What is scan anxiety after cancer?
Scan anxiety is the anxious feeling that comes around the time of scans. It can also come with other follow-up tests after cancer treatment. Many survivors call it "scanxiety."
The feeling usually grows out of the most common fear after treatment. That fear is that the cancer will come back, which is called a recurrence. This fear is normal, and it often lessens over time. But follow-up visits, screenings, or the anniversary of a diagnosis can still set it off.
Several things can help. Let your care team know your concerns. They can give you the facts about your cancer. They can also assure you that they are watching over your health. Keep busy while you wait for results. Spend time with friends or family, or take care of yourself. And remember that a new ache does not always mean the cancer has returned. Still, report anything new or lasting to your team.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Scanxiety: Coping With Anxiety Around Scans and Test Results
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