arthritis ??

I have not been diagnosed yet but am developing symptoms which I ,as a retired nurse, think are highly suggestive of a scenario like yours. Nearly two years of Anastrozole ( Arimidex) have affected me significantly.

This is tough to answer. I’m 73 so question if due to treatment or just age. But I do feel I have more arthritis symptoms developing the longer I’m on the ai therapy. I don’t see anyone specific for that but do take UC-2 cartilage every day.

@reflector75
I was on Anastrozole for 5 months and had such bad inflammation in my fingers that I couldn’t do anything. I was told this is a side effect to the drug and could go into arthritis. I stopped using it 4 months ago and still feel the inflammation but not as much. I’m hoping I will continue to get better but strongly feel I may have the beginning stages of arthritis in my left thumb. Shouldn’t there be a better way of dealing with the elimination of estrogen? I’m 71 and want to enjoy every day without this pain.

Yes, anastrozle caused severe joint pain in both hands and wrist, including trigger finger which, will require surgery. Had X-rays and radiology stated arthritis of course due to medication. Changed to Letrozole which developed it's own severe uniary and anthropy symptoms. Changed to Exemestane causing teeth pain with very dry mouth symptoms. Even though I have tried several AI meds I still have hand joint pain which I believe will be permanent. Oncologist will discuss what's next for me regarding medication.

I would not be surprised at all by this. I already had arthritis before my breast cancer diagnosis but I have a lot worse pain from it since. I used to get it badly certain times of the year or random bouts of it acting up here or there. Now it seems like a more settled type in my joints, like it's always there hurting. Especially my hands, wrists, elbows, hips and knees. I have been on Lupron injections and Exemestane for nearly 3 years now.

@biddle1267
I’m sorry this is your experience. I have been I
on Anastrozole for fourteen months and have experienced two surges in arthritic type symptoms during that time. One so severe that oncologist suggested a two month therapy break. I’m concerned that at this point even if I stopped therapy these affects would not go away. Based on this I will carry on and hope for no further deterioration.

@reflector75
I hope things progress positively for you. We must enjoy each day of our lives. Find peace and happiness

I was on anastrozole for 18 to 20 months and my wrist and hands hurt so much, It was even hard to make my bed. I had significant arthritis before taking the medication. I had my orthopedist x-ray, my wrist and she said there was no arthritis that it was all inflammation. I went off Anastrozole for about six weeks, and during that time I took a prescription strength NSAID generic Voltaren two times a day for a month. That cleared out the inflammation, it was not clearing by itself. I also had many other side effects affecting my eyes skin and bladder. I’m now on Extemestane and do not have that inflammation. I have to take the pill after a full meal or I have G.I. problems. The medicine also makes me run hot all the time, not like heat flashes. I have to be careful so I don’t overheat. An orthopedist with an x-ray would be able to tell you if what you’re feeling is truly arthritis or if it’s the severe inflammation that you can get with anastrozole. Everyone’s journey is different. Blessing to y’all.