How do you deal with having scans every 3-6 months?

Posted by lhatfield96 @lhatfield96, Aug 4 8:10am

I’ve recently been diagnosed with stage 1 adenocarcinoma 9 mm ground glass. I’m having a wedge resection Thursday and so scared. My doc said I will have to be scanned every 3-6 months for five years. I’m already panicking about that and all the what ifs. How do you all deal with this and live your life? This was caught very early and the prognosis is good and I’m so grateful for that but it’s always going to be in the back of my mind that more will pop up and I’m constantly thinking worst case scenarios. Any advice appreciated. Thank you everyone.

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frouke | @frouke | Aug 4 10:23am

I understand the concerns you’re having with the “wait and watch “ approach but it’s basically a standard procedure for everyone who has dealt with cancer. It’s very life altering and trying to keep the fear away is challenging, somehow we adapt to the changes and try to find comfort from others who are and have been going through this process. The best thing is that you’re doing this because it catches cancer early and the outcome will be better, in your case the nodule is 9 mm and that is very small and can be eliminated quickly with surgery. There’s also some good support groups here that you can benefit from because they have all been where you are, best wishes with your recovery and you will be very happy when it’s over and getting back to living your best life.

Mary | @mjb24 | Aug 4 4:07pm

The thyroid is one of the most radio sensitive organs in the body. With the need for CAT scans every 3-6 months, when you go for a scan ask for a thyroid shield.

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