You do not necessarily have to wait until your next check-up to contact your doctor or other health professional. If you have physical or emotional problems as a result of the cancer treatment, or you think that your symptoms have recurred, it is important to let your doctor or specialist nurse know as soon as possible. Your doctor or nurse can then see you earlier than planned and arrange appropriate help such as physiotherapy or the services of a pain specialist.

The Cancerbackup sections on controlling the symptoms of cancer and controlling cancer pain may also be helpful for you.

Even if you are just feeling nervous or worried, it is fine to contact your doctor and let him or her know so that you can have appropriate support. After the trauma of cancer, it is natural for your body to feel different, and for you to feel differently about your body. Aches and pains that you would previously have shrugged off, may start you wondering whether the cancer has come back again. This is a very common reaction.

If you have always been a bit of a worrier it is likely that you will continue to worry, but the focus may be on the cancer and whether it might return. If you find that these fears are getting overwhelming and out of control, discuss them with your GP or cancer specialist. If you explain that you need some reassurance on a regular basis, they can ensure you have regular opportunities to discuss these fears.

Your GP or cancer specialist can make an assessment of your situation and refer you to the appropriate services. Physical and emotional support services are generally available on the NHS or from the voluntary sector. It is usually possible to arrange for you to receive support services when you go for your outpatients appointment at the hospital.