Ask an Expert is a free question-and-answer service about breast cancer and breast health that is available on weekends. If you'd like to ask a question or comment, please visit us again on Saturday or Sunday. In the meantime, please search the existing topics using the search tool at the top of the page. It's quite possible that one of our many existing topics already addresses your question.
If you would like a consultation with a breast specialist at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center, call 443-778-2778. It is possible to get an appointment for a second opinion within a few days of contacting us.
We hope you find the information helpful!
| Forum | Questions | Ask a Question | |
|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
Hormonal Therapy Questions about Hormonal Therapy. |
2,518 | ![]() |
| Asked | Publicly Submitted Question | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 3/8/2012 | I am 83 - diagnosed with stage one, no lymph node involvement, breast cancer. one year ago. lumpectomy, radiation (l6 sessions) and aromatase inhibitor anastrozole - 1 mg.prescribed. Severe side effects mainly crippling joint pains. Switched to exemestane - 25 mg. hoping for less painful side effects. Did not help. I am afraid of falling and wonder if I should stop cold turkey. Also wondering why anastrozole is 1 mg. and exemestane 25 mg. Thank you | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 3/8/2012 | Thank you for turning to the Johns Hopkins Breast Center. You had a very early stage, ER positive, node negative breast cancer, plus you recieved radiation. Would seem reasonable to have a conversation with your breast medical oncologist in regards to stopping the aromatase inhibitors, due to side effects. Would be very concerned about your falling and possibly breaking something, as well as with severe crippling aching joints sounds like your overall quality of life is decreased. The AI's will also effect your bones. The doses are different as they are different meds. Please talk with your doc. Hope this helps and best wishes! | ||
Please note: This service is not intended to provide primary medical advice concerning specific medical care or treatment. Ask an Expert is a free service operated by health care professionals at the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center. Due to the volume of questions and their complexity, there are times when medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists or oncology nurses are consulted for their input. These individuals volunteer their time for this service and will respond as soon as they are able. Please do not post or send the same question to us in multiple locations or categories.

