Skip the primary navigation if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Skip the main content if you do not want to read it as the next section.
The unwanted side effects of treatment vary. They depend upon your tumour, treatment and age. The best way for you to establish the effect treatment will have on you will be to ask your doctor.
The following are some examples of long-term side effects that will affect some people.
Breast changes
Some patients notice a change in the texture, sensitivity or shape of the breast. Skin colour may alter slightly.
In a small number of patients, the breast may feel firmer than the other breast, because of retained fluid. This usually settles down after a few months.
Lymphoedema
This condition may affect you if you have had radiotherapy to your armpit, or if you have had lymph nodes removed during surgery.
If you get it, your arm will swell on the side where you were treated for cancer. This happens because your lymph nodes have been damaged or removed. The nodes are part of the lymphatic system and they normally drain away a body fluid called lymph. If they can't work effectively, fluid may build up and cause problems.
Some patients first notice a swelling when their arm is injured in some way. For others, the swelling is more gradual. It may reach down to the wrist and hand.
Lymphoedema may not occur until months or years after treatment. Taking special care of your hand and arm may help to reduce the risk.
If you are concerned that you are affected by Lymphoedema, please talk to your Breast Care Clinical Nurse Specialist who can refer you to a specialist Lymphoedema Clinic.
Other effects
The following side effects are extremely rare:
- nerve pain, tingling, weakness or numbness in the arm and hand
- breathlessness (caused by lung damage)
- weakened ribs in the area that was treated
