I had a bone density test on July 7 and have graduated from osteopenia in lumbar area to osteoporosis with a T-score of -3.2.
Not that it's going to make a difference, but does anyone know how Carbo and Taxol affect bone density in the long-term? The information I've come across only seems to deal with side effects during treatment.
My doctor has referred me to an endocronologist and want to be prepared with questions and discuss alternatives to drugs and hormones.
Comments
I do believe an endocrinologist is a great idea.
What we go through but, we are here!
As for degeneration and osteoarthritis I am riddled with both and have been for years now. C 2 & 3 and L4 and 5 all severe degeneration but no change since my diagnosis. Same applies to the osteoarathritis that is in my big toes, thumbs and wrists and especially my knees. But again no change since diagnosis so I'm inclined not to link one with the other myself.
So far neither the osteoarthritis or the degeneration are life altering and for that I am very grateful.
Have great rest of the day.
Thankyou for your reply.
A few days ago I got the news from my doctor after a CT scan that I now have a hairline fracture in my spine. Like many women with ovarian cancer, I have had enough losses: my health, my ability to walk without pain, the cancer recurring twice, the unexpected and devastating death of my husband who was my first and best support, the fatigue and chemo-brain that left me unable to communicate adequately with my treatment team and supportive friends. I felt like the biblical Job, railing at the heavens. The last thing I needed was to lose my ability to walk altogether and give up even more of my independence.
So I decided to research bone loss, and the answer is that yes, both chemo and radiation contribute to bone loss. The majority of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are in their early 60s, a time when bone thinning occurs anyway due to hormone decreases after menopause. When bone loss happens during treatment it’s just assumed that it’s due to aging and/or hysterectomy. Other causes - and there are many - such as lack of exercise and genetic inheritance, are also listed. But there is clear evidence that chemo and radiation for ovarian cancer both play a part in the decrease of bone.
I also am so sorry to hear of your loss(holding on). I cannot imagine how difficult all of this has been for you.
It is good to know there are others who are just like me adjusting to a new body and a different life.
Please keep holding on.🤗
Big big hugs to you,