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Conflicted on taking medication
Breast Cancer | Last Active: Nov 8, 2023 | Replies (99)Comment receiving replies
I had breast cancer 12mm @12:30 in left breast. Not in margins or lymph nodes. I have had hysterectomy ovaries and all. My oncotype score was 16. I did not have radiation. I am taking methetrixate plyquenil folic acid for swelling in hands. Swelling has subsided. My oncologist says no radiation. And does not think I have to take the hormone suppressor pill for 5 years. He said 8% chance of cancer reoccurring not taking suppessor pills and 4% if I take pills. Since I had a hysterectomy I think my chances of reoccurring is even lower. So I am thinking to not take pills. My doctor says the chance of reoccurring so low and the diff between is 4% more. Am I right in not taking pills ?
Replies to "I had breast cancer 12mm @12:30 in left breast. Not in margins or lymph nodes. I..."
Hello I had a question on what your taking for your hands Seems like Tamoxifen causes fluid retention I have osteoarthritis in my hands I believe Tamoxifen increased the pain I have
I sleep on gloves and do exercises for hands so painful not just stiff
Thank you for any info
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It’s definitely a very personal decision. I had 2 tumors with favorable ONCOTYPE so no benefit to chemo. Also no radiation. I feel safer taking the Anastrozole. Post menopausal ( either age or surgical) estrogen is created by the adrenal and adipose ( fat) through conversion of estradiol. These meds help block the conversion of estradiol to estrogen which these estrogen positive breast cancer cells need .
I feel safer on the hormone blocker in terms of mitigating recurrence but you may feel that it’s not for you. If you are on the fence why not try it.. so many women do not have side effects.