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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Should my oncologist or Primary care Dr. be checking my blood while I am on Tamoxifen? I've been taking it for almost 7 months now. Ty

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Aurora, IL
April 17
 · 
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A MyBCTeam Member

You can also ask the oncologist, what blood tests, etc. will be monitored through them. Tell them you are due for a check up with your PCP and just want to make sure you are not duplicating efforts, or unknowingly missing something. My oncologist always seemed super disinterested- so I relied more on the PCP than him.

April 17 (edited)
MyBCTeam

Should your oncologist or primary care doctor be checking your blood while on tamoxifen?

While tamoxifen can affect various parts of your body, routine blood work isn't always standard for everyone taking it. However, your healthcare team should be monitoring you for potential side effects and complications.

Your doctor Show Full Answer

Should your oncologist or primary care doctor be checking your blood while on tamoxifen?

While tamoxifen can affect various parts of your body, routine blood work isn't always standard for everyone taking it. However, your healthcare team should be monitoring you for potential side effects and complications.

Your doctor may recommend blood tests or other monitoring if you develop certain symptoms or conditions, such as:

* Liver problems
* Signs of blood clots
* Unusual bleeding or discharge
* Bone density concerns

Some providers recommend regular screenings while on tamoxifen, which might include transvaginal ultrasounds or endometrial biopsies to check for uterine changes, especially if you experience abnormal bleeding. A MyBCTeam member shared they get monitored every couple of months with intravaginal ultrasounds.

It's worth asking your oncologist or primary care doctor what monitoring schedule they recommend for you specifically. They can explain what tests might be helpful based on your individual situation and any symptoms you're experiencing.

If you're having any concerning symptoms like unusual bleeding, chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden swelling, contact your doctor right away.

April 17
A MyBCTeam Member

Hello DebraCorleone. My PCP, oncologist checks my BP. I also have a cardiologist that does check my BP. Always consult your PCP or oncologist to manage your blood pressure fluctuations. Take care 😊✝️🙏

April 23
A MyBCTeam Member

I saw oncologist every 6 months for 10 years and before
each visit had lab work done including the tumor marker CA-15. I was on Tamoxifen for 5 years and Anastrozle for 5 years. The answer is YES.

Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer

April 19
A MyBCTeam Member

My primary care doctor just did my physical and she monitors for the various side effects of Letrozole like increased cholesterol levels etc. You can ask/remind your primary care doctor to check on your next visit.

April 17

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