The leaflet explains what will happen now that you have completed your treatment. There is good evidence to show that having regular follow-up appointments does not help prevent cancer returning or identify any new problems. There is strong evidence that symptoms and concerns are addressed more quickly if patients report them as they occur rather than waiting for a routine follow-up appointment. Now that your treatment is complete you will not be seen regularly at the hospital but the team is still here for you if you need them as is your GP.
You and your Doctor have agreed that you do not need to come to hospital for routine appointments. The risk that cancer will come back is different for everyone. By having the treatment recommended by your medical team you have minimised your personal risk as much as possible.
Following treatment for cancer it is normal to experience some worry and anxiety. If you feel that you are not able to move forwards in life please speak to your nurse specialist or GP who can refer you for extra support.
If you need to be seen by a Doctor or a nurse an appointment can be arranged very quickly or the team may advise you to see your GP.
When you should contact your GP or hospital team.
If you experience any of the problems listed below for more than two weeks you should contact your GP or hospital team.
- Abdominal pain/ pelvic pain
- Feeling bloated
- Feeling full quickly when you eat
- Nausea/vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Vaginal discharge/bleeding
- Feeling excessively tired
- Unexplained weight changes (loss or gain)
- Change in bowel habit
- Change in bladder habit
- Shortness of breath/persistent cough
- Leg swelling (lymphoedema)
Any of these problems can be caused for a number of different reasons but it is always sensible to speak to a Doctor or a nurse.