Community Member
a year agoI was diagnosed with Invasive Lobular Carcinoma in September. I am 55 and ER+/HER2-. I have had two lumpectomy surgeries. According to the pathology reports, my surgeon got it all by the second surgery. Took 5 lymph nodes and all clear. Waiting on Oncotype DX results. If the Onco results come back low enough, I will only need radiation and a hormone blocker. Said they’d want to put me on Arimidex for the next “x” years. Anybody have any thoughts or experience with this hormone treatment? Any questions I should ask at my next oncology appointment (prior to starting treatment)?
Accepted Answer
Many people in this community have shared their experiences with hormone therapy treatments, and it's great that you're thinking ahead about questions to ask your oncology team. Common topics members often discuss with their doctors include potential side effects, how long treatment typically lasts, and ways to manage any symptoms that might come up. The community here has lots of helpful insights from others who've been on similar treatment paths, so feel free to share your questions as they come up.
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Community Member
6 months agoI also had ER+/HER- and chose double mastectomy. Oncotype score 15, so started Arimidex. Medical oncologist told me the most common side effect was joint stiffness and discomfort. In the first months, I was ok, but eventually experienced the stiffness, especially first getting out of bed in the morning or if I sat too long. A brisk walk helped make it tolerable without any OTC pain meds. After a few months, my hands were affected, so I discontinued the Arimidex. Doctor recommended to stay off for 3-4 weeks and I have an appt. coming up. I am guessing he will recommend another aromatase inhibitor. He indictated that patients often tolerate one better than another. I urge you to be sure to take Calcium and vitamin D supplements with AI. I hope you tolerate the med well-
Community Member
2 months agoMany people in this community have shared their experiences with hormone therapy treatments, and it's great that you're thinking ahead about questions to ask your oncology team. Common topics members often discuss with their doctors include potential side effects, how long treatment typically lasts, and ways to manage any symptoms that might come up. The community here has lots of helpful insights from others who've been on similar treatment paths, so feel free to share your questions as they come up.
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