Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer in women. One type of breast cancer that can be particularly difficult to manage is triple negative breast cancer.

This type of cancer is more aggressive than other forms of breast cancer and is also more likely to recur.

If you have been diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer, it is important to understand the various treatment options available to you and to take steps to manage the side effects of those treatments.

What is Triple Negative Breast Cancer?

Triple negative breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that is negative for estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER2 protein expression.

This means that the cancer cells do not contain any of these receptors, which are often targeted in other forms of breast cancer treatment.

Triple negative breast cancer is more common in younger women and is often more aggressive than other forms of breast cancer. It is also more likely to recur within the first few years after treatment.

Treatment Options for Triple Negative Breast Cancer

There are several treatment options available for triple negative breast cancer, including:.

Surgery

Surgery is often the first step in treating triple negative breast cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible. In some cases, a mastectomy (removal of the entire breast) may be necessary.

In other cases, a lumpectomy (removal of the cancerous lump) may be sufficient.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is often recommended for triple negative breast cancer because it is more aggressive than other forms of breast cancer. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells and can be given before or after surgery.

Radiation Therapy

After surgery, radiation therapy may be recommended to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a newer type of cancer treatment that works by using the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. This type of treatment is still being studied for use in triple negative breast cancer.

Managing Side Effects of Treatment

The side effects of breast cancer treatment can be difficult to manage. It is important to talk to your doctor about any side effects you may be experiencing and to take steps to manage those side effects.

Some tips for managing side effects of breast cancer treatment include:.

Fatigue

Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of breast cancer treatment. To manage fatigue, try to get plenty of rest and exercise when you can.

Nausea and Vomiting

Chemotherapy can cause nausea and vomiting. Your doctor can recommend medications to help manage these side effects.

Loss of Appetite

Chemotherapy can also cause a loss of appetite. Try eating small, frequent meals throughout the day and drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Hair Loss

Chemotherapy can cause hair loss. Consider wearing a wig or scarf to cover your head or trying a shorter hairstyle that can help disguise hair loss.

Conclusion

Triple negative breast cancer is a challenging form of breast cancer to manage, but there are a variety of treatment options available.

By working closely with your doctor and taking steps to manage side effects, you can improve your chances of successfully treating this type of breast cancer.