I’m 39 and following lumpectomy + 15 sessions of RT, I started monthly zoladex injection and tamoxifen.
2.5 months in and I’m feeling so low, not sleeping at all which doesn’t help, and I just feel like a shell of my former self. Have been trying to do a phased return to work but I’m not coping, the brain fog and tiredness are really tough and I work in a very intense corporate environment where things move so quickly and I’m just not able to keep up. Actually now thinking I may need a bit more time off.
Feel I really underestimated this part of the process and how hard it would be. I also feel like other people ‘think I’m better’ When actually I am the lowest I have been since the diagnosis. Any advice really appreciated. Thanks
Sorry you are having a difficult time. It’s a challenging journey sometimes.
I’m on goserelin and letrozole for 2 years, doing ok but with its own share of side effects. I sometime consider changing to tamoxifen.
Anyway you may be simply suffering from side effects of your regimen (mood swing) and could bring it up with your consultant.
Take care and be kind to yourself.
I started out on Tamoxifen, then it was agreed I would also benefit with Zoladex. As Zoladex “forces” the menopause, I was transferred straight onto Exemstane, an AI. Which I believe is the preferred route after menopause. Not sure what your circumstances are, or if you have other reasons to be on Tamoxifen, but it may be worth asking if changing to an AI is an option.
Unfortunately from what I’ve read and personal experience, most people have side effects of some sort from any of these Estrogen blockers, but think it’s a case of finding one that you can manage the best.
And fully understand your comment about people expecting you to be “ok” now. It becomes frustrating and sometimes I feel if I say anything, I sound like a hypochondriac! That’s one of many advantages of this forum, it does give you chance to say what you feel and everyone will understand. X
