@kathyomaha55 @cemd03
As @cemd03 noted, exercise helps with the fatigue (try something easy on arthritic joints like walking briskly on a treadmill at the gym). As you likely, know, one of the biggest side effects of radiation is fatigue and you likely will battle that for at least a year. My favorite product for dry eyes is Systane Gel Drops, by the way; and, for hot flashes, a Chinese herbal called Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan which I get from a doctor of Chinese medicine.

As to the anastrozole, arthralgia (and fatigue) is a common side effect, and, yes, it's difficult to discern what is arthritis pain and what is the arthralgia pain from the anastrozole. Again, try something easy on the joints like walking briskly on a treadmill at the gym. It helps with both conditions.

Genetics play a role in how we metabolize drugs and experience their side effects. About a third of us taking any kind of AI experience muscle and bone aches/pains with them. About 25% either don't start taking a prescribed AI or stop taking it early because of side effects. I've seen stats which suggest that maybe the majority of us don't continue for the length of time prescribed. The fact remains: those with hormone positive BC who do not take an AI are more likely to experience a recurrence... and that should serve as an incentive to try taking one.

If you are struggling with anastrozole, ask your oncologist to switch you to femara or aromasin to see if your particular body can accommodate one of them with fewer issues. AIs work to block cell receptors like estrogen and progesterone in breast cancers that are hormone receptor positive in post-menopausal women. Another choice is to take half a pill per day, or, none at all. Just be sure that you are making an informed choice, however, and read up on all the studies.

And lastly, be easy on yourself. Take that nap when needed... no shame there. No one ever said that cancer recovery was going to be a snap. A good diet also is important, as is achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular screening mammograms, and bone density tests. We're strong... and we can get this recovery business right!