Hi there everyone. Would be interested to hear from anyone who has developed problems with their hands whilst on Anastrozole . About a month ago I suddenly got two ’ trigger’ fingers ( ring finger on both hands) and one of my thumbs the same has happened. It all started at same time so I looked on the leaflet that comes with the Anastrozole and it is listed as a less common side effect. When I saw my GP he said he had never seen this before with anyone on Anastrozole( just my luck!) but anyway agreed as they all started together it must be the drug.
I have since had one finger injected with a cortisone and OMG wasn’t that painful, however it is better. The other on my BC side he won’t do until he checks with Oncologist if it is ok to do due to lymph node being removed . The thumb joint is arthritic and got worse so I had x- Ray first but looks as if that can be corrected with cortisone injection.
My GP said he wants me to stay on Anastrozole so I am prepared to struggle on but definitely more pain in joints as I have arthritis and was warned by my BC surgeon it would get worse. Hey ho stiff upper lip I suppose but very difficult at times. Katy.
Hi Katy
I’ve been on anastrazole for just over a year (started January 2013). I have the same problem with fingers only it’s my middle finger of both hands which are mainly affected (how is a person supposed to drive when she can’t salute other drivers). I did mention to doctor when I was last there but all I got was a grunt as this was not my main reason for visit. I took it that the grunt meant ‘tuff’, so let it go. My hands are usually stiff/sore in the morning (hands feel as if they are swollen) but ease out as the day goes and stiffness returns of an evening. I have no arthritis that I know of but I can certainly feel the difference when walking up stairs, knees are stiff but as I’m 67 now I just put it down to getting older.
Maggie