Hi
I’m due to start on letrozole soon and have read about joint aches and pains being a side effect. Is there an easy way to tell the difference between what is a joint ache/pain from the tablets and bone pain which would need further investigation?
I’d heard about a 2 week rule for new pain but from what I’ve read regarding the side effects this wouldn’t help as they are long term. I don’t want to ignore anything serious but equally don’t want to be at the doctors every little niggle!
Thanks
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Hi tori123
Thank you for posting. It is understandable that you have questions about how to tell the difference between treatment side effects from letrozole and symptoms that may need further investigation.
Nearly everyone who has been treated for cancer worries about it coming back (recurrence) and you’re not alone in being anxious about how to identify symptoms that need reporting to your treatment team. After starting a new treatment, every ache or pain may frighten you, but most people find the anxiety lessens as the time goes on.
As a general rule, if you experience any new or persistent pain or other symptom that does not settle within a couple of weeks or so it is always a good idea to report it to your breast care nurse or treatment team. They can then assess you and arrange any investigations if they feel it is needed. They will also be able to advise on how to manage any side effects that may be due to your letrozole.
You may be interested in our Moving Forward resources that are for people who have had a diagnosis of primary breast cancer and have come to the end of their main hospital treatment within the last 2 years. They include our Moving Forward booklet and Moving Forward courses.
Through supportive, open conversations in a safe, confidential space, you’ll connect with people who understand. You’ll also find the tools you need to feel more empowered, confident and in control to begin to move forward with your life.
You can attend Moving Forward either at our face-to-face course or take part by joining online. Find a course near you or register for an online course via the links above or call us on 03457 077 1893.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.
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Katy
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