At 51 years of age, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and am having terrible hot flashes. What causes a hot flash and what can be done to get rid of them?
The exact cause of a hot flash is not entirely known. Interestingly, there is not a significant rise or fall in blood pressure or internal temperature with a hot flash. A number of products can be used for hot flashes in women with breast cancer. Ask your doctor about a group of drugs called SSRI’s and a medication called clonidine. These are available with a prescription. They are primarily used for mood disturbances and high blood pressure, but have been found to be effective in controlling hot flashes. A natural product called Black Cohosh has not been shown to stimulate breast cancer cells like estrogen. Therefore, more and more physicians are considering Black Cohosh to help treat hot flashes in their breast cancer patients. The best product available is a very standardized product called Remifemin. (link to online store) As with all medical decisions, please consult your doctor and/or pharmacist before making a change in your medical regimen or starting any new medication and/or
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