I also had a stage 2 cancer but did have one sentinel node involved. I have tried anastrozole. My side effects were not pleasant with joint pain and cognitive function issues. Anastrozole caused me some pretty severe memory problems to the point that I thought I was sliding into dementia. Then my oncologist switched me to Tomoxifin, the joint pain was better, but I still experienced brain fog. My oncologist has been wonderful through this whole process, and recently changed my meds again to Exemestane. I’ve been on that for a little over two weeks and so far, so good!!! It seems that all of the breast cancer medications have some potential side effects. Do some research on each of them. There is a LOT of information available with just a google search. If I had an alternative choice with the same reduction in recurrence, I wouldn’t take ANY of the meds!!! My Ob/gyn found the lump in my breast during routine annual exam, and referred me for a biopsy. The biopsy revealed cancerous cells. I was diagnosed as stage 2 following surgery as a sentinel lymph node was involved. I then sought out the very best oncologist I could find in my area. I am very open and honest with her about my feelings, side effects, etc. She is the expert, has made oncology her life’s work, and I feel I need to listen to her expertise. Communication with your oncologist is KEY to a healthy recovery and ongoing management of this dreaded disease. Until cure is found, we must be willing to put up with the best effort and judgement available to us by our oncologists. Also, there is nothing at all wrong with seeking out another oncologist if you are unable to communicate well with your current physician. Your best care is a team effort between you your oncologist, and their staff. Good luck to you!

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