All treatments for breast cancer carry some risk of side effects. Most side effects can be managed and will improve with time. It is important to consider the benefits of treatment along with the possible side effects when making decisions about treatment. Talk to your doctor about any side effects that concern you and how to manage these.
The side effects of chemotherapy and hormonal therapies will depend on which drugs are used. More information is available on this site about side effects of chemotherapy and side effects of hormonal therapy.
Side effects of surgery may include pain, discomfort and/or numbness in the chest area or in the armpit. Some people who have surgery or radiotherapy to the armpit may develop lymphoedema (swelling in the arm). Further reading is available on this site about surgery.
Side effects of radiotherapy may include tenderness or a feeling of tightness in the treated breast and surrounding area, tiredness and changes to the skin of the breast such as redness or swelling. More information about side effects of radiotherapy and skin care during treatment is also available on this site.
