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Aromatase Inhibitors: Did you decide to go on them or not?
Nanaloves: I’m about to start arimidex and just feel that the contraindications , bone issues etc. are overwhelming. I’m 70 years old, dodged a bullet I feel with zero stage DCIS but the follow up is pretty much no different then if it was more aggressive. I’ve just done 33 treatments of radiation and now they advise arimidex as a preventative. I’m not sure with the beginnings of arthritis and lower back. sensitivity already that I should take it. Anyone not take it and not have a recurrence within the 5 years.
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Hi, I am just joining today. It is recommended that I start with anastrozole after my radiation. So I have a few weeks (15 treatments) until I need to decide.
I was at the medical oncologist yesterday and I am trying to weigh the risk-benefits of the side effects.
In the long run is it worse to have the DCIS come back or have osteoporosis?
It doesn't make sense to me to be potentially miserable for the next 5 years for a chance of something that isn't life threatening returning.
Is anyone checking out natural ways to lower estrogen without the side effects?
I did not take it. My BC was Stage 1 with a 1.1 cm lump. I received 28 days of raidation as well. Im happy to say that I'm 5 years out since I was diagnosed. I have bone issues as well. Good luck with your journey.
@rosiebee
Your individual diagnosis should guide your decision. Opinions from others based on different factors should not influence your decision. AIs save lives. For those who have a high chance of recurrence the drugs significantly help reduce recurrence. But for patients who have a lower likelihood of recurrence the side effects may not be worth it. Work with your medical team to decide. There’s no way of knowing what any outcome will be when there are so many variables. Do what is right for you regardless of what others choose to do.
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