On the Roller Coaster Again

I'm sorry you are going through this scare right now.  Count me in as one who had shingles that didn't wrap.  The rash I had was localized on my side just above my waist line.  The pain was deep as it affects the nerve path.

Let us know what you find out at the onc.  Yes, I will say prayers for you.

Ok, so it's not shingles... it could well be something else that's not "it". Bone Scan and lab work are indicated to rule 'it" out.

(I am glad your Onc did not think this was " it", which in of itself is positive)

Keep your mind active Sharon, while you're waiting for the tests. I am keeping you in my prayers for Good news!

waiting for results...ugh. I'm looking forward to hearing your good news.

still sending good thoughts your way.

thank you Elizabeth!!! You just saved my weekend. ☺

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Interesting that you would ask that tectonicshift. I went to the optometrist this am. He said that my retina, optic nerve and pressure all look normal. There is a very big change in my vision since my last new lenses which was only 18 months ago. He also said that he sees some yellowing/hardening of my lease - in only one eye.

He did not seem concerned. I However am still a little freaked out.

I'm planning to make an appointment with an opthamologist for a more comprehensive exam.

Would love for Elizabeth to chime in but I don't want to take advantage of her expertise....

J

Good luck Sharon! Praying for you..

Sharon

I am thinking of you. Fingers crossed that all is ok.

On to the eye questions.

I did some research and came across the following article in EyeNet which is the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Watch for Ocular Effects of Breast Cancer Drugs in March 2013 journal. ( If I were more tech savvy, I would create a link, but I don't know how to do that)

It looks like some researchers believe tamoxifen increase the incidence of cataract. However a Dr. Fraunfielder the director of the National Registry of Drug-Induced Ocular Side Effects, believes the jury is still out, since cataracts are rarely caused by medication. (except for steroids such as prednisone)

Tamoxifen can cause striking white to yellow deposits. Estimates of the prevalence of this type of retinopathy are 0 - 6 percent. Again it is not clear if these findings are always associated with visual symptoms.

There is a non invasive test that can be done in the office called an OCT (optical coherence tomography) This test can detect early tamoxifen retinopathy. If the disease is detected early, the vision loss is usually reversible.

Jen

It sounds like the optometrist was talking about a cataract. Nuclear sclerosis cataract is a yellowing/hardening of the lens and can cause myopic shift. (an increase in near sightedness which can cause rapid changes in your glasses/contact lens prescription). I think a trip to an ophthalmologist is a good idea. It eventually you need cataract surgery, it is a very successful surgery and usually results in vast improvements in vision.

I hope this helps.

Elizabeth

Thinking of you Sharon...please come back and update us!

Thank you Elizabeth for the info. I am not taking tamoxifen ... But I did take decadron throughout my chemo and at open point during that some steroid eye drops for an infection.

I made an appointment with an opthamologist. When I called the optician for my records he seemed very put off that I was going for another opinion. Ah well, ya can't please everyone!

I can't wait for my new glasses...I'm so aware now of the fact that I can't see far

Pupfoster thinking of you. Hope the answer was good and you are out celebrating.

These scares and waiting times are not easy to tolerate.

Hi, Just thinking of you tonight. SharonM

Prayers for you Sharon. Hope you are doing well.

Hugs and Prayers,

Lexi

prayers for Sharon. I hope you are okay.

I keep checking this thread hoping Sharon will post. Weesa, I have the same concerns. I'm also worried she is in a dark place.