posted by Pauline Crowle…
17 March 2018
Is there anything you can do about hot flushes
Last reply:
21 March 2018 15:21
Hi recently diagnosed with overian cancer spots on stomach chest & lung had my op 3 weeks yesterday but since then im finding it very hard to cope with very bad hotflushes which started into my second chemo,since op their 100 times worst not sleeping their coming night & day
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1 comment
commented by Irish Cancer Society
21 March 2018
21 March 2018 15:21
Hi Pauline,
Thank you for your message. I am sorry to hear of your recent distress as a result of hot flushes. We would always suggest discussing this particular issue with your consultant of liaison nurse in the hospital. As sometimes hot flushes may be a result of a medical issue and need further investigations. There are also medications you can take but it has to be under medical supervision. So as before I would mention it to the team at the hospital. I have added below some tips of dealing with and trying to reduce hot flushes, you may find some of these helpful.
1 Avoid triggers. Triggers may include: stress, alcohol, caffeine, spicy food, hot showers, hot weather, smoking, and overheated bedrooms.
2 Keep your core body temperature as cool as possible
cooler air is associated with a lower incidence of hot flashes. Try this:
• Dress in layers with natural fibers, not synthetic.
• Sleep on cotton sheets and with one foot out from under the covers.
• Keep a bottle of cool water at hand.
• Keep a small fan at your desk and on your bedside table or overhead.
• Keep a hand fan with you during the day.
• Take a cool shower before bed.
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3 Don’t smoking. Cigarette smoking increases the risk of hot flushes
4 Practice relaxation techniques. Try yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises such as paced respiration (slow, deep, abdominal breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth).
If you would like to talk to a nurse in more detail about this please contact us on out Nurseline number 1800200700. I hope this information helps.
Kindest regards.