side effects from aromatase inhibitors

After my diagnosis last year I had a mastectomy, radiation and femara.  After several months of no side effects I had sudden onset bilateral arthralgia - stiff painful hands and feet.  My oncologist suggests I switch to exemestane and I have been on a drug holiday for 3 weeks to "wash out" the effects of femara before starting on exemestane.  However  these side effects have lessened only slightly and I wonder if people in a similar situation have noticed they need longer for a wash out.  Also I see that exemestane causes facial hair and I wonder if people taking it have experienced both this effect AND the joint problems.  If so I may as well stay on the femara!

Would be grateful for any information/opinions

Judy