October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it offers an opportunity to shed light on a disease that has touched millions of lives.
Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers among women in the United States. In fact, 1 in 8 women will have a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime.
At Klingensmith’s Drug Stores, we want to encourage patients and their cancer caregivers to learn more. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting a loved one, knowing what to expect during breast cancer treatment can make a big difference.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the different types of treatments for breast cancer, what usually happens during treatment, and tips for managing side effects.
Understanding Breast Cancer Treatment Options
No breast cancer treatment plan is exactly the same. They are personalized to meet each patient’s unique needs. The type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health, are key factors that doctors consider when designing a treatment plan.
Here are some common types of medical treatments for breast cancer, as outlined by the American Cancer Society:
1. Surgery
Surgery is often the first step in treating breast cancer. It’s typically recommended when the tumor is localized and can be physically removed, especially in the early stages of breast cancer before it has spread to other parts of the body—which is why early detection and regular check-ups are essential.
Here are some common types of surgery for breast cancer:
• Lumpectomy
A lumpectomy, otherwise known as a partial mastectomy, is a type of breast-conserving surgery where only the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue are removed. This procedure is usually recommended for patients with early-stage breast cancer or smaller tumors.
The goal of a lumpectomy is to remove the cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy breast tissue as possible.
Most patients will need radiation therapy after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. While lumpectomy is considered a less invasive option than a mastectomy, it is just as effective for many patients when combined with radiation therapy.
• Mastectomy
A mastectomy is a surgical procedure that removes all of the breast tissue, either from one or both breasts. It’s used as a treatment for various stages and types of breast cancer. It may also be performed as a preventive measure for those at high risk, which significantly reduces the chances of developing breast cancer.
There are several types of mastectomies, such as a total mastectomy, which removes the entire breast, or a double mastectomy, which removes both breasts. Patients may opt for breast reconstruction either immediately following surgery or at a later time.
The decision to undergo a mastectomy is highly personal, and while it can offer peace of mind by reducing cancer risk, it can also bring emotional challenges that require support from healthcare professionals and support groups.
2. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of strong drugs (like doxorubicin or paclitaxel) to target and kill cancer cells throughout the body.
In early-stage breast cancer, it’s often administered after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. It’s also given before surgery to shrink larger tumors, making them easier to remove.
In advanced or metastatic breast cancer, chemotherapy may help control the cancer’s spread to other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy is a common and effective treatment for breast cancer, but it can lead to side effects such as hair loss, nausea, and fatigue. Always work with your healthcare provider to find strategies that can reduce discomfort during treatment.
3. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy waves, like X-rays, to precisely target and destroy cancer cells. It’s often recommended after surgery to ensure any remaining cancer cells in the breast or nearby areas are eliminated, reducing the risk of recurrence.
This treatment is typically localized—meaning it focuses on the specific area where the cancer was found—minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. In cases of metastatic breast cancer, which occurs when cancer spreads beyond the breast, radiation therapy can also be used to manage symptoms and control the spread of cancer to other areas like the bones or brain.
Radiation therapy is highly effective, but it may cause side effects such as skin irritation, fatigue, and swelling in the treated area, which can vary based on the dose and location of the treatment.
4. Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy is a common treatment for certain types of breast cancer that grow due to hormones like estrogen or progesterone. If tests show that your cancer is influenced by these hormones, doctors will likely recommend hormone therapy.
Medicines like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors either block the hormones from reaching cancer cells or reduce the amount of estrogen in the body, which helps slow or stop cancer growth. This treatment is often used for several years to help prevent recurrence, making it an important part of long-term breast cancer care.
However, hormone therapy can come with side effects, including hot flashes, joint discomfort, and an increased risk of blood clots, which your healthcare provider will consider when determining the best treatment plan for you.
What to Expect During Breast Cancer Treatment
Every breast cancer patient’s experience is unique. However, certain experiences are common across different treatments.
Here are some things patients and caregivers can expect during the process:
Doctor Visits and Tests
During treatment, you’ll likely have regular visits with your healthcare team. These appointments will track your progress, manage side effects, and be beneficial for adjusting treatment plans.
Blood tests, scans, and other monitoring methods will be used to assess your body’s response to the treatment. Staying on top of these appointments allows your doctors to catch any changes early and modify your care accordingly.
Emotional Ups and Downs
Treatments for breast cancer can be overwhelming for both patients and caregivers. It’s common to experience a range of emotions, from anxiety and fear to sadness or even depression.
Caregivers may also face emotional strain as they navigate the demands of providing support. Recognizing these feelings and seeking help—whether through support groups, counseling, or talking to loved ones—is essential.
Emotional health is just as important as physical health during treatment. Stress management techniques can help patients and caregivers improve their resilience, maintain better focus, and stay more positive during this challenging time.
Managing Side Effects During Treatment
Coping with side effects is a big part of navigating breast cancer treatment. Below are some practical tips for managing common side effects.
Fatigue Management
Fatigue is often unavoidable—studies show that 80% to 100% of patients experience some level of breast cancer fatigue during treatment. This fatigue is different from normal tiredness, as it may persist even after sleeping and can interfere with daily activities.
As such, patients should prioritize rest. Everyone needs 7-9 hours of sleep, but this is especially true for breast cancer patients due to the toll that chemotherapy, radiation, and other therapies take on the body.
To cope, it’s important to exercise regularly, even with gentle activities. Regular exercise can help reduce fatigue by boosting energy levels and improving overall well-being, as it can help maintain strength and mobility during treatment.
Hair Loss: Preparing and Coping
Hair loss is a common side effect of breast cancer treatment, particularly for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Along with cancer cells, chemotherapy can also target healthy cells—particularly hair follicles. This causes many women to experience partial or complete hair loss due to chemotherapy or other treatments.
For those dealing with hair loss, wigs, scarves, or hats can help patients feel more comfortable. Some women opt for cold caps during chemotherapy, which may reduce hair loss by cooling the scalp.
Remember: hair loss is temporary. If you are struggling with this side-effect, support groups and confiding in loved ones can offer comfort and emotional support.
Nausea Control
Nausea is a common side effect of breast cancer treatments like chemotherapy because the drugs can irritate the stomach and affect the body’s digestive system.
Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding spicy or greasy foods can help reduce nausea, especially during tough treatment days. Ginger tea, crackers, or bland foods like toast may be easier on your stomach and offer gentle relief. Medications prescribed by your doctor can also be highly effective in controlling nausea.
Your healthcare team is there to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re struggling to manage this symptom—no matter how insignificant it may seem.
Skin Care During Radiation
If radiation therapy causes skin irritation, you can maintain a gentle skincare routine to prevent further discomfort.
Keeping the area clean, moisturized, and free from irritation will help reduce symptoms like redness and swelling. Use gentle, fragrance-free products and avoid harsh soaps or exfoliants that could aggravate the skin.
Your doctor can recommend specific lotions or creams that are safe to use during treatment, and applying these regularly can soothe irritated skin and promote healing. Wearing loose, breathable clothing can also help prevent additional irritation to the treated area.
Breast Cancer Awareness and Support Make a Difference
We’ve discussed some of the different treatment options for breast cancer, side effects, and what to expect during treatment. However, breast cancer awareness is not just about having the facts—it’s also about supporting those going through treatment.
This October, let’s spread breast cancer awareness and continue to support those in need.
At Klingensmith’s Drug Stores, we understand the difficulties breast cancer patients and caregivers face. That’s why we are proud to participate in the Real Men Wear Pink campaign, raising funds for breast cancer research and support.
In addition, our team is here to provide personalized care, including prescription refills, medical supplies, and support services, to help you navigate this challenging journey.
For more breast cancer information or to ask us a question, don’t hesitate to reach out.
