out on a limb

[aoifee]

I had a lumpectomy last year (less then 2cm) invasive, but no lymph node involvement
Hormone receptor positive.

I had the usual 30+ radiation treatments.

I have been taking Arimidex for the past 6 months.  The side effects are more than I can tolerate.

Extreme fatigue to the point of being like a zombie every day.
Huge weight gain - 40 lbs in 6 months- from 125 to 165 at 5'4" height
Horrible skin aging - crepe like texture on arms and leg and face
Headaches (never had them before)
Gross hair loss - almost bald on top.
All of the above causing serious depression.. to point of comtemplation of suicide

Add above to the fact that I had a serious heart attack in 2000. Entire left side of heart shut down & kidneys complete shut down.  I was a  'miracle'  recovery with stent implant. Took myself off statins last year.

I am 75 years old and live alone

Yesterday I decided to quit taking the Arimidex. I phoned my oncologist and left a message on the nurse voice mail.   No one has returned my call.

What are the statistics of recurrance with / without Arimidex treatment?

I have been told I am in the 2% range.. which to me is not worth the horrible side effects of Arimidex.  

[Dennis MD]

Hi.
It’s good to know that you are feeling better already.  There are so many issues surrounding breast cancer treatment in the elderly.  The risks and benefits of treatment should always be discussed before treatment is started.  
Please continue doing self-breast examination and note for any changes in your breast.
Stay positive.

[aoifee]

Thanks you so much for your encouragement.  I really feel as though a veil has been lifted from me. I am seeing clearly now and for the first time in so long I feel I can get through the day with a smile and not complete exhaustion.  I even have energy to do a few chores.. never thought I be happy to do that, but there you go.  I feel I have ME back again.

My oncologist never did return my phone call.  

Have a woonderful day -- enjoy every moment and thanks again for taking the time to respond.

[marydenise]

I had the same diagnosis, as you. In my case, a 2cm IDC, no lymph node involvement, hormonoe positive.

For me, I rejected, the radiation. And the Tamoxifen. I was Peri-menopausal.

If the breast cancer comes back, I'll deal with it, then. Surgically.

For your part, you made the right decision to just stop the Arimidex. It's not gaining you, anything. In fact, it sounds like it's ruining your life. You're right, it's like a 2% more chance the cancer won't come back if you take this drug.

IMO, stop taking it, and hopefully your life will improve.