people diagnosed with breast cancer.
How do you know if you have breast cancer?
Breast cancer can come back in the breast or other areas of the body. Generally, a recurrence is found when a person has symptoms or an abnormal finding during a physical examination. Annual mammograms are also recommended after a diagnosis of breast cancer. The symptoms depend on where the cancer has recurred and may include: 1 A lump under the arm or along the chest wall 2 Pain that is constant, worsening, and not relieved by over-the-counter medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) 3 Bone, back, neck, or joint pain, fractures, or swelling, which are possible signs of bone metastases 4 Headaches, seizures, dizziness, confusion, personality changes, loss of balance, nausea, vomiting, or changes in vision, which are possible signs of brain metastases 5 Chronic coughing, shortness of breath, or trouble breathing, which are possible symptoms of lung metastases 6 Abdominal pain, itchy skin or rash, or yellow skin and eyes from a condition called jaundice, which may be associated with liver metastases 7 Changes in energy levels, such as feeling ill or extremely tired 8 Having a low appetite and/or weight loss 9 Nausea or vomiting 10 Rash or skin changes on the breast or chest wall 11 Changes in the shape or size of the breast, or swelling in the breast or arm
What is a recurrence of breast cancer?
Generally, a recurrence is found when a person has symptoms or an abnormal finding during a physical examination. Annual mammograms are also recommended after a diagnosis of breast cancer. The symptoms depend on where the cancer has recurred and may include: A lump under the arm or along the chest wall.
What happens after a lumpectomy?
After a mastectomy or lumpectomy to treat early-stage or locally advanced breast cancer, the breast may be scarred and may have a different shape or size than before surgery. Or, the area around the surgical site may become hardened.
What is the goal of cancer rehabilitation?
The goal of rehabilitation is to help people regain control over many aspects of their lives and remain as independent and productive as possible. Learn more about cancer rehabilitation. Learn more about the importance of follow-up care.
How long does it take for a person to feel a swollen chest after radiation?
This is a life-long risk for survivors. Long-term effects of radiation therapy. Some survivors experience breathlessness, a dry cough, and/or chest pain 2 to 3 months after finishing radiation therapy. That is because radiation therapy can cause swelling and a hardening or thickening of the lungs called fibrosis.
What to do after breast cancer treatment?
Once your breast cancer treatment has ended, you’ll need to keep in touch with your cancer doctor and surgeon. Schedule regular appointments with them. Between medical visits, watch for any changes in your body.
How long after breast cancer treatment do you need a mammogram?
If you had a total mastectomy, you only need one of the other breast. You’ll likely need a mammogram within 6 12 months after finishing your breast cancer treatment and at least annually after that. Routine chest X-rays and blood tests in women who have no symptoms of cancer aren’t always reliable.
What conditions can a doctor check for?
Conditions your doctor may want to check for include: Bone density (certain cancer drugs and menopause can weaken your bones) Diabetes. High blood pressure. Heart disease. Weight gain or obesity. Make taking care of your emotional and physical well-being a priority in life.
How often should I see a doctor for a syphilis?
Typically, you should see your doctors every 3 months for the first 2 years after treatment ends, every 6 months during years 3 through 5, and then annually for the rest of your life. Your personal schedule will depend on your diagnosis.
Do you need a blood test if you have cancer?
Routine chest X-rays and blood tests in women who have no symptoms of cancer aren’t always reliable. If you had chemotherapy, you’ll need regular blood tests to make sure that your body has recovered from it.
Do you need a Pap smear if you have a uterus?
If you take it and still have your uterus, you need an annual Pap smear, regardless of age. If you are postmenopausal, if you are taking a medicine called an aromatase inhibitor, or if you've had chemotherapy in the past, get regular screening tests for osteoporosis.
How to keep track of cancer treatment?
Keeping personal health records. You and your doctor should work together to develop a personalized follow-up care plan. Be sure to discuss any concerns you have about your future physical or emotional health. ASCO offers forms to help keep track of the cancer treatment you received and develop a survivorship care plan when treatment is completed. ...
What is the follow up for bladder cancer?
For people treated for bladder cancer, follow-up care typically includes a general physical examination, cystoscopy (if the bladder has not been removed), urine cytology, type of x-rays, and routine blood and urine tests to make sure the bladder is working well and to check for any signs that the cancer has come back.
What is ASCO for cancer?
ASCO offers forms to help keep track of the cancer treatment you received and develop a survivorship care plan when treatment is completed. This is also a good time to talk with your doctor about who will lead your follow-up care. Some survivors continue to see their oncologist or urologist, while others transition back to the care ...
Why do we need follow up care?
One goal of follow-up care is to check for a recurrence, which means that the cancer has come back. Cancer recurs because small areas of cancer cells may remain undetected in the body. Over time, these cells may increase in number until they show up on test results or cause signs or symptoms. During follow-up care, a doctor familiar with your medical history can give you personalized information about your risk of recurrence.
What is the term for a doctor who monitors your health after cancer treatment?
This is called follow-up care and active monitoring. Your follow-up care may include regular physical examinations, medical tests, or both. Doctors want to keep track of your recovery in ...
What is the goal of cancer rehabilitation?
The goal of rehabilitation is to help people regain control over many aspects of their lives and remain as independent and productive as possible. Learn more about cancer rehabilitation. Learn more about the importance of follow-up care.
Can cancer cause late effects?
Other side effects called late effects may develop months or even years afterwards. Long-term and late effects can include both physical and emotional changes. Talk with your doctor about your risk of developing such side effects based on the type of cancer, your individual treatment plan, and your overall health.
How to improve quality of life after cancer?
But doing things that you love, to the extent that you’re able to, is rewarding. Focusing on ways to feel happy and hopeful can improve your quality of life while you treat the disease. Line Up Practical and Personal Help. Medical experts shouldn’t be the only members of your cancer support team.
What are the treatments for cancer?
Your doctor will base their recommendations on the type of cancer, its stage, and your age and overall health. Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or stem cell transplants are some of the broad categories.
How to help someone with cancer?
It includes managing stress, which can help improve appetite, ease insomnia, and fight fatigue during cancer treatment. Take time for your favorite activities, like reading, meditation, yoga, walking, writing in a journal, or listening to music.
How to learn about cancer?
Check the health records online or follow up so you can write it all down. Then use information from your doctor, and reputable online resources, to learn about your cancer. Knowledge truly is power. It helps you feel better prepared to understand the way forward with the disease.
What do you feel when you find out you have cancer?
When you find out that you have cancer, it’s a lot to take in. You may feel a flood of emotions, such as disbelief, fear, and anger. And your first questions for the doctor might be, “How bad is it?” and “What are my options?”
What is palliative care study?
These studies test new medications, devices, or procedures. They can be a way to try new cancer treatments before they’re widely available. As with any other treatment, make sure you know what’s involved, so you can decide what’s right for you. Understand Palliative Care.
