The Link Between Breast Cancer and Back Pain: Insights from Dr. Tammaro

https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/post/breast-cancer-and-back-pain

Understanding connections between breast cancer and seemingly unrelated symptoms like back pain is crucial for early detection and effective intervention for those diagnosed with breast cancer. Dr. Yolanda Tammaro, a board-certified general surgeon with distinguished fellowship training in breast surgery, offers insight into the potential link between breast cancer symptoms and back pain.

Continue reading to learn about the possible links between breast cancer and back pain, how back pain is diagnosed and treated, and tips for managing back pain with breast cancer.

Exploring the Connection Between Breast Cancer and Back Pain

While back pain is not typically an early sign of breast cancer, it can be a concerning symptom in the later stages of the disease due to bone metastasis, tumor location, or treatment-related side effects. As breast cancer progresses to an advanced or metastatic stage (stage 4), it can spread to other parts of the body, including the bones. When breast cancer spreads to the bones, it can weaken the bones and cause pain or even fractures in the ribs, spine, and hips. According to Dr. Tammaro, this bone metastasis of breast cancer can ultimately lead to back pain.

In some cases, a breast cancer tumor can directly press on the spinal cord or surrounding tissues in the back, causing direct back pain. Additionally, certain medications and therapies used to treat breast cancer, such as hormonal therapies like Faslodex and Femara, and chemotherapy drugs like Novantrone, can potentially cause back pain as a side effect.

Those with a breast cancer diagnosis experiencing any new or worsening pain should be evaluated by a doctor promptly. If you notice any of the following symptoms that persist for more than a few days, you should seek medical attention:

● Persistent or severe back pain

● Back pain accompanied by other breast cancer symptoms like a breast lump, nipple discharge, or changes in breast appearance

● Back pain along with fatigue, nausea, constipation, irritability, thirst, or confusion

● Headaches, dizziness, or seizures

● Shortness of breath

● Jaundice or abdominal swelling