Hi ,I have been on Aromatase for 18 months now because of breast cancer grade 2 IDC. But since then have developed cataracts and retina branch occlusion. And eyes have rapidly detereated, I know that this can happen because of blocking estrogen which is needed for good eyesight. What do you suggest, as chance of going blind or staying on Aromatase is not a good option either way.
Regards
Hi July70a6808e,
Thank you for getting in touch with us and welcome to our online community. My name is Adrienne and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists at Macmillan.
I see that you’ve joined our breast cancer forum. I hope you are finding it helpful and supportive.
I’m so sorry to hear how much your eyes have deteriorated since starting on the aromatase inhibitor. You are absolutely right in that; it’s the oestrogen suppression that can cause eyesight deterioration, as oestrogen plays a role in maintaining the health of the eye’s surface. Usually, these changes are mild and manageable but rarely, more severe complications can occur, such as in your case of branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).
It's completely understandable that you are considering your options of whether to stop or continue with the hormone therapy. It’s really important that you discuss this with your breast care team and ophthalmologist. I would suggest contacting your breast care nurse to discuss the risks versus benefits in your particular case, so you can make an informed choice.
Some people find switching to a different aromatase inhibitor can improve symptoms but it really depends on the individual and specific cause of the vision problems. If there are any underlying issues that are attributing to the vision problems, switching therapies would not address these issues. That’s why it's important to talk to both your breast care nurse and ophthalmologist.
I really hope this was helpful and do wish you all the best going forward. This is not an easy decision to make but it has to be the right decision for you, at this time.
Take care and best wishes,
Adrienne
(Cancer Information Nurse Specialist)
You can speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us.
Ref: AMc/AC
