Tamoxifen-Breast Cancer

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1

Was diagnosed with a 0.9 breast cancer tumor. 3 different types - DCIS, Lobular In-Situ & IDC ;aggressive) in that one small tumor. Surgery got all but less then 0.1 mg of the DCIS, then 21 rounds of radiation. Did really well.

Then…the day after last radiation put me on 20 mgs of Tamoxifen- 24 hours later I was so terribly constipated and still am 21 days later. Have painful hemorrhoids and a large fissure. I tried everything but no help so put me on Diltiazem 5 days ago—no help so far just terrible burn & pain when I do get myself to go with some pushing.

I have been on Linzess since 2020 so had a pre-existing bathroom issue!

This pain, burning, hemmy’s & fissure is worse than the radiation.

Has anyone else have this issue with Tamoxifen and so quickly and did it get any better or worse.

I’m not on it & right now no plan to start taking again!

2

Hi bubs,

Thank you for posting. It sounds as though you are having a difficult time with constipation and it is understandable that you feel unable to take your tamoxifen at the moment. Constipation is a common side effect of tamoxifen, and it sounds like your treatment team are aware of the significant impact this side effect has had on your quality of life. They will be able to continue to assess you and advise you on how best to manage the constipation, haemorrhoids and the anal fissure.

It sounds as though you have stopped the tamoxifen and its important to let your treatment team know this. They may suggest a short break or switching to an alternative hormone therapy drug or brand to see if the side effects improve.

You ask if anyone else has experienced this side effect and it may help to post in our discussion forum to connect with other people taking hormone therapy drug.

We also 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 and include our Someone Like Me volunteer service.

For more details about all of these services, please see the information on the link, or call our free 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 additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.

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Best wishes

Katy

Breast Care Nurse

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