Arimidex side effects of bone metastases?

[lizziecee]

I was dx with 2cm invasive ductal cancer Jan 2003 - had lumpectomy, then total axillary removal - 3 of 18 nodes cancerous. 6 x FEC, and 45 grays rads. I have been on Arimidex since Dec 2003 and now find I have severe pain in my left thigh, right elbow and hands. Could this be mets so soon? I had CT and bone scan April 2003 after surgeries but before chemo and no spread found. I was discharged by Onc in Jan 2004, saw breast surgeon March 2004 for yearly check-up - just physical examination and don't have another appt with surgeon until March 2004. Am I experiencing side effects of Arimidex or do you think I should try and see the Oncologist. I understand Drs in England don't do scans unless one has symptoms.
I would appreciate any input you can give me. Many thanks.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear lizziecee:  In the U.S. oncologists are the individual who follow women who have had breast cancer and chemotherapy.  If you are having severe pain, you need to be seen.  Your pain could be due to several things.  Bone mets is a possibility but elbows and hands, in particular, do not describe a typical presentation of bone metastasis.  If you are in England, get an appt with the oncologist or even general practitioner.  You have symptoms, so you should be eligible for testing based on the doctor's assessment.

[lizziecee]

sorry - that should have been March 2005 for next appt with surgeon.

[lizziecee]

Thank you for such a speedy response - you are a lifeline to so many of us bc survivors. I will ring the Oncology Dept. tomorrow and ask for guidance. Thank you ...from the depths of my heart.