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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Severe Tiredness And Weakness In Legs Post Chemotherapy?

Hi, Dr. Rynne ~ My name is Susan Downs, 60 years old, and in fair health. Brief history: Stopped smoking in 1998, drinks alcohol, Left Breast Cancer in 2001, and Right Breast Cancer in 2013. (At least I now match :) ) Went thru all the surgeries, the chemo and radiation both times. Cancer-free now; however, that last round of chemo really did me in, and I still don t have my complete strength back yet. I still tire very easily, and can t stand or walk for very long, my legs just give out, and my balance is currently lousy. Naps are very common. Normally, I don t use my cane unless I know I m going to be out of the house for an extended period of time, and I ll use my cane for support and balance primarily, not for pain -- thank God! Okay, here s my question: Earlier this week, I had a bone density scan done (I had one done about 3 years ago), and the results came back today with a 4.1% decrease in bone density since then. I would ask my doctor about this, but she s out of the office this afternoon. I ll try to call her tomorrow. I suspect I have a full-fledged case of osteoporosis now (I had a mild case of it about 10 years ago), and the 4.1% decrease in bone density from three years ago pretty much confirms that. My doctor is prescribing Fosamax (not sure of the dosage yet -- it will be in the mail within a few days). My question is: What exactly is Fosamax? What s the standard dosage, how often is the recommended dose to be taken, and how exactly is it supposed to work? My next step before I have to leave here shortly is to do my own extensive research on Fosamax and osteoporosis. I did medical transcription for over 20+ years in various specialties before our local doctors, clinics and hospitals went to electronic medical records (sigh). I just basically wanted to get a basic overview of what it is and how it works before I go digging deeper for more extensive information. And since I have done medical transcription for over 20+ years, you can actually speak in Medicalese , and I probably won t bat an eye. In the meantime, I hope you re doing well. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Susan Downs :) Sorry, but I don t have $15 to spare. I do appreciate your time though. Have a nice day!
posted on Sun, 17 Jan 2016
Twitter Thu, 28 Apr 2016 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 28 Apr 2016 Last reviewed on
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Dentist 's  Response
Hi Dear,

Welcome to HCM.

Understanding your concern. As per your query you have severe tiredness and weakness in legs post chemotherapy . Well there can be many reasons for symptoms you mention in query like side effect of certain medications , rheumatoid arthritis , viral syndrome , hormonal imbalance , in some cases the symptoms also infections, sleep apnea, acid reflux, and hypoglycemia , but in your case the symptoms are probably due to post therapy complications , so consult your chemo therapist. I would suggest you to consult general practitioner for proper examination . Doctor may order urine test , blood test , along with physical examination , ECG and check vitals . Doctor may refer you to endocrinologist in case of in case of hormonal imbalance . For now drink plenty of water , do light exercises like brisk walking and if you are taking any medicine currently then consult with doctor who prescribed this medicine and discuss the condition , Take healthy diet like fresh fruits and green vegetables , also drink plenty of water .

Hope your concern has been resolved.

Get Well Soon.

Best Wishes,
Dr. Harry Maheshwari
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What Causes Severe Tiredness And Weakness In Legs Post Chemotherapy?

Hi Dear, Welcome to HCM. Understanding your concern. As per your query you have severe tiredness and weakness in legs post chemotherapy . Well there can be many reasons for symptoms you mention in query like side effect of certain medications , rheumatoid arthritis , viral syndrome , hormonal imbalance , in some cases the symptoms also infections, sleep apnea, acid reflux, and hypoglycemia , but in your case the symptoms are probably due to post therapy complications , so consult your chemo therapist. I would suggest you to consult general practitioner for proper examination . Doctor may order urine test , blood test , along with physical examination , ECG and check vitals . Doctor may refer you to endocrinologist in case of in case of hormonal imbalance . For now drink plenty of water , do light exercises like brisk walking and if you are taking any medicine currently then consult with doctor who prescribed this medicine and discuss the condition , Take healthy diet like fresh fruits and green vegetables , also drink plenty of water . Hope your concern has been resolved. Get Well Soon. Best Wishes, Dr. Harry Maheshwari