Forum Discussion
Scans after Treatment
Just wondering if others have been offered Scans after finishing treatment. I thought I would have them on a yearly basis to check on things...but after speaking to my medical and radiation oncologists..they said NO!....mentioning that I need to stay vigilant and report any ongoing symptoms. Not even a blood test! This doesn't seem very proactive treatment to me. Would appreciate your input. Chris.
36 Replies
I am currently taking 8 fish oil per day and 2 glucosamine with chondroit, are you on any of these? My side effects from Femara were extreme, but I had a 70% improvement within a couple of weeks of taking these supplements.
Dr Google says that either/both could cause high ALP levels, as well as the fatty food.
I know it wasn't fatty food as my diet is very strict with mainly salad and vegies. The night prior to test I had zucchini pasta- no fats, with a side salad.
My Onco isn't into supplements at all, so I hope he doesn't get gruff with me for taking these. Another Onco I saw said I could take these If I wanted, but didn't talk dosage, and my blood levels were fine then.
You are a big help on this site and offer grounded advice and experience.
Viv xxxx
Trying not to worry about it,. Dr Google says it could be Femara, glucosamine, fish oil, they all come up.
I am seeing my Oncologist Thursday next week, he will most likely have an answer.
Thank you Tonya
Take care
Viv xx
- I too have raised ALP.(Alkaline Phosphatase).It is an enzyme in the blood which is concentrated in the liver.If it's elevated it can mean a lot of things eg. Some medications (Tamoxifen big time!)cause it,fatty liver and other liver diseases,other diseases and even a very fatty meal.If elevated,it is usually repeated and you should fast 10 hrs prior.My GP ordered me an abdominal ultrasound and it showed I have a fatty liver- possibly from being on Tamoxifen for 4 years. I'm about to have the blood test repeated. Tonya xx
Hi Ladies, my GP called me in today as my Alkaline Phospatase reading has gone from 95 to 148 in 6 months. Normal range is 30-115.
GP didn't say too much, especially as I have Oncologist appointment next week, so will have to wait until then I suppose.
Has anyone else had this?
As far as my Iodine level goes I am in the moderate deficient zone.
Viv
- A full blood count just refers to haemaglobin, white cells and platelets.Bio or tumour markers are a good idea to check but aren't always accurate.Liver function blood test is important to do if you are on Tamoxifen.Also have a pelvic ultrasound if on this drug too.I just ask my gp to order these yearly for me.It seems many oncologists are reluctant to order these routine tests.Mine told me it just causes anxiety!I'd rather be proactive and pick things up early. Tonya xx
Thanks Robyn. I will ask about having these bio markers meausured next time I have a check-up with my GP.
- By full blood count I mean just the usual blood test that a GP would give you,but also testing for bio markers CEA, CA 15.3 and Cancer Antigen 125.This is what my GP said was a good idea.Cheers xoxRobyn
I have the same tests as the other ladies have mentioned above, blood tests every 6 months now, and yearly mammogram, ultrasound and chest XRay. I ask for a copy of all of my tests, this way I can keep an eye on them as ask questions if there is any change.
I have a copy go to my GP, go and see her before my Onco visit.
Had I been proactive like this prior to diagnosis and got copies I would have had my cancer picked up earlier. A mammogram 6 months prior gave me the all clear, but the actual letter said breast tissue too dense to give accurate result, breast full of cysts etc. Had I had a diagnostic mammogram and not the regular mammogram it would have been picked up then. All a very wrong.
Do what makes you feel settled.
One thing I have learnt is to take charge, it is your body and your health and your choice.
Candice
I have the same tests as the other ladies have mentioned above, blood tests every 6 months now, and yearly mammogram, ultrasound and chest XRay. I ask for a copy of all of my tests, this way I can keep an eye on them as ask questions if there is any change.
I have a copy go to my GP, go and see her before my Onco visit.
Had I been proactive like this prior to diagnosis and got copies I would have had my cancer picked up earlier. A mammogram 6 months prior gave me the all clear, but the actual letter said breast tissue too dense to give accurate result, breast full of cysts etc. Had I had a diagnostic mammogram and not the regular mammogram it would have been picked up then. All a very wrong.
Do what makes you feel settled.
One thing I have learnt is to take charge, it is your body and your health and your choice.
Candice
- Thanks everyone for your info. I too will go through my G.P. and request a blood test ...just to put my mind at rest...and of course stay vigilant as well. Wouldn't it be nice though to have some sort of test available at a yearly interval to alleviate any fears we may have...(maybe in the future). I am trying to stay positive and not worry about something that may never happen...it is hard at times though. I will count my blessings..I have great support and a wonderful life to look forward to. Best Wishes to everyone. Chris.xx
