Part of the problem is oncologists are not cardiologists. I went through the ringer trying to get my oncologist to pay attention to my symptoms. Part of it is the percentage of patients who go on to have heart issues is very small so oncologists are quick to dismiss patients symptoms as chemo related. I think if you are on any chemo that has been shown to have cardiotoxic effects you should be paired with a cardiologist who has experience in this area.
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Diagnosed 11/06 IDC left breast Stage 1, High Grade w/extensive High Grade DCIS. Right breast extensive hyperplasia w/calcifications.
ER-/PR- HER2+++
Bi-lateral masectomy 12/15/06 w/expanders
SNB Node Negative
Chemo Taxotere, Cytoxan 2/07-4/07
Herceptin Started 5/07
Exchange surgery 6/15/07
Herceptin stopped after 12 rounds due to herceptin induced cardiomyopathy
On heart meds 'til?
Age 40 at diagnosis
Cancer may have been a defining moment but it does not define me!
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