sunnuntai 25. elokuuta 2013

"Managing the Side Effects of Your Breast Cancer Treatment" - is it possible?

Some words in English for a change. I'm doing ok, I quess. Everything was ok in my one-year-check-up August 12th. :-)

"Everything is ok" doesn't mean that everything is ok: hot flashes are here to stay (I think), and so are many other side effects of my hormonal treatments. I'll be on an aromatase inhibitor called letrozole for four more years.

I am currently on an aromatase inhibitor
In the mornings I feel like I'm a 100 years old granny. I can hardly walk, my knees are so sore. Luckily they get better quickly, and I have continued my all of my good old hobbies. Except for just now: I have an ear infection and antibiotics for it! I got a terrible flu just after I had told my oncologist that I have been so well after the chemos. Knock knock!

I just found an interesting web page about "Managing the Side Effects of Your Breast Cancer Treatment". I hope it helps you, too. I think it's worth reading through: "Drink cold liquids; avoid hot drinks. When a hot flash starts, try drinking cold water to reduce the sensation and keep yourself hydrated." is very good advice. But "Avoid sauna"? No way!

Getting Back That Evening Dress Look
"Getting Back in Evening Dress Look" is an interesting page, too. "A mastectomy can hit hard: the loss of a breast affects young women emotionally and can challenge our femininity and sense of ourselves sexually. Many women choose reconstructive surgery to help regain the body image they had before their surgery. It’s also completely fine to choose not to have reconstructive surgery. Whatever you decide, though, know that together we’re strong enough to keep smiling at the image in our mirrors."

I'm thinking about the reconstructive surgery at the moment. My oncologist told me that it's possible for me to have one quite soon. I'll go and talk about it with the plastic surgeon later this fall. The most likely method for me is the TRAM flap reconstruction:
Pedicled TRAM Flap Reconstruction
Picture: http://www.breastreconstruction.org/TypesOfReconstruction/tram_flap.html
TRAM flap reconstructions are very common these days in Finland, and usually everything goes well. It's a big surgery though. I need to read more and think about it: Is breast reconstruction right for me?


Read more:

http://www.youngsurvival.org/
http://www.breastreconstruction.org/
http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/reconstruction
Getting Back That Evening Dress Look
Getting Back That Evening Dress Loo
Avoid activities that can increase body temperature such as hot baths, saunas and sunbathing. - See more at: http://www.youngsurvival.org/programs/learn/ask-the-expert/managing-the-side-effects-of-your-breast-cancer-treatment#sthash.O46JMHkJ.dpuf
Question Three: Do you have any suggestions for managing hot flashes?
Hot flashes are sensations of increased body temperature. A hot flash usually begins in one region of the body and spreads quickly. A sudden wave of warmth in the face, neck and chest occurs and usually lasts between a minute and several minutes. Researchers attribute hot flashes to irregular expansion and contraction of the small blood vessels of the skin, which produce perspiration and blushing. Hot flashes are usually caused by a lack of estrogen. The sensation from a hot flash is unexpected and can be very bothersome. Most women, however, notice that their hot flashes tend to occur during certain times of the day. Most chemotherapy drugs, including anti-hormonal drugs such as Tamoxifen, cause hot flashes.
The best management technique is to control body temperature and the immediate environment. Hot flashes can also be associated with nausea, dizziness, headache, irregular heartbeat pattern and sweating. Hot flashes are not a disease, even though they may feel that way.
Suggestions for coping with hot flashes:
  • Notice a time or pattern for your hot flashes. Expecting them can give you some sense of control.
  • Dress in light, layered clothing so that outer garments can be removed during a hot flash. Avoid turtleneck sweaters. Wear slip-on shoes that can be quickly removed so you can place your feet on the cold floor.
  • Avoid hot environments, if possible.
  • Drink cold liquids; avoid hot drinks. When a hot flash starts, try drinking cold water to reduce the sensation and keep yourself hydrated.
  • Sleep in a cool room. Use cotton sheets and bed coverings that can be quickly removed. Select cotton pajamas or nightgowns.
  • Turn on an electric fan.
  • Avoid highly seasoned foods, alcohol and drinks with large amounts of caffeine (coffee, tea, soft drinks).
  • Avoid stressful situations that can stimulate you emotionally.
  • Avoid activities that can increase body temperature such as hot baths, saunas and sunbathing.
  • Learn mental visualization techniques that can reduce the intensity of the sensation.
Medications
If your hot flashes are interfering with your quality of life and are not managed with the above suggestions, talk to your doctor. Several of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) medications have proven effective in reducing hot flashes. If you are taking Tamoxifen, the SSRIs citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluvoxamine (Luvox) are recommended in recent studies because they do not to interfere with Tamoxifen's effectiveness.
- See more at: http://www.youngsurvival.org/programs/learn/ask-the-expert/managing-the-side-effects-of-your-breast-cancer-treatment#sthash.O46JMHkJ.dpuf
Question Three: Do you have any suggestions for managing hot flashes?
Hot flashes are sensations of increased body temperature. A hot flash usually begins in one region of the body and spreads quickly. A sudden wave of warmth in the face, neck and chest occurs and usually lasts between a minute and several minutes. Researchers attribute hot flashes to irregular expansion and contraction of the small blood vessels of the skin, which produce perspiration and blushing. Hot flashes are usually caused by a lack of estrogen. The sensation from a hot flash is unexpected and can be very bothersome. Most women, however, notice that their hot flashes tend to occur during certain times of the day. Most chemotherapy drugs, including anti-hormonal drugs such as Tamoxifen, cause hot flashes.
The best management technique is to control body temperature and the immediate environment. Hot flashes can also be associated with nausea, dizziness, headache, irregular heartbeat pattern and sweating. Hot flashes are not a disease, even though they may feel that way.
Suggestions for coping with hot flashes:
  • Notice a time or pattern for your hot flashes. Expecting them can give you some sense of control.
  • Dress in light, layered clothing so that outer garments can be removed during a hot flash. Avoid turtleneck sweaters. Wear slip-on shoes that can be quickly removed so you can place your feet on the cold floor.
  • Avoid hot environments, if possible.
  • Drink cold liquids; avoid hot drinks. When a hot flash starts, try drinking cold water to reduce the sensation and keep yourself hydrated.
  • Sleep in a cool room. Use cotton sheets and bed coverings that can be quickly removed. Select cotton pajamas or nightgowns.
  • Turn on an electric fan.
  • Avoid highly seasoned foods, alcohol and drinks with large amounts of caffeine (coffee, tea, soft drinks).
  • Avoid stressful situations that can stimulate you emotionally.
  • Avoid activities that can increase body temperature such as hot baths, saunas and sunbathing.
  • Learn mental visualization techniques that can reduce the intensity of the sensation.
Medications
If your hot flashes are interfering with your quality of life and are not managed with the above suggestions, talk to your doctor. Several of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) medications have proven effective in reducing hot flashes. If you are taking Tamoxifen, the SSRIs citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluvoxamine (Luvox) are recommended in recent studies because they do not to interfere with Tamoxifen's effectiveness.
- See more at: http://www.youngsurvival.org/programs/learn/ask-the-expert/managing-the-side-effects-of-your-breast-cancer-treatment#sthash.O46JMHkJ.dpuf
Question Three: Do you have any suggestions for managing hot flashes?
Hot flashes are sensations of increased body temperature. A hot flash usually begins in one region of the body and spreads quickly. A sudden wave of warmth in the face, neck and chest occurs and usually lasts between a minute and several minutes. Researchers attribute hot flashes to irregular expansion and contraction of the small blood vessels of the skin, which produce perspiration and blushing. Hot flashes are usually caused by a lack of estrogen. The sensation from a hot flash is unexpected and can be very bothersome. Most women, however, notice that their hot flashes tend to occur during certain times of the day. Most chemotherapy drugs, including anti-hormonal drugs such as Tamoxifen, cause hot flashes.
The best management technique is to control body temperature and the immediate environment. Hot flashes can also be associated with nausea, dizziness, headache, irregular heartbeat pattern and sweating. Hot flashes are not a disease, even though they may feel that way.
Suggestions for coping with hot flashes:
  • Notice a time or pattern for your hot flashes. Expecting them can give you some sense of control.
  • Dress in light, layered clothing so that outer garments can be removed during a hot flash. Avoid turtleneck sweaters. Wear slip-on shoes that can be quickly removed so you can place your feet on the cold floor.
  • Avoid hot environments, if possible.
  • Drink cold liquids; avoid hot drinks. When a hot flash starts, try drinking cold water to reduce the sensation and keep yourself hydrated.
  • Sleep in a cool room. Use cotton sheets and bed coverings that can be quickly removed. Select cotton pajamas or nightgowns.
  • Turn on an electric fan.
  • Avoid highly seasoned foods, alcohol and drinks with large amounts of caffeine (coffee, tea, soft drinks).
  • Avoid stressful situations that can stimulate you emotionally.
  • Avoid activities that can increase body temperature such as hot baths, saunas and sunbathing.
  • Learn mental visualization techniques that can reduce the intensity of the sensation.
Medications
If your hot flashes are interfering with your quality of life and are not managed with the above suggestions, talk to your doctor. Several of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) medications have proven effective in reducing hot flashes. If you are taking Tamoxifen, the SSRIs citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluvoxamine (Luvox) are recommended in recent studies because they do not to interfere with Tamoxifen's effectiveness.
- See more at: http://www.youngsurvival.org/programs/learn/ask-the-expert/managing-the-side-effects-of-your-breast-cancer-treatment#sthash.O46JMHkJ.dpuf
Question Three: Do you have any suggestions for managing hot flashes?
Hot flashes are sensations of increased body temperature. A hot flash usually begins in one region of the body and spreads quickly. A sudden wave of warmth in the face, neck and chest occurs and usually lasts between a minute and several minutes. Researchers attribute hot flashes to irregular expansion and contraction of the small blood vessels of the skin, which produce perspiration and blushing. Hot flashes are usually caused by a lack of estrogen. The sensation from a hot flash is unexpected and can be very bothersome. Most women, however, notice that their hot flashes tend to occur during certain times of the day. Most chemotherapy drugs, including anti-hormonal drugs such as Tamoxifen, cause hot flashes.
The best management technique is to control body temperature and the immediate environment. Hot flashes can also be associated with nausea, dizziness, headache, irregular heartbeat pattern and sweating. Hot flashes are not a disease, even though they may feel that way.
Suggestions for coping with hot flashes:
  • Notice a time or pattern for your hot flashes. Expecting them can give you some sense of control.
  • Dress in light, layered clothing so that outer garments can be removed during a hot flash. Avoid turtleneck sweaters. Wear slip-on shoes that can be quickly removed so you can place your feet on the cold floor.
  • Avoid hot environments, if possible.
  • Drink cold liquids; avoid hot drinks. When a hot flash starts, try drinking cold water to reduce the sensation and keep yourself hydrated.
  • Sleep in a cool room. Use cotton sheets and bed coverings that can be quickly removed. Select cotton pajamas or nightgowns.
  • Turn on an electric fan.
  • Avoid highly seasoned foods, alcohol and drinks with large amounts of caffeine (coffee, tea, soft drinks).
  • Avoid stressful situations that can stimulate you emotionally.
  • Avoid activities that can increase body temperature such as hot baths, saunas and sunbathing.
  • Learn mental visualization techniques that can reduce the intensity of the sensation.
Medications
If your hot flashes are interfering with your quality of life and are not managed with the above suggestions, talk to your doctor. Several of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) medications have proven effective in reducing hot flashes. If you are taking Tamoxifen, the SSRIs citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluvoxamine (Luvox) are recommended in recent studies because they do not to interfere with Tamoxifen's effectiveness.
- See more at: http://www.youngsurvival.org/programs/learn/ask-the-expert/managing-the-side-effects-of-your-breast-cancer-treatment#sthash.O46JMHkJ.dpuf
Question Three: Do you have any suggestions for managing hot flashes?
Hot flashes are sensations of increased body temperature. A hot flash usually begins in one region of the body and spreads quickly. A sudden wave of warmth in the face, neck and chest occurs and usually lasts between a minute and several minutes. Researchers attribute hot flashes to irregular expansion and contraction of the small blood vessels of the skin, which produce perspiration and blushing. Hot flashes are usually caused by a lack of estrogen. The sensation from a hot flash is unexpected and can be very bothersome. Most women, however, notice that their hot flashes tend to occur during certain times of the day. Most chemotherapy drugs, including anti-hormonal drugs such as Tamoxifen, cause hot flashes.
The best management technique is to control body temperature and the immediate environment. Hot flashes can also be associated with nausea, dizziness, headache, irregular heartbeat pattern and sweating. Hot flashes are not a disease, even though they may feel that way.
Suggestions for coping with hot flashes:
  • Notice a time or pattern for your hot flashes. Expecting them can give you some sense of control.
  • Dress in light, layered clothing so that outer garments can be removed during a hot flash. Avoid turtleneck sweaters. Wear slip-on shoes that can be quickly removed so you can place your feet on the cold floor.
  • Avoid hot environments, if possible.
  • Drink cold liquids; avoid hot drinks. When a hot flash starts, try drinking cold water to reduce the sensation and keep yourself hydrated.
  • Sleep in a cool room. Use cotton sheets and bed coverings that can be quickly removed. Select cotton pajamas or nightgowns.
  • Turn on an electric fan.
  • Avoid highly seasoned foods, alcohol and drinks with large amounts of caffeine (coffee, tea, soft drinks).
  • Avoid stressful situations that can stimulate you emotionally.
  • Avoid activities that can increase body temperature such as hot baths, saunas and sunbathing.
  • Learn mental visualization techniques that can reduce the intensity of the sensation.
Medications
If your hot flashes are interfering with your quality of life and are not managed with the above suggestions, talk to your doctor. Several of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) medications have proven effective in reducing hot flashes. If you are taking Tamoxifen, the SSRIs citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluvoxamine (Luvox) are recommended in recent studies because they do not to interfere with Tamoxifen's effectiveness.
- See more at: http://www.youngsurvival.org/programs/learn/ask-the-expert/managing-the-side-effects-of-your-breast-cancer-treatment#sthash.O46JMHkJ.dpuf

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