LUMPECTOMY

Hi I have just been diagnosed with breast cancer but fortunately it was caught early and it is only stage 1 with a tumour size of 8.5mm

Fortunately removal of any lymph nodes was not required. I am seeing an Oncologist tomorrow to establish whether or not i need to have a course of

5 Radiotherapy sessions, and also to be informed of what medication would be best for me. I have been taking a low dose of HRT for around 15+ years

and obviously because my cancer was Estrogen reciptor i have had to stop taking it. !! I felt no pain or discomfort after surgery, but the only thing i am 

struggling with now is my hot flushes and night sweats have come back with a vengeance!! and i am really suffering at night with disturbed sleep.

I suppose it's a small price to pay for ridding my body of cancer but i do have other medical problems that also disturb my sleep, i have been recommended

taking Sage and red clover pills which i have been taking for a month, and so far they have not helped. Can anyone who is struggling with the same side

effects recommend anything else they you have tried. It can't have any Oestrogen in it .  Many thanks and Good luck to all you lovely ladies that are going through

survival of breast cancer.

  • Hello, good to hear your cancer was caught early although you're suffering with the sudden drop in oestrogen levels etc. I had a similar diagnosis 3 years ago and know what you mean about the sleeplessness! I'm afraid I resorted to taking a sleeping pill which I got from the chemist (nytol) it worked and I got sleep which was all I wanted. I now find that some deep breathing gets me off to sleep but don't be afraid to try something medicinal if you need it.

    Good luck with the rest of your treatment and for the future xx

  • I was prescribed Gabapentin for the hot flushes. It was my oncologist that suggested it. It can help with sleep for some people too. I am prescribed zopiclone for insomnia. I feel your pain of not sleeping so hope it settles. Chemotherapy pushed me through the menopause . So many factors now affect my sleep. Medical aniexty, menopause, stress, worrying about cancer, I think my cortisol is high. Back before my diagnosis I used to put on some guided meditation and drift off. Those days are gone lol. I also take sage and menopace supplements. Hope you get some rest soon! Sleep is so important.