Profile for vivi

Member Since: June 9, 2006
Last Login: November 23, 2008
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Diagnosis

Recent Posts by vivi

Posted in: Connecting With Others Who Have a Similar Diagnosis + HER2/neu Positive Breast Cancer, Created: May 3, 2008 08:37 am

heart failure testing?

I finished chemo in Feb 07 and stopped herceptin 3 months before I was supposed to as I ended up in hospital with PVC's. My muga was always fine and heart monitor results were fine as well. I am worried about heart failure from the chemo and herceptin, especially after the new findings published not too long ago (1 woman in 10 to 1 woman in 4 will develop heart failure). What are some of the tests you can ask fo? Doctors were never able to explain why I had PVC's but muga was fine...I have also developed neuropathy(burning in my knees) and I started Lyrica which seems to help.

Thanks

Posted in: Connecting With Others Who Have a Similar Diagnosis + HER2/neu Positive Breast Cancer, Created: Mar 19, 2008 11:21 pm

burning chest pain

Hi,

Herceptin gave me heart palpitations,extreme fatigue and I was very moody. Because most women seem to fly through it, I didn't complain much because they tought I was crazy... however, I had to stop herceptin before my year was over as I ended up in emergency with PVC's (irregular heart beats) and I knew that it was from herceptin. My muga scans were always good which made me look every crazier! Anyways, I decided to stop and never had problems after...That was in July 2007. Rest a lot, listen to your body and keep your head up. Things will be better soon enough.

Posted in: Connecting With Others Who Have a Similar Diagnosis + HER2/neu Positive Breast Cancer, Created: Aug 14, 2007 05:24 pm

Heart problems from herceptin, anyone? Need advice

I am half way through my herceptin treatments and after the last one, I went to emergency to inquire about major heart palpitations and heart skipping.They could see it on the monitor and I could literally feel when my heart was about to skip and then beat hard. I had another muga and it was perfect.... The doctor wants me to wear a heart monitor for 48 hours but neither the GP or the oncologist really understand since my muga is good. I have done some reading on Herceptin and there appears to be some more concerns coming out about heart toxicity.

I have skipped one treatment and really nervous about continuing....

Thanks
Confused Sylvie

Posted in: Connecting With Others Who Have a Similar Diagnosis + HER2/neu Positive Breast Cancer, Created: Jun 7, 2007 04:47 pm

Need Suggestions/Opinions/Help

Hi,

Firstly, let me tell you that you are very strong to have chosen a mastectomy. I was 39 when diagnosed, my baby was 7 months old and I chose a lumpectomy and my nodes were negative as well. I did 4 AC, 4 Taxol, 16 radiations and now taking Herceptin. I have concluded that I was pre-disposed to the breast cancer and that my pregnancy, late in life, made it happen quicker. I have read wonderful stories about women who got pregnant after all this and are doing very well.... at the same time, I understand your fear...at first, I kept wondering if I should have had a baby at 39... I even went as far as somewhat blaming my pregnancy for the cancer. I am over that now.... Pregancy is a wonderful thing, raising a child is as well, but I must tell you that the worst fear for me would be to think that I could die and leaving a child motherless...It requires a lot of mental energy to go through all this and I am sending you lots of positive. You will, in time , make the best decision for yourself..... In the meantime, live happy, one day at a time and stay in touch with people.

Posted in: Connecting With Others Who Have a Similar Diagnosis + HER2/neu Positive Breast Cancer, Created: Jun 7, 2007 08:34 am

Herceptin and mood swings

Hi,

Does anyone get mood swings from herceptin? The days following the infusion, I feel so agressive, which is unlike me. Wondering if it's the drug or perhaps I am having post treatment depression?

Thanks for your help.