Hi I had treatment over 2 years ago for Er and Her 2 positive BC. I’ve on letrozole and for past couple months developed a cough which got worse with cold. It’s not as bad now just lingering. Can this be a side effect of letrozole ? I also have extremely dry eyes and put drops in about 5 times a day
Hi Hmfm
Thanks for getting back in touch with us. I’m Debbie, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. I am sorry to hear that you have had a cough for a couple of months that is now lingering. Taking letrozole can cause a cough for some people. Often a cough will go away on its own, but we advise that if it lasts for more than 2 weeks and is not improving, you need to contact your treatment team at the hospital or your GP today. They can arrange for an assessment to find the cause of the cough and arrange any necessary tests or medicines.
If the cough is due to an infection, you may need antibiotics. Sometimes a cough can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as blood clots in the lung, which need immediate treatment. You can read detailed information about the side effects of letrozole on this page.
If the cough gets worse or you have other effects, such as a temperature, breathlessness, or chest pain, you need to contact your GP or NHS111 for immediate assessment and advice.
Letrozole can cause extremely dry, sore eyes for some people and it is also important to mention this effect to your GP or treatment team. Your eyes might feel gritty, as though there is something in your eye. This is because the drugs may cause a reaction on the inside of your eyelids. Or you may not be making enough tears. You might have watery eyes but your eyes may still feel dry and sore. This is due to a lack of an important chemical that moistens and lubricates the eyes. Your doctor or nurse can prescribe artificial tears or ointments to reduce dryness.
Some opticians and doctors suggest that having fish oil capsules or eating fatty fish can give omega-3 fatty acids that help with dry eyes. There is not much research evidence available about this and it is important to always check with your doctor or breast care nurse before making any dietary changes or taking any herbal supplements.
I hope that this information is helpful and please do contact us again if there is anything else we can help with.
With best wishes
Debbie C
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us.
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