DCIS breast cancer?

Hi. I was very afraid to try tamoxifen also, after reading about all of the possible side effects. My oncologist encouraged me to try it- most patients tolerate it very well. I’m happy that I have zero side effects.
As for how tamoxifen works- it does not “stop estrogen” production. Tamoxifen blocks estrogen from attaching to cancer cells. Estrogen is fully present in the body, but the drugs stop it from connecting with and fueling the tumor.
It’s an old drug that has been proven to be effective. I would encourage you to try it, if your doctor is recommending it.
Good luck. I know this is scary.

I was diagnosed with DCIS in January 2023 and had a lumpectomy with good margins, progesterone and estrogen +. I am 68 years old and decided
not to do any radiation. I take tamoxifen 20 mg/ day. My only side effect has been hot flashes, which are not too bad. There are many worse diagnoses-stay hopeful and positive!

Hi
Thank you for the information. It's been overwhelming getting this diagnosis from my 2 yr mammo check. Still can't believe it's real. Did you have dcis insitu?

Hi
So you had the option of no radiation? I was told radiation and then tamoxifen. I would rather not do radiation.

I was just diagnosed with DCIS in right breast intermediate stage. My consultation with surgeon is a month away and my MRI next week. I’m feeling alone and wish I could talk to someone about what the MRI might show. Am I waiting too long before surgeon consult? My primary doctor didn’t call me back today. Feeling horrible.

chm64 | @chm64

I am sure you have a million questions and anxiety is high.

The MRI will give the providers additional information on location and size of tumor and also check to make sure there are not any other suspicious spots. If the radiologist finds something, you may need to get an additional biopsy. That is what happen to me.

The more information you have prior to seeing surgeon, the better both of you are prepared to decide on what is best treatment plan for you. You do not want to rush into surgery without all the facts.

Take a breath, and take time to enjoy holidays. As I have suggested before, use the month to prepare. Depending on type of surgery you have, you may be laid up for a while. So if have things that need to be taken care of, use the next month to do those things. Busier you are, less time to worry about upcoming surgery.

If there is anything you can do to make yourself in better condition for surgery, do so. Maybe exercise / walk more than normal. If smoke, definitely stop.

Check if there is a support group for Breast Cancer in your area. If not, look for an online support group.

Wishing you the best
Laurie

Thank you for insight. I’m walking now. The stress and anxiety are making me feel sick. Today I’m trying to get in right frame of mind. Thanks again for the support.

Hi
I was recently diagnosed with dcis insitu my surgery is Dec 15. I totally feel the stress and anxiety too. It's hard to wrap your head around it. I hope all goes well for you

Wishing you the very best on the 15th. Praying for your complete healing. I can’t wrap my head around it either. Trying to reclaim some normalcy during this period.