After TC Chemo-Frequent, Daily Hot Flashes

Chrisesta67

Hi; I finished chemo at the end of July, last year. Was 45 then; turned 46 this past December. At almost one year out from my last chemo infusion, I'm finding that the most challenging side-effect is the regular cycle of hot flashes, every day and every night. My medical oncologist tells me that chemo pretty much pushed me into peri-menopause. Roughly since November/December of last year, I've been experiencing hot flashes every hour of the day. Night sweats are are pretty bothersome, too. I currently take Tamoxifen on a daily basis, so trying to ease the hot flashes with hormone replacement therapy is not an option. Right now, I'm waiting on my health insurance to approve a prescription for Effexor, an anti-depressant that has apparently been found to ease hot flashes. In the meantime, I thought I would ask if anyone knows of any other non hormone-based treatment for hot flashes and night sweats... an intervention that would not be problematic alongside Tamoxifen. Any and all ideas would be much appreciated!   ~ Christine

Moderators

Chrisesta, you're sure to hear from other members about their experiences with hot flashes, and you'll also found a large section All About Hot Flashes at the main Breastcancer.org site, including Avoiding Triggers, Hot Flash Survival Tips, Lifestyle Changes, and Medicines that are known to help.

We hope you can find a solution!

• The Mods

mdg

I was the same age when I did chemo.  I also had bad hot flashes.  I am on Effexor and it does help  me. I have also noticed that if I drink wine, eat sugary foods or white carbohydrates (white bread, rice, pasta,etc....)that my hot flashes are worse.  I try to avoid this foods and they are more under control.  Just my observation.  I hope the Effexor helps you a bit!

Chrisesta67

Many thanks for the reply, mdg. I wish my health insurance would hurry up and approve Effexor so I can give it a try! I'll keep those dietary tips in mind.