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How much time does it takes to treat breast tumors?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My last scan showed the spots in my liver have grown despite being on Palbociclib and Letrozole for 14 months. My back pain has gotten worse too, especially at night. The original breast tumor was ER+/PR+, HER2-. My mother died of breast cancer at 48, and I am 45 with two teenagers. I have read about different options online- what is our next step? How much time do these new treatments usually take?

Please suggest.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I am sorry to hear about your situation; that sounds incredibly tough. Given the progression of your liver spots and worsening back pain, it is crucial to discuss this with your oncologist. They may suggest a few options depending on your specific case, including:

1. Chemotherapy: Some medicines will be either infused or given orally to kill fast-growing cancer cells. Its side effects can be fatigue, nausea, and hair loss.

2. Switching or adding treatments: Your oncologist might consider alternative hormone therapies or targeted therapies.

Treatment that best suits you depends upon various parameters, including your performance status, your biopsy report, and the presence of certain mutations or targets. So, for this, you should consult your treating doctor, as this will involve a physical examination apart from reviewing your reports.

Always communicate openly with your treating doctor about your preferences and concerns. Living with metastatic cancer often requires ongoing treatment, which can be physically taxing but also mentally overwhelming. Here are some strategies that can help you:

1. Continue treatment as advised by the treating doctor. Be on regular follow-up and get all the investigations advised in a timely manner.

2. Regarding clinical trials: It is to be discussed with your treating doctor. Since the availability of a clinical trial and her eligibility to be enrolled in such trials depend upon the national policies and her condition. This will be better guided by her treating doctor.

3. Palliative care services could be involved. Palliative care is not just for end-of-life; it can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life throughout cancer treatment.

4. Counselling and support groups: Individual therapy or support groups (both for you and your caregivers) can provide a safe space to share experiences and emotions. Support groups specifically for metastatic cancer patients may help you connect with others facing similar challenges. Such groups can be found with the help of online platforms and your treating doctor.

5. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Practices such as meditation, guided imagery, yoga, or deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress, anxiety, and fear.

6. Open communication: talk openly about your feelings and concerns. Understand that it's okay to have bad days and that seeking help for emotional distress is important.

7. Maintaining social connections: Staying connected to family and friends can be a significant emotional lifeline.

9. Navigating cancer progression by routine checkups and consultations with the treating doctor.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Nitesh Goyal

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At November 14, 2024
Reviewed AtNovember 25, 2025

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Nitesh Goyal
Dr. Nitesh Goyal

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