Side Effects and going back to work

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Hi everyone,  After chemo, surgery and rads for Invasive Breast cancer, I was on Tamoxifen for two years and it nearly broke me, mentally and Physically. Im now through the menopause so my onco switched me to Exemestane. Ive been on it for three months and the joint and muscle pains are awful. Also I have a really bad back, Degenerative Disk Disease, and just diagnosed with osteoarthritus. I cant sleep due to the pain and its a challenge to get up in the morning and walk around due to the pain. 

I make myself exercise every day, and am able to walk around 6k a day having two very energetic dogs, but then im done for.  I take Vitamin D, Glucosamin, Tart red Cherry, I dont eat red meat and dont drink alcohol. What else can I do?! 

Since my cancer diagnosis ive not been able to go back to work as my job is so physical, is anyone else in this boat? I would love to hear from you with any tips. 

x Thanks for listening 

  • Hello  

    I am Brian, one of the Community Champions here at Macmillan. I have just noticed your post has gone unanswered. I can't answer it myself as I have a different cancer, but by me replying it will be "bumped up" to the top of the page and I hope seen and answered by members of the Breast Cancer Group.

    Best wishes - Brian

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    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

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    1. So sorry you are so much pain. I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis of lower back years ago and now taking exemestane. I was recommended a book by Dr Sarno …American Dr about mind body links. I was very very sceptical but it has surprisingly helped. I also use Curable app which is more up to date methodology into practice. Worth a try? I hope it helps. 

  • Hi Wearingmanyhats

    So sorry you're in pain - I am similar, degenerative problems and now on letrozole post-menopause.  I use meditation regularly, and little and often exercise (rather than a half an hour of vigorous once in the evening) keeps my body moving and gives it less chance to get stiff.  Just recently I've swapped to taking the little pill in the evening rather than with breakfast and I actually feel better. Bit weird as to why but I'm going with it.  Might be worth a try.  Switching tablets is an option too but when there are underlying conditions I feel we will have trouble whichever one we take.  I work from home and struggle to get myself to the next bedroom to work first thing, so can't imagine going out to do a physical job with all the aches.  I've actually lost quite a lot of muscle strength as well as the joint pains.

    I don't drink alcohol either now, but I have thought the odd glass might relax me now and again and maybe make the discomfort feel less!

    What a ride this is - I hope you're feeling a little better and that you find something to ease the pain xx