Have been taking Letrozole for 5 months and it seems to be working in that my breast cancer is static, for now.
However the joint pain is unbearable, especially in my hands.
Is there another Hormone Therapy med that does not cause such pain?
Have been taking Letrozole for 5 months and it seems to be working in that my breast cancer is static, for now.
However the joint pain is unbearable, especially in my hands.
Is there another Hormone Therapy med that does not cause such pain?
Dear westongal
Thank you so much for contacting us here at Macmillan Cancer Support, my name is Rae and I am a Cancer Information Nurse Specialist.
Can we first of all suggest that you speak to your own team about your joint pain. We of course will answer your questions, but as we do not have access to your medical notes or a knowledge of other treatments you may have had, or other medications you may be taking it is a challenge to answer your question fully. You are of course very welcome to talk to our nurses here on the Support Line so we can chat through any further details.
Hormonal therapy for breast cancer can cause pain in the joints and muscles. Joint and muscle pain can also be a side effect of other breast cancer treatments too, which is why it is important to speak to your healthcare team.
For many people, the side effects of letrozole can improve within the first few months of starting treatment. If this does not happen your specialist may change you to a different aromatase inhibitor such as anastrozole or exemestane.
The aching or pain can be eased with a mild pain relief, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (please check with your doctor if these drugs are suitable for you). Although exercise may be the last thing that you are thinking about whilst you are aching, exercise that gently stretches your joints or strengthens your muscles can help. Yoga or pilates may help improve your symptoms, and brisk walking can also be beneficial. A physiotherapist may be able to suggest exercises to help.
Being in constant pain can be a challenge, as well as using painkillers, sometimes non-drug treatments can help.
Being well supported during this time, emotionally as well as physically can help. You are more than welcome to contact us here, or we also have local cancer support services that you can access. We also have our breast cancer forum where you can find peer support. We also have information about the ways that we can support you.
Best wishes
Rae, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
Ref/RH/HM
