Forum Discussion

SoloDogMum's avatar
SoloDogMum
Member
2 months ago

Post chemo / zoladex & letrazole side effects (hoping for some hope - please!)

Hello ladies, 

I finished 6 months of chemo (doxy then paclitaxcel) recently and then started on zoladex and letrazole last week. 

I am feeling VERY anxious all the time, very tired and flat - not like "myself" at all and really pretty non-functional. I can barely make a cup of tea and seem to just stare at walls when I'm home alone (often). 

I managed surgery and 6 months of chemo basically alone and unsupported and I coped. Now that I'm closer to family I seem to have really mentally crashed. Motivation is zero and the smallest things are an effort.

 I was more functional than this DURING chemo... 

Is this normal post chemo? A crash? Or is it the new hormone suppressants? Will it pass? 

Can anyone PLEASE offer me any words of wisdom or hope around recovering from chemo and the adjustment times to the hormone suppressants?

Wishing you all so well.

SDM. 

anxiety
depression
Fatigue
hot flushes
joint pain

2 Replies

  • Christina_BCNA's avatar
    Christina_BCNA
    Community Manager
    2 months ago

    Hi SoloDogMum​ I’m so sorry you’re feeling this way right now, and how unsupported you felt during the surgery/chemo process. It sounds incredibly challenging after everything you’ve already been through. Many people do experience a big emotional and physical crash after treatment, and hormone therapy can add to that. You should find this eases with time, but please reach out to your care team or BCNA's Helpline on 1800 500 256 if you find you need some extra support.

    You’ve shown so much strength already , think of how much you have already overcome - this tough phase doesn’t last forever. Sending you hope and gentle encouragement. 💛

  • Katie46's avatar
    Katie46
    Member
    2 months ago

    Hi SoloDogMum​ 

    It's completely normal to have bad days after what we've been through. But if this is more than feeling low for a day or 2 you should speak to someone about that. BCNA have a helpline you can call for a chat, or reach out to your breast care nurse, oncologist or doctor.

    Goserelin and Letrozole are suppressing oestrogen and pushing you into menopause and that could also be causing you to feel low. Your medical team should be monitoring that, and medication can be adjusted or changed.

    Your body is still recovering from the chemo. I felt like I recovered quite well, but there were days when I felt exhausted for no apparent reason, or times when a wave of fatigue would desend and I just needed to lay down and have a rest. 

    I only just realised that hardly happens now, but I'm 18 months post chemo. It just gradually got better as my body recovered.

    All the best for your recovery.