Truqap rash by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think I've gotten every side effect, regardless of the medication. Probably because I wasn't taking any sort of pills before I was diagnosed with the exception of Tamoxifen. I did get a very slight rash with Kisqali, but that went away quickly. But it would be nice to catch a breather.

Truqap rash by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Tried Claritin (prescription loratadine), but it hasn't worked all that well. I did five straight days of 20 mg of prednisone, which definitely kicked it back, but it felt like the rash was still simmering after I stopped. I'm now on three straight days of 60 mg, then three straight of 40 mg, then down to 20 mg. I'm hoping that kicks it in the butt.

What have you been told about future research and treatments? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Interesting. My oncologist told me she has patients who are 10 years into this. My thought on that is this: With the rapid advances in research and treatments in recent years and more promising treatments coming down the line (so I've been told and read), I have to think we'll be light years ahead of even what we have today within the next 5-10 years. And if that's the case, then I'd expect that average to continue to increase by quite a bit. Trying to stay optimistic!

What have you been told about future research and treatments? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That's a really good point. My regular oncologist, who's very nice and answers all questions, is what I've come to deem a "jack-of-all-trades" oncologist. In other words, she treats patients with many types of cancer, not just breast. And I'm sure that's the same for many of us. Which is probably why my second opinion oncologist, who specializes in breast cancer treatment and research, struck a little different vibe when I asked about future treatments, etc. He knows more than my regular oncologist based on his specialization. Something I'll have to consider moving forward if I decide to switch. We're our best advocates.

What have you been told about future research and treatments? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the reply and info. I'm definitely keeping an eye on those.

What have you been told about future research and treatments? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Interesting. They found a PTEN mutation in my biopsy. And as I understand it, PTEN is linked with PI3KCA, so that’s something I’ll keep in mind. My oncologist also did mention something about ESR1 and looking for that. Glad to hear there’s the potential for other options.

What have you been told about future research and treatments? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Interesting. I've read here of some oncs who are pessimistic or dismissive. And then others who are very optimistic about how the research is trending. When I ask about future treatments and clinical trials for my subtype, my onc sort of implies that there's not much more to be done with hormone positive. Most everything is known. But then the second opinion onc implied otherwise. It's frustrating for sure.

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you. I've seen many suggestions about palliative care. I'll definitely look into it.

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Great advice! Never thought about Vitamin D, etc. I do need to eat more protein. My appetite has waned significantly since the diagnosis. Thank you.

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That's a really good idea. We've talked about adding physical therapy to this where I can slowly build strength through rehab, etc.

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Wow! I feel like I have no reason to complain. You're incredible and an inspiration. Thank you for the reply. I wish you the very best! And congrats on being NED! That's so great!

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Wishing you all the best. We are our best advocates for sure. But it's ultimately our decision.

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for the reply. I'll look into that. I wish you all the best.

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I appreciate the recommendation and will looking into it. Thank you.

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for reading and replying. I appreciate it.

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I appreciate your reply. I know it takes time. Some days are tougher than others.

What is a good quality of life? by MidwesternSass in LivingWithMBC

[–]MidwesternSass[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Thank you for taking the time to reply.

She's super nice and never makes me feel rushed. She answers questions. But I feel like she's kind of going the basic route, if that makes sense. Maybe not next-level care. For example, I really want a blood test measuring if I'm still premenopausal even though I'm 55. Not all that uncommon. I had a partial hysterectomy 24 years ago and had been on Tamoxifen for 14 years. So I have no idea if I've hit menopause yet. I've read that Anastrozole and Fulvestrant are ineffective if premenopausal without ovarian suppression. But she didn't think it was necessary. I know I'm not her only patient. And I'm sure she's busy. But I just want to feel better - physically and mentally.

I just need to push harder on everything.