... IMRT radiation - started Dec 2024, 28th and final dose coming Jan 24
So far no "terrible" side effects but I did experience a pulmonary embolism the end of Dec and spent 3 days in the hospital. Now on Eliquis 5 mg twice daily. Docs are not sure if any of the treatments caused the PE. Scary experience. I'm not sure what the best way forward is so I just depend on my RO and MO and pose questions that are generated based on things shared in this forum.
This forum has been very informative and encouraging. Thanks to all.
Written by
y_o_g_i-2024
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Sounds like you have a good team with a reasonable approach to your PC. I would suggest genetic testing as it can help identify opportunities for additional treatment ( if needed) in the future. I wish you the best on this journey none of us signed on for.
Thanks TylexGP. I did forget to mention (so many things to recall) that my biopsy doctor did a Prolaris Biopsy Test, which indicated the NCCN risk of Unfavorable Intermediate. The Prolaris molecular score was 3.8. I also had a PSMA PET Scan and MRI - with all that info my RO and MO put together a plan of attack.
Read my bio. we are about the same age and you diagnosis looks somewhat similiar to mine, and you treatment plan is really similar to mine.
I am about a year further down the road, with PSA undetectable for almost a year now.
My biggest SE was a raise in blood pressure from the Abiraterone/Prednisone. Honestly the Cardiologist I was going to for some years appeared unable or unwilling to help with it. I ended up with a different Cardiologist that was associated with the Cancer Center and for the most part the BP is in order now. Early on the MO told me to drop my Abiraterone to 750Mg daily to help with the BP issue. That did help and I have stayed on this dosage since.
Other SEs are pretty bad fatigue starting about 2 hours after the Abiraterone that lasts for about an hour. Some gastrointestinal issues from the radiation. I had to wear compression socks for about 11 months but do not any more.
I am sure a lot of folks are advising you, the only thing I will add is exercise. I had been pretty regular at the gym for years. then Covid came and I was daily in my basement, cardio, stretch/minor yoga, and weights. When I was diagnosed and was going thru radiation, I stopped. While I do think it was necessary to stop during that time, I did not start back up right away. THAT WAS A MISTSAKE. Lost most of my leg muscles. Lost quite a bit of upper body, and in general kind shrunk. Started back in July of 2024. Tough road but visually completely back to where I was before. When in the weight room, myh weight is not what is was before (and probably never will be), Cardio is about the same.
I attribute this to being happy with my activity every day (I am retired so work is not an issue), I am able to help with the grandchildren, do some hobbies, take care of yard and such with out a lot of issues, and have been able to start doing some travel again.
So in summary, Best wishes on your journey. Get back into the exercise, do it some what slowly. Trust your MO and RO. Take the time to educate your self on this condition as it is generally for life. This forum helps, so does National Health Institute website, and Harvard Health (they will charge you $25 for their latest download) but I felt it was worth it. Watch this forum for tips on covering the cost of medication. Good RX, Single Care, I can personally attest do help, Not sure about Cost Plus as I have yet to use it, however the website loks promising. Ask you Cancer Center Specialty Pharmacy if there are any Foundations or Non -Profits to help with co-pays, you may be pleasantly surprised.
I hadn't checked my BP at home for several weeks and just found it to be a bit higher - will keep a closer eye on it now. My main SE's are headaches and fatigue so I quit going to the Y (great indoor track and gym) a few weeks ago and will wait until a week or so after my last radiation to get back to it.
I take my Abiraterone around bed time and the Prednisone with morning breakfast.
Appreciate the website suggestions and all the other info.
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.
Looking for support in supporting my husband 
Salvage Radiation Update
Gleason 9, Age 72, stage 3 or 4 ?
Am I headed for Radiation 
To Do Radiation or Not do Radiation?
