Should I skip AI inhibitors after breast cancer surgery due to side effects?

It's been 1 month since my single mastectomy, and I too opted not to take the drugs or have reconstruction. All I want is this port out and get back to living my life. Im so far in debt and am looking to go back to work. Good luck to everyone and God Bless you.

I couldn’t agree more. I tried 3 different AIs in 2018 and just couldn’t tolerate the side effects- brain fog, depression, joint pain, hair loss. I now have cancer again, waiting for a bilateral mastectomy and I’m worried they’ll want me to take AIs again. I don’t think I can do it.

I wouldn't take them, but that's my opinion. I could have gotten a lumpectomy but I didn't want radiation. My margins are clean and so far so good. Hang in there.😘

I had my lumpectomy on Sept 5th, my radiation consultation is tomorrow. Not sure what to expect, I’ve prepared two pages of questions, but I still feel like this is a shot in the dark. I’m stage 0 so they keep saying I’m lucky; but this sure as hell doesn’t feel like luck. Reading your experiences over the last month have been helpful with preparing my questions. I just want to thank everyone for being transparent and helping us newbies.

I had lumpectomy after chemo and followed by 5 days a week for 6 weeks . Triple negative hers . Ten years ago . Well almost . My breast has been fine all this time . Clear mammos ECT. Then it just pulling inverted and boob on my arm !! they say stage 4 with a lesion in my hip. I just want my lymph to start drawing again but they say chemo first and then hospice ? I feel fine . I'm not doin chemo and going to hospice ! Wtf ? I'm having breast pain like it's infection . I have nobody. Mom and sis died in those same 2 years . My grandson is the reason I get up in the morning. Nothing to it but to do it ! Is how I got thru first time but a year later I had congestive heart failure. It's gotten better , alot better and I'm not wanting to risk chemo . Am I wrong ??

Hi Lisa.. I am facing a similar situation at age 79 with recurrence and the chemo question.. should I risk chemo.. it’s a hard one

It would not be so hard if I hadn't had congestive heart failure . They just haven't told me that it will prolong my life so I'm feeling ok except my arm is swollen and boob is stretched flat. Don't know why they won't just do surgery on lymphatic system ?

Treatment decisions after breast cancer surgery are deeply personal, and it's completely understandable to feel conflicted about potential side effects when reading about other patients' experiences. While online support groups can provide valuable insights from fellow survivors, these decisions are best made in partnership with your oncology team who knows your specific medical situation and can discuss both the benefits and risks based on your individual case. Consider having an open conversation with your doctor about your concerns - they may be able to suggest alternative approaches, different medications, or strategies to manage side effects if you do decide to pursue treatment.

I also chose not to have the reconstruction 13 yrs ago. The chemo and radiation was enough. Beside I had a breast reduction 6 yrs. before and took 51/2 hours. I didn’t want to put myself through it again. But I find it to be more of an asset than not. Good luck to u all . My name is Mary