Starting Tamox post-surgery
Hi all,
I have recently gone through the whole diagnosis and surgery element of breast cancer. I was fortunate enough to have caught it early after a screening and was told I had a 2mm tumour removed. Thankfully it wasn’t in my lymph nodes.
I am still finding my feet about information on post-surgery with radiotherapy and treatment. I have just began Tamox 20mg and am quite scared with how many side effects are listed on the patient information leaflet. I’d really love to hear from others who have or still are going through the treatment and see real stories about the drug. If anyone also has any tips on dealing with treatment day-to-day I’d be so happy. It’s been a scary few months and I am trying to stay positive but it is hard. If anyone could give me an insight, I’m keen to hear your stories 💗 sending best wishes to all of you through these times
Hi LadyLily,
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011. Lumpectomy, chemo and radiotherapy followed by what is now 8 1/2 years of my 10-year treatment on Tamoxifen.
I take it twice a day (10 mg dose) and this suits me better. The side effects have been muscle cramps and of course hot flushes. Taking two smaller doses instead of one bigger dose has helped to reduce the effects a little.
For the cramps I take Berroca twice a week and Cod liver oil twice a week too. That helps as does regular exercise.
These are the two drawbacks but the HUGE benefit is peace of mind and the knowledge that I am following the best recommendations possible for staying healthy.
Concerning the side-effects, I think that the manufacturers have a legal obligation to list the side-effects but that does not mean that these side-effects are common. Most are extremely rare. If your doctor has prescribed Tamoxifen for you it is because the benefits outweigh any possible risks.
Best wishes to you for your ongoing recovery.
Take care
Kath