Good afternoon,
I have recently started Tamoxifen after having surgery. Its only been 4 days and I have been taking it at night, before bed.
I have been struggling to get up in the morning and feel so tired ,which was never the case before i started these. Could this be a side effect?
Thanks
Hi tweedledee 1
Thanks for your post. It sounds as if you’re having a difficult time with the tiredness you’re feeling.
We hear from many people taking tamoxifen who experience side effects, such as tiredness, so it’s possible that the tamoxifen is the cause of the fatigue you describe even after a short time taking it.
Other factors may also contribute to fatigue, such as: the emotional impact of a breast cancer diagnosis; altered sleep patterns or reduced activity whilst recovering from surgery. In some people it may also be due to other causes, such as changes in blood pressure or anaemia.
If the tiredness continues, it would be a good idea to talk to your treatment team so that they can assess you. You may want to keep a diary to record when you feel most tired to share with them. This can also help you plan activities you enjoy in the times when you have more energy. Trying to stay physically active can help. Eating a healthy well balanced diet is also important.
You’re also welcome to call our helpline 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, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
If you would prefer one of our nurses to call you. To do this, please complete this form ticking the box agreeing to a call back.
Our usual opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and 9am -1pm on Saturday.
Out of hours you can leave a message and we will call you back when we next open.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
Talking to someone who has had a similar experience can also often be helpful. Our Someone Like Me service can match you with a trained volunteer who’s had a similar experience to you. You can be in touch with your volunteer by phone or email and they can share their personal experiences to answer your questions, offer support or simply listen to how you are feeling.
You can ring the Someone Like Me team on 0114 263 6490 or email them at someone.likeme@breastcancernow.org, so they can then match you to your volunteer.
For more details about all of these services, please see the information on the link, or call our free helpline.
Best wishes
Addie
Breast Care Nurse
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