Hi there beind diagnosed with stage 2 prostate cancer, gleason score 5-5 Cambridge score 10. Being on hormone tablets 2 months now making me sleepy and forget things. Operation for removal is October 1st then see what happens, hoping to go back to work 6 weeks later, head is all over the place because I don't believe that one tablets a day can stop the cancer from spreading, will I get back to work. I am a bit worried. I am only 54 and usually very fit.Thanks.
Hi Jackie
Thank you for getting in touch with the Macmillan Support Line.
My name is Gemma, and I am on the Cancer Information Nurses Specialist Team.
I am sorry to read that you are experiencing side effects with your hormone therapy, And also your concern with how these medicines work.
Prostate cancer needs the hormone testosterone to grow. The medication reduces the amount of testosterone in the body. You may have hormonal therapy as tablets or injections. It may be given pre-surgery and for some time afterwards. Hormonal therapy is sometimes given on its own.
Feeling tired is a common side effect of hormonal therapy. Regular physical activity can help reduce tiredness. Hot flushes may make sleeping difficult, so managing these may help you to sleep better.
Memory and concentration can also be affected by hormone therapy or sometimes because you are tired and feeling anxious.
We would always advise you to speak to your doctor or specialist nurse if these symptoms persist or are troublesome.
Waiting to have prostate surgery can also feel very daunting. It is great to hear that you are normally fit and well, and I hope it is reassuring that you can usually go back to normal activities 4 to 12 weeks after surgery.
Going back to work can feel very daunting, try and keep your employees informed of how you are, Talking to people at work can help them support you.
When your head is all over the place it can sometimes help to talk to others going through similar experiences. Our Online Forums can be useful, whether you are looking to connect with someone who has a similar experience or share your thoughts and feelings on how you are coping.
Also, our cancer support specialists can offer you support. They can also give you details of support organisations and counselling services in your area if you feel that would be helpful.
Please do not hesitate to contact us on any of the channels available to you.
Take Care
Gemma.
Ref GeS/ KA
