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Aromatase Inhibitors: How to choose and manage side effects?
Breast Cancer | Last Active: Sep 7 12:12am | Replies (86)Comment receiving replies
I had a single breast mastectomy after they found invasive ductal carcinoma. Now they are recommending a hormone blocker type of treatment for 5 years. I’m not crazy about taking anything because of side effects. I’m 65 and otherwise in good health, except I do have 3a kidney disease. What would you recommend I do? My lump was 7mm and stage 1; all 4 lymph nodes were negative.
Thank you very much for your service.
Replies to "I had a single breast mastectomy after they found invasive ductal carcinoma. Now they are recommending..."
And you may not have any side effects. Everyone is different 🤷🏻♀️
I moved your question to this related existing discussion where you can connect with others who faced a similar decision:
- Aromatase Inhibitors: How to choose and manage side effects https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/ai-inhibitors/
@clemonsmjn1, you're asking good questions and ultimately the decision is yours to make with your oncologist and kidney specialist. The more information you have specific to your risk factors and related health conditions, the more tailored the answer will be to you and your situation. Of course, your personal preferences are also come into the informed decision making.
Like @celestebradham says, some people have no side effects or some side effects that can be managed. And there are several different hormone blockers to choose from. While one may cause side effects that negatively affect quality of life, another type may not. It's good to keep in mind that forums like this one can make it appear that side effects affect everyone. That is because the women who experience side effects often seek tips and support to help manage the side effects.
It's not an easy decision. @clemonsmjn1 have you talked to oncologist or oncology pharmacist to find out about any drug impact on your kidneys?
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I was 60, I chose a lumpectomy on left breast and reconstructive on both. I had IDC 7mm but also DCIS was 4cm. Grade 1. 15 days radiation with booster . Mine was 99% hormone positive- clear margins and lymph nodes. AI was recommended- I was started on anastrozole which did not agree with my body AT ALL- I think I hit every side effect checklist. I started exestestane, with a few side effects, but with the help of healthy yoga, pranayama, acupuncture and a few supplements I’m good. But it did take a while to figure it all out.