Decide against aromatase inhibitors?

I have not tried the two medications you mentioned for thinning hair and joint pain. I am trying more natural things because I would prefer not taking more drugs. I am using a salve made with frankincense on my joints, and about to try something on my hair. I will let you know if it helps!
Best to you! Hope you are having a good day.

Best of luck with radiation. Make sure you check out the forum on radiation to get advice on how to prevent radiation burn. It can easily be prevented if you apply cream/lotion/aloe vera right after each treatment (in the dressing room) and continue reapply several times a day to at least 2 weeks after the treatment is complete. Light walking is also good for your body during treatment. You will be fine. Radiation is probably the easiest part of the treatment. Hugs.

I found this out through web search.Key Points
-Permanent Binding: Exemestane binds irreversibly to aromatase, but this does not mean the enzyme remains inactive forever.
-Resumption of Function: After discontinuation, aromatase can regain its activity, leading to a potential increase in estrogen levels over time.
I will ask my oncologist about this to confirm.

@mimig77 we are here for you. Stay in touch. When feeling overwhelmed- reach out, tell us how what you are feeling. We are here with lots of HUGS and support. Stay strong. Drop by with a cup of coffee, the light is on. ❤️ blessings 🙏🏼

Thanks again and best wishes to everyone who replied! I ultimately decided to try anastrozole a month ago and, so far, have no side effects. I realize that could change, but I’m very happy that I decided to try it. If you’re on the fence, like I was, ask yourself if you’d be upset if you didn’t try an AI and the cancer recurred. I knew that would bother me, so I, very reluctantly, started the AI.
I may have felt a little weird or “off” at first, but now, that feeling is gone. I am 70, exercise, lift weights, and work part time, so all of that probably helps me to not dwell on it! I also take turmeric which I hope is keeping the severe joint pain at bay. Happy Holidays to all!

@ruffianfan55
Like you, I have had NO bad effects from Anastrazole, going on 5 years now. I have learned that in addition to preventing a recurrence of ER positive cancer, tha Anastrazole has shown an impact on developing dementia. My mom, sister and brother have all been dx with dementia. Not me, at least so far. I am soon to be 74 years old. I plan to continue Anastrazole for as long as possible.

I am 84. 4 years ago after finishing treatment i refused AI and my blood work shows no signs of cancer.

Thank you, if I were 80, rather than 70, my decision might be different. Glad that you are welll!💚

Hi
I also had dcis ER PR positive stage 0 I did not take the AI I had the radiation. I have osteoporosis in my spine and have three compression fractures so I decided to opt out of it and my oncologist was fine with that. It's a personal choice for everyone for me I wasn't going to risk it too many side effects with those drugs. I am now 67. Surgery was December 2023 and February 2024 treatment was the end of March 2024. So far good

I am 71, was diagnosed 30 yrs ago with BC in left breast. Had surgery/ radiation/chemo. In 2022 I was diagnosed with DCIS in same breast. Had mastectomy/reconstruction. In 2025 a red bump appeared on the left breast. Was diagnosed as a benign cyst. But I asked my plastic surgeon to do a biopsy, turns out it was cancer . Just finished surgery/ radiation/chemo.
I see my oncologist this week. I know she will be pushing for AIs. I am not fully on board. I've done my homework and it seems that the potential side effects can be harsh and risky.
Chemo has left with me neuropathy in my feet, a change in my vision, hair loss and terrible fatigue.
I recognize that a 3 times cancer diagnosis makes me a candidate for AIs, but I'm more interested in my quality of life. Living with pain and other bad side effects is not what I want.
Has anyone said no to AIs? What were your reasons? What you are doing to stay on top of your health with regards to potential recurrence?