As of last Friday (the 13th!) I have completed 3/4 of my radiation treatment. So far other than being a little pink and some minor discomfort, I am doing well. The doctor is happy and so I am! Other news from her is not so wonderful. I had a DXA scan 2 weeks ago and she told me according to my results, I have osteopenia. That is kind of midway between osteoporosis and normal 30 year old bones. Considering I am 60 now, it wasn't totally unexpected. Also women are more prone than men to develop osteopenia . We already have a lower bone mass, generally live longer (so our bones age more), and don't get as much calcium as men on average. Oh, and lets not forget hormone changes brought on by menopause. Isn't it wonderful being a woman?
Since the next step on my path is to start taking anastrozole which is notorious for reducing bone mass, my radiation oncologist is sending me to a medical oncologist to discuss my choices. I was already on the fence about anastrozole since there are so many nasty side effects but now I really have to think about it. Tamoxifen has some really serious side effects such as blood clots, stoke, liver damage and endometrial cancer but the anastrozole can cause bone loss and heart problems. Tamoxifen reduces the amout of estrogen in your body while anastrozole blocks cells from absorbing estrogen so they work in two totally different ways. Lots to think about.
I guess that is all for now. I am doing well so I am not complaining. I will be glad when the radiation treatments are over though!
Peace!
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