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8 unusual signs and symptoms of breast cancer recurrence

Watch out for these symptoms.

Written by Debjani Arora | Updated : October 29, 2017 1:31 AM IST

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Symptoms Of Recurrence

When breast cancer is in its initial stages surgery and combination of chemotherapy-radiation is done to treat it. For advance stages chemotherapy and radiation is done to stop the progression of the disease. However, in both cases chances of recurrence is always there and it might not always come back in the breasts (in case it is reserved), it can metastasise and reach a different location. Here are some signs and symptoms, according to Dr Rucha Kaushik, onco-surgeon, PD Hinduja Hospital and medical research centre, Mumbai that indicate a recurrence:

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Low Grade Fever

Low grade fever: Fever is your body’s response to an infection and usually subsides either with treatment or on its own, if your body’s immune cells are able to fight the infection. But if you are a survivor you cannot sleep over it. If the fever refuses to go within one to two days it is better to get checked to know what is causing the problem.

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Pain In Bones

Bone pains: During your recovery period a little bit of lethargy and pain is expected. But if you are experiencing bone pain way after your treatment is over then it is like a red flag. Remember breast cancer metastasis happens usually in the bones and it is still treatable. So, don’t ignore this pain and schedule your appointment with your oncologist ASAP.  Also Read - Is it normal to hear cracking sound from your body during exercise?

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Shortness Of Breath

Shortness of breath: It is one thing to feel tired and stressed if you are having a stressful day, but if you experience shortness of breath while doing just your regular chores like walking a short distance or climbing a couple of stairs, better get checked with your doctor. This could be a sign of cancer spreading to your lungs.

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Unexplained Weight Loss

Loss of weight: Mostly after surviving a cancer you might be asked to control or reduce weight because fat cells in the abdomen can secrete estrogen that can further make you prone to a recurrence. But if you are losing too much weight that seems unnatural tell your doctor about it during your follow ups.

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Headaches

Headaches: This also seems like a sign that you can just brush off but for a survivor nothing can be taken lightly. Recurrent headaches can be a sign that the cancer might take hold in the brain or spine.