Hi
I am probably being over anxious but I want to use Glucasomine and Chondriton for arthritic knee pain but am worried if it is ok if you have had breast cancer.
I had estrogen positive breast cancer andxa mastectomy in 2006. I know it was a long time ago but I still get anxious about it all.
When I look online there are lots of mixed messages about it so I just need some advice.
Any help appreciated.
Hi
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With best wishes.
Lisa
Ask Our Nurses service co-ordinator
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Hello Vesnik
Thanks for your post asking if it’s safe to take supplements for your arthritis. It’s also understandable that you’re anxious about this given the mixed messages online.
Many people ask about vitamin and herb supplements as they want to do as much as possible to be healthy. There is often the belief that vitamins and herbs are safe as they are considered natural.
There is much we don’t know about supplements and herbal remedies. Herbal treatments don’t have to comply with the same regulations or rigorous testing that conventional medicines do. For many products there is a lack of research to support their use, and some can interfere with conventional medicines including cancer treatments.
You can search this American website, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre, for information about individual herbs and vitamins. Each has sections on existing evidence and what known interaction there is with other medications. You may find that that some herbs have different names in America. You can also search herbal products and supplements on the European website Complementary and Alternative Medicine for cancer and on the American website Medicine Plus
Do speak to your GP, or a pharmacist before taking any supplements. You could also speak to your GP regarding the concerns you have, as they may be able to offer more options for treatment of your arthritis.
You mention still feeling anxious about breast cancer. Some people do find that the worry about breast cancer doesn’t diminish over time and may benefit from talking therapy, such as counselling. You can also talk to your GP about this. Mindfulness can also be helpful.
You may be interested in getting support with Life after cancer.
Dr Peter Harvey a Consultant Clinical Psychologist wrote about how people can feel after treatment has finished. Although the article is many years old and not specific to breast cancer the emotional issues discussed remain relevant. You can read this through the following link
After the treatment has finished - Then what?
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, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Addie
Breast Care Nurse
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As we are unable to monitor for further replies, this thread will now be closed. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread, call our helpline, email us or request a call back.