Stopping Tamoxifen Migraines

Hi 

I came of Tamoxifen in April after being on it for five years . Prior to that I was five year on an Aromatase inhibitor. 

In August I started getting silent migraines which has freaked me out . After doing my own research I’ve discovered that my brain is trying to deal with the fact that the oestrogen receptors have now been switched back on and oestrogen is now present. I had period of no migraine auras up until 13 days then had a flurry of 4 in a week . The doctors answer is to put me on Propranolol, a beta blocker but I’m not keen as the side effects are probably worse than the 20 minutes of eye sparkles. 
I’ve also experienced menopausal symptoms, aching elbows, stiffness and gaining tummy weight. 
I guess my question is .. has anyone else experienced this and used alternative remedies? After 10 years of medication I’d rather not take more meds ?!?

And will this pass so I can regain some normality

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    We will try our best to reply, but if you also want other users experiences then we would suggest posting in another category on the forum in addition to 'ask the nurses'.

    Breast Cancer Now have an online forum where you can talk to others about this as well.

    Migraines can occur for a variety of reasons, and hormones do play a part. The Natural Migraine Centre has a factsheet about natural remedies. They do mention the use of magnesium supplements to help in relation to migraines, but we always recommend talking to your GP about any supplements that you are taking so they know. They suggest keeping a diary to record migraines to see if there are patterns related to other factors, such as stressors, or over tiredness.

    Taking more omega 3 in the daily diet, and doing some gentle strength training has been reported as helping too. Migraines can become less frequent as the body adjusts to a new balance, often with hormone levels settling. Some women have tried acupuncture to help.

    The Migraine Trust also have some useful information.

    I hope that this helps.

    Best wishes,

    Vanda