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I was diagnosed with rectal cancer early in 2012, I began chemotherapy (Xeloda) and radiation in the rectal area right away, daily lasting 1 1/2 months. Surgery to remove the cancer, form a j-pouch and temp ostomy in may 2012, ostomy takedown in July 2012, and other than a hernia and infection, I was fine and recovering until 2014. I was diagnosed with liver mets. I began a harder regimen of chemo, no radiation. The chemo included dexamethazone, leucovorin (Folfox, 5FU, Oxilaplatin, Avastin), other steroids and anti-nausea meds. These lasted for 8 months, along with surgery to resect the tumors from my liver. I have stopped menstruating since 1 year ago due to radiation induced menopause.

 

The result of a recent bone density scan shows osteoporosis in L1-L5 of my lower spine, and osteopenia in hips and shoulders. I am frightened by this diagnosis 1) after finishing 2 bouts of cancer, and 2) my grandmother suffered from early-onset osteoporosis (in her 60's). I am 42. I have no idea when the osteoporosis began or what caused it. I have always been in excellent physical condition, and expected to get back to that lifestyle when  recovered from the recent cancer treatments. Now I am afraid that my quality of life will continually go downhill until I die with painful fractures, inability to do things for myself, shrinking height, deformed posture...

 

Has anybody had similar experience with the radiation and chemo-induced osteoporosis, and what are you doing to treat it? I know technology has changed since my grandmother's experience, decades ago, so I want to learn my options. I am good at taking care of myself, yet am already overwhelmed with fatigue, weakness, muscle/joint pain, taking scads of supplements, multitudes of doctors and physical therapy. One thing at a time, please!

 

Michelle

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Your biggest factor is likely your family history, which you cannot change. There is no reason not to resume your active lifestyle (whitin reason), as weightbearing exercise is the most important thing you can do, other than making sure your vitamin D levels are good and you get adequate calcium/magnesium. Prescription meds are a good idea too. Try not to worry about what has not happened yet.

 

Jan  

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