Advanced Breast Cancer
Cancer Spread to other parts of the Body
Overview
In advanced breast cancer, the size of the tumor is bigger and the cancer cells spread to the lymph nodes. It also affects other organs such as the lungs, liver, bones, and even the brain. This can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
Symptoms
The symptoms of advanced breast cancer are:
Swelling in Lymph Nodes
Loss of Appetite
Body Pain
Severe Headaches
Weight Loss
Cough
Causes
Breast cancer can be caused due to:
- Early Menstruation
- Giving Birth at Older Age
- Family History
- Radiation Exposure
- Excessive Drinking
Diagnosis
Other than the regular physical checkup a doctor may advise one or more than of the following tests to determine the best treatment. Tests can include:
Mammogram
Ultrasound
Biopsy
When to See a Doctor
Make an appointment right away if any worrisome symptoms appear.
Treatment
Advanced Breast Cancer’s treatment involves both Chemotherapy and Modified Radical Mastectomy. Chemotherapy is done to shrink the size of the tumor before the surgery can be performed. It helps in killing the cancer cells and prevents them from spreading any further.
If the cancer cells continue to grow, your surgeon will then perform Modified Radical Mastectomy which involves removing the entire breast along with the affected lymph nodes under the arm.
Risks, Complications & Preventions
Breast cancer survivors usually experience hair loss, nausea, fatigue, and stress after chemotherapy and surgery. By engaging in healthy activities like light exercising, yoga, spending time with friends, and seeking help from a counselor, the patients may get back to their normal life very soon.
Book an Appointment
Dr. Faisal Murad
Chief of Surgery & Laparoscopic Surgery
M.B.B.S., MCPS, FCPS (Surgery), Fellowship Telemedicine
Dr. Mustafa Javed
Orthopedic Surgery
BSc, MBBS, MRCS (Edinburgh, UK), FRCS, Trauma & Orthopedics (Edinburgh, UK), CCT (Yorkshire, UK)
