Hi, I’m an 82 year old, recently diagnosed with endometrial cancer about to start chemotherapy. I also have macular degeneration, dry in one eye and occasionally wet in the other. I’m worried that chemo can make AMD worse. Any one with similar experience?
Hi DaphneG
Welcome to the Womb group. I am sorry to hear that you have recently been diagnosed with endometrial cancer. My own cancer was in 2022 and I had surgery, followed with chemotherapy and then radiotherapy.
I have not had any experience with macular degeneration so do not know how it may be affected. The best people to talk to are your CNS and consultant as they have your full medical history etc. We do have the Macmillan Support Line available everyday from 8am-8pm and you could ask about AMD and chemo.
There are different types of chemo and different regimes and everyone can be affected differently. Doses can be adjusted if needed. My chemo was carboplatin and paclitaxel. One side effect- and it was a more minor one was that my eyes became irritated. I was prescribed eye drops that helped. It was a sort of gritty/ itchy feeling a bit like hayfever. I think losing my eyelashes may have been part of it.
During chemo they will monitor you closely and you will have regular reviews. You should also be given a 24 hour helpline number for the hospital and if you do get any worrying effects then there is always someone you can call for help/advice.
It may be worth speaking to your CNS about whether you need more frequent eye examinations during and after the chemo just so you can be monitored for any changes.
I wish you well for your chemo and if there is anything you need, then you know where we are.
Jane
