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
