Post IMRT questions

[Stellabell]

Have not been here for a while. I had IMRT about 14 months ago and have been on Lupron for a little longer. My Questions: Had a recent heart attack (minor) and have a history of heart trouble. I believe I read somewhere during my furious research phase at the beginning that Lupron may not be the best choice for heart patients. Also recently tested and discovered I was very low on Vitamin B12, perhaps adding to the general fatigue brought on by Lupron. If it is true that B12 is absorbed by the body through the lower intestine, could the radiation treatments be responsible for this?

[timotur]

Sorry to hear about the minor heart attack. I had IMRT and am on Lupron and also have marginally low RBC's, and moderately elevated BP. This is a recipe for a HA, because anemia, caused by a low hemoglobin level in the blood makes the heart have to work harder to pump more blood and oxygen through the body. I had to drop Zytiga after 5 months into ADT, and glad I did now because my BP was very high with it, and I felt uncomfortable playing sport. It's still moderately high, around 135/85, but way down from 165/98. Also, I eat beef once a week, and also beef/chicken liver to help with RBC formation and B12. Best- T

[jazzy53 in reply to timotur]

Interesting post. I've had normal or even low-normal blood pressure all my life. But since starting on Zoladex (similar to Lupron), my blood pressure has been around 145/85 and even higher. When I'm stressed, which is often, the bp can rise to alarmingly high levels. If all goes well, I'll be off ADT at the end of the year but I'm concerned about the damage my high blood pressure might cause. I've seen little in the literature about the connection (or lack of one) between ADT and hypertension. Has anyone seen any good literature about this?

[Tall_Allen]

Firmagon may have fewer CV side effects than Lupron. Talk to your doctor about switching.

Easy enough to get a shot of B12 if you need it.

[RonnyBaby]

I was told to supplement my B12 during ADT, which I did (using SISU under the tongue version). It was part of an arsenal of supplementation than was addressing my immune system, which took a hit due to treatment (radiation @ 79 Gy) + additional node therapy.

In terms of Lupron, the side effects can be severe. Your awareness of that is important and should be part of a greater discussion, in terms of what you can do to manage your overall health factors ....