Heart Complications after Breast Cancer: Risks, Symptoms, and When to See a Cardiologist | Dr Chan Po Fun, Singapore
- Dr Chan Po Fun
- Sep 21
- 3 min read
Surviving breast cancer is a tremendous victory. 🎀 But many women don’t realise that the very treatments which save lives can sometimes affect the heart.
Studies show breast cancer survivors have a 37% higher risk of heart disease and a 52% higher risk of heart failure compared to women without cancer.
If you’ve ever Googled:
“Why am I so tired after chemotherapy?”
“Can breast cancer treatment cause heart problems?”
“Do I need a heart check after breast cancer?”
This article is for you.
Why Breast Cancer Treatment Can Affect the Heart
Certain therapies can place stress on the heart and blood vessels:
Chemotherapy (Anthracyclines): May weaken the heart muscle, especially with higher lifetime doses.
HER2-Targeted Therapies (e.g., Trastuzumab): Can temporarily reduce heart function.
Radiation Therapy: Especially to the left breast, may increase coronary artery disease risk years later.
Hormonal Therapy: Can affect cholesterol and raise the risk of stroke or heart disease.
💡 Most women can complete treatment safely, but regular monitoring is key. Problems with the heart may surface as long as 20 years after!
Case Study: Anna’s Journey — Winning Twice
Breast Cancer, then Heart Complications after.
Anna was diagnosed with breast cancer at 48 years old. She underwent chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and was prescribed targeted therapy (Herceptin).
Like many women, she focused fully on her cancer battle. When she started feeling more tired climbing stairs, she thought it was just menopause or aging.
At her routine check-up, her oncologist referred her for a heart evaluation. An echocardiogram revealed her heart function had declined — a side effect of treatment. Fortunately, it was detected early.
With timely heart medication and regular monitoring, Anna’s heart function stabilised. Today, she is cancer-free and thriving — she even runs 5 km every weekend.
Key takeaway from Anna’s story:
Heart complications are not uncommon in breast cancer survivors.
Early detection and treatment make a huge difference.
Survivors don’t have to choose between cancer cure and heart protection — they can win twice.
Symptoms Breast Cancer Survivors Should Watch For
Many women mistake heart warning signs for “just aging” or menopause.
Don’t ignore:
Shortness of breath, especially climbing stairs 🪜
Ankle swelling or sudden weight gain 🦶
Chest discomfort or palpitations 🚨
Persistent fatigue 😴
If these sound familiar, it’s worth asking: “Should I see a cardiologist?”
When to See a Cardiologist If you are undergoing / have undergone Breast Cancer Therapy
Patients often ask:
“Do I need a heart check before or after starting chemotherapy?”
“Should I do an echocardiogram after radiation?”
“What tests check for chemotherapy heart damage?”
You may benefit from a cardiologist check if:
You have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
You’re receiving anthracyclines or HER2-targeted therapies.
You notice warning symptoms such as breathlessness, swelling, or chest pain.
You want peace of mind after completing cancer treatment.
7 Ways to Protect Your Heart During and After Breast Cancer Treatment
1. Stay Physically Active
Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Even light walking helps.
2. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Follow a Mediterranean-style diet with vegetables, fruits, fish, olive oil, and whole grains.
3. Track Your Numbers
Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight regularly.
4. Go for Regular Heart Checks
Baseline and follow-up tests may include echocardiogram, ECG, and bloodwork.
5. Don’t Ignore Symptoms
Breathlessness, swelling, or fatigue should be assessed early.
6. Manage Stress
Mindfulness, breathing exercises, prayer, or yoga can all support heart health.
7. Work With Your Care Team
Oncologists and cardiologists working together means you can continue treatment while protecting your heart.
FAQs
❓ Can breast cancer treatment cause heart problems?
Yes. Chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, and HER2-targeted therapies can increase the risk of heart disease and heart failure.
❓ What are the first signs of heart problems after breast cancer treatment?
Early symptoms include shortness of breath, ankle swelling, unusual fatigue, and chest discomfort.
❓ Should I see a cardiologist after breast cancer?
If you’re on anthracyclines, trastuzumab, or have risk factors like high BP or diabetes, it’s recommended to get a baseline and follow-up heart check.
❓ What heart tests are needed during or after treatment?
Your doctor may suggest an echocardiogram, ECG, or blood tests to monitor heart function.
❓ How can I reduce my risk of heart disease after breast cancer?
Stay active, eat a heart-healthy diet, monitor your risk factors, and go for regular check-ups.
Survivorship should mean more than just being cancer-free — it should mean living fully, with a strong and healthy heart. 💓
If you’re a breast cancer survivor wondering whether you need a heart check, the answer is simple: it’s worth having the conversation.
✅ Early detection makes a big difference.
✅ Most women can continue cancer treatment safely with heart monitoring.
✅ Simple lifestyle changes go a long way.
📍 If you’d like to discuss your heart health during or after breast cancer treatment:
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