Forum Discussion
Fibromyalgia and Aromatase Inhibitors
Hey Everyone! I've been on Arimidex for about 14 months now and side effects have been quite debilitating in terms of joint, muscle pain. I came off as recommended for 6 weeks and kept a diary for ...
Sorry that you've had such a crap experience. I have had Fibromyalgia for several years which has worsened over the past 3. I've had spinal decompression surgery when an MRI revealed a pretty disastrous failure in my L3/4 and L4/5. I have struggled with pain and stiffness, but was able to power on with Paracetamol. After being diagnosed with IDC & DCIS in April this year, I was prescribed Letrozole then had a lumpectomy, then a Revision and 5 weeks later a L mastectomy. I have mostly recovered from the surgeries, I really need and want to regain fitness, strength and flexibility, but I sometimes am severely restricted due to joint and muscle pain and stiffness. Oncologist suggested wrapping to Tamoxifen, but I am reluctant to swap one set of side effects for another. The Letrozole was clearly effective in slowing cell growth, seen in post surgical biopsies, so I can tolerate the sweats, dry skin etc. once I have better pain relief, which I'm currently seeking.
After listening to the segment on Fibromyalgia on the recent Health Report on ABC Radio National, I'm reassured that research is being conducted in its cause and treatment, early days yet. At nearly 80, I might not see its development, but actual recognition of the condition is a start.
Gardening ( mostly vegies) is my daily therapy and I plan to be back riding my horse once fibro symptoms are under control. 😁
You've had a tough time of it xx. But don't be afraid of swapping AIs, Meurig ... It was my 3rd one that worked for me (WAY better than the first 2 with less side effects!)
Also, consider raising the possibility of using Medicinal Cannabis Oil (MCO) as treatment for your joint/muscle aches & pains. Ask your Onc about it.
I came from an arthritis background & the AIs made it WAY worse ... I was on MCO for 6 years whilst on AIs. It is a more natural alternative to opioids and more serious pain killers. Just a number of drops under your tongue.
Put 'Cannabis Oil' in the search area, to bring up lots of posts about it.
Take care & all the best xx
Sorry for my repetitive, rather over explanatory dissertation.
I will go through a process of checking each option for an improved lifestyle and actually get back on my horse.