Oestrogen suppressant

Dear Vegetarian,

My name is Penelope and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. I am sorry to hear that you are having night sweats and now have a urine infection. This must be difficult to deal with as well as recovering from your recent mastectomy. It is understandable that this would make you feel down and alone. It is good that you have got in touch for support.

I am pleased to hear that you have spoken to the doctor’s surgery. You did not mention what the result of this call was, but with any new symptoms we would always suggest getting medical advice straight away. As well as contacting your GP we would also suggest you speak to the breast care nurses in the cancer team for their advice and support. If you do not have their number, you can contact them via the hospital switchboard. You may have to leave a message, but it is important that they are aware of the symptoms that you mentioned.

It sounds like the sweats you had were only overnight, but if you have any shivering episodes, continue to have sweating, have a temperature or are generally unwell please do get more urgent advice. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day if needed. These symptoms could be a sign of infection and as you have had recent surgery it is important to rule out wound infection as a possible cause.

Breast care nurse at your treatment hospital are best placed to offer you personalised support with the symptoms that you mentioned but I hope that the following general information is helpful.

Firstly, it is important to rule out other causes and get advice about your urine infection. When you have done that, you may want to look at information on the side effects of the oestrogen suppression. The charity Breast Cancer Now has some information on menopausal symptoms and breast cancer. Section 5 of the attached link outlines way of managing menopausal symptoms. Some people report that symptoms lesson over time or they find helpful strategies to help manage them.

The Breast cancer Now information on hot flushes and night sweats suggests avoiding caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods, wearing loose cotton clothing and using a silk pillow case or a pillow specially designed to stay cool. It also lists possible treatment options including medication or complementary therapies. Some people also find counselling helps to improve coping strategies which can reduce the impact of symptoms such as night sweats. If you are eligible you can access free specialist counselling through our website here.

You may also find the support of others who have experienced similar symptoms helpful. You can read our online community breast cancer forum, post your own question or search for specific symptoms. Breast Cancer Now also have a going through breast cancer treatment forum. Whilst reading about the experiences of others is not a substitute for advice from your breast care team or GP it may help you feel less alone.

Side effects of hormone therapies can often be managed but there is not one solution that suits everyone. Some people do find that the symptoms settle down after time or that a change in medication may help. Please do discuss these things with your breast care team. As you recover from surgery and experience these new challenges you may find it helpful to focus on your overall wellbeing. The charity Penny Brohn have lots of cancer wellbeing services available online. You may also like to give us a ring on the Macmillan Support Line to talk things through further.

Best wishes,

Penelope, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

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