New to the group

  • 2 replies
  • 25 subscribers
  • 916 views

Hi, I was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in February 21. It has spread to the base of my skull, my ribs, the middle of my back, my femurs, pelvis and lumber spine. Pain is managed quite well but I'm really struggling with hot flushes. I've just tried my first round of acupuncture but reacted badly (felt really sick). I sleep with cooling sheets at night and use a fan, but they're quite bad at the moment. Does anyone have any ideas?

  • Hi Strensallbird, Welcome to the group, but sorry you find yourself here. I have a different cancer to you,  but my cancer treatment is the same as breast cancer. I am on anastrozole, and zoledex injections, both of which cause hot flushes. They are so draining and at times and embarrassing. My face is constantly bright red, and even when it is cold I am boiling hot.  I have an aircon unit in the bedroom, which does make the room ice cold. It is the only way I can get any sleep. I also avoid hot drinks and alcohol in the evenings as these make it worse. Hot baths are also out. 

    It is horrible isn't it. You mentioned cooling sheets, but have you tried the cooling mats that you can put in the fridge? There is also a cooling gel eye mask that I bought from Amazon which helps. 

    “Try to be a rainbow, in somebody else's cloud” ~ Maya Angelou
    Chelle 

    Community Champion badge
  • Hi Chelle, I agree, hot flushes are definitely draining. I have a cooling mat which I use, but find it doesn't stay cold for long. I too have Zoladex injections as well as taking letrozole, both have hot flushes as side effects. I'll try the eye mask, I think I've got one somewhere. I have found that sitting on the cooling mat reduces the time of the hot flush, you could try that and see if it helps.

    Thanks for your advice.

    Strensallbird