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Emotional fragility normal after treatment?

Page last modified on: August 21, 2008
Question from Boadicea: I feel I may need to change my life a bit after mastectomy/chemo, but I seem to be very fragile, emotionally. Is it the same for many?
Answers —Patricia Ganz, M.D.: You have gone through a very challenging experience. Based on the past, this may be more difficult for you than others. Seeking support from your peers from a support group or a discussion online may give you suggestions how to make it to the other side of this experience.
Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: If you are experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, sustained fear, or depression, these symptoms can also respond very nicely to medication. You have been through a very difficult experience. Many of the treatments for breast cancer can shake up the natural balances in your body. If, after treatment, your natural balances do not realign and equilibrate, these medications may help you feel better. Ask your doctor to see if they may have a role in your care.

On Wednesday, October 17, 2001, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Quality of Life. Patricia A. Ganz, M.D.,Marisa Weiss, M.D., answered your questions about how breast cancer can affect physical, emotional, social, and sexual aspects of your life.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Patricia A. Ganz, M.D.Patricia A. Ganz, M.D. is a medical oncologist and a professor in the schools of medicine and public health at UCLA, and is director of the division of cancer prevention and control research at the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center there.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

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