Pain is not inevitable with metastatic breast cancer. However, it may occur and there are a range of options available to treat pain and other symptoms if they arise. You may have long periods of time without any symptoms from the cancer. It is important that you talk to your treating team about any concerns you have. Who will be in my treating team? Just as there will be many different types of treatments and measures offered at different times, several types of clinicians will be involved in your care. These may include a combination of various types of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals. Remember that you are at the centre of your experience. The people on your treating team are here to help you. Doctors Your medical oncologist is usually the coordinator or leader of your care, but you will often be referred to other specialists, such as a radiation oncologist, perhaps a surgeon, pain specialist or palliative care physician, or other specialist doctors for specific issues. Radiologists and pathologists are also involved in assessing test results. Your GP is also an important part of your team — GPs can be very helpful for the everyday health issues you may need help with and coordinating your wider health care needs into the future. Nurses Breast care nurses (BCNs) are registered nurses specially trained to provide information and support to people with breast cancer. They can help you find your way through the health system and can be a regular point of contact for information and support. BCNA’s Helpline (phone 1800 500 258 ) can help you connect to a breast care nurse if you don’t have one.
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Metastatic breast cancer: an introduction
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