Hi,
I’m due to start on 12 weeks of Paclitaxel, a year of herceptin, radiotherapy and 5 years of AIs.
I read everywhere that the side effects of this treatment include joint and muscle pain, headaches, hot flushes, peripheral neuropathy, night sweats etc.
I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and am post menopausal and so have already had all these symptoms for years.
My question is, will these symptoms get worse, or, as I have them already, will I just not notice any difference?
Thanks in advance
Gina
Hello Gina,
Thanks for posting.
It’s understandable to be concerned about how your Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) might impact the potential side effects of the cancer treatment. As you say, some of the side effects listed for paclitaxel, herceptin and aromatase Inhibitors include joint and muscle pain, headaches, hot flushes, peripheral neuropathy and night sweats, which you already experience. The side effects of each treatment vary from person to person, and it is difficult to predict how each individual might react to treatment.
Aromatase inhibitors help reduce the amount of oestrogen made in the body. After the menopause, the ovaries no longer produce oestrogen, but some oestrogen is still made in body fat. Aromatase inhibitors reduce the production of oestrogen further, and so some post-menopausal women do experience an increase in menopausal symptoms.
As you’re already familiar with managing some of these symptoms, your experience might be different from someone encountering them for the first time. You could speak to your oncology team about your concerns. If you are under a specialist for your EDS, it may also be helpful to speak with them, so that they are aware of your concerns and the potential side effects from the cancer treatment. They can work with your oncology team should you experience a flare in symptoms.
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.
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Best wishes
Katie
Breast Care Nurse
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