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Robyn_W's avatar
Robyn_W
Member
12 years ago

Eyes and tamoxifen

Hi everyone.Yesterday,I went for an eyesight check,which was long overdue! I have been reading about the retina and Tamoxifen,so this prompted me to go along and get my check done! the optometrist was great,and told me that Tamoxifen can have an effect on the retina,and it is a good idea to get a baseline test done when you start on it,then follow up every year.Has anyone else done this,or know anything about the eyes and Tamoxifen.Hope you are all doing OK.Cheers xox Robyn

4 Replies

  • The optometrist told me that it is the retina that can be affected,and yes it CAN cause cataracts too.It usually would start to happen after 12 months on Tamoxifen,but of course,like every other side effect,it doesnt involve everyone.I guess because I am 59 I am so aware of my eyesight now anyway.All downhill from here right?!!!!!Haha. I am getting my test results (I got the ultrasound back,but the onc got me to do blood tests as well,as she likes to check everything)from the spotting that I had,this Wednesday,so I will let you know what my oncologist says about all this stuff! Cheers Robyn.xox

  • thanks for that information - I will see my optomotrist prior to starting now I know this. always such good information and support on this sight. 

    keep well Robyn

    Margxx

  • Yes,I knew Tamoxifen could cause eye issues but I thought it was catarracts. I had my eyes checked after a year on Tamoxifen because I thought my eyesight had deteriorated.I just needed slightly stronger glasses for reading,otherwise my eyes were fine.You know I really think we should have routine checks on our eyes and uterus whilst on this drug.But the doctors only seem to order tests after you get symptoms.Anyway,hope your eyes were ok Robyn.I'm due for so many medical checks it makes my head spin.Throw dental work in too- oh I'm such a sook but I'll just have to "man up"!  Tonya xx

  • Yes,I knew Tamoxifen could cause eye issues but I thought it was catarracts. I had my eyes checked after a year on Tamoxifen because I thought my eyesight had deteriorated.I just needed slightly stronger glasses for reading,otherwise my eyes were fine.You know I really think we should have routine checks on our eyes and uterus whilst on this drug.But the doctors only seem to order tests after you get symptoms.Anyway,hope your eyes were ok Robyn.I'm due for so many medical checks it makes my head spin.Throw dental work in too- oh I'm such a sook but I'll just have to "man up"!  Tonya xx