Hot Flushes in Men: Coping With Hormone Therapy Side Effects

Prostate cancer treatment fluctuates the hormonal balance for men and causes their body temperature to rise. To tackle this, hormone therapy is usually practiced to keep it in control. However, hormone therapy shifts the natural balance of testosterone and disrupts the brain’s temperature-regulating mechanism. Hot flushes, such as sudden sweating and heightened body temperature, are the result of this disruption. While these symptoms are common, they are never discussed openly and can irritate patients to an extent. Understanding the cause of these hot flushes can help patients better plan their coping strategy.

How does hormone therapy trigger hot flushes?

Hormone therapy works by lowering testosterone levels that lowers the cancer rate. However, this leads to a hormonal shift that affects more than just cancer cells. When the testosterone levels drop, the brain’s temperature-regulation centre becomes more sensitive and responds to even minute changes. Men experience sudden chills, sweat, or flushing as the temperature fluctuates. It is essential to know that these changes are physiological and not psychological, as men’s body tries to adjust to the new treatment.

The body’s temperature balance under hormone therapy

Hormone therapy suppresses the testosterone levels and causes instability in the body’s internal thermostat. Due to this, many men experience temperature signals like overheating that trigger heat release through sweating and flushing. These signals can appear suddenly, even during the resting periods, and they vary from mild discomfort to deep surges. Alongside strong medications and other clinical procedures of the treatment, these changes can overwhelm the patients, and their management becomes crucial. Analyzing this mechanism and the cause behind temperature fluctuations can help prevent complications.

Ways to manage hot flushes

Hot flushes, in general, are not fully preventable as they are the side effects of the treatment. But some strategies can control their intensity and frequency.

• Lifestyle adjustments: Wearing light and breathable clothing, avoiding spicy foods, and staying hydrated can help maintain the body’s temperature.
• Cooling strategies: Use fans, cooling pillows, and sleeping in a cool environment manage sudden hot flushes.
• Medical options: Doctors can also adjust the ongoing medications to manage the symptoms when they get severe.

Knowing when to ask for help

Hot flushes are common side effects of hormone therapy, especially when dealing with prostate cancer. However, it is also crucial to know when to seek medical attention. If the flushes get severe, disturb sleep, or affect daily habits, it's important to seek quick medical help to prevent complications.

Treatment adjustments followed by simple strategies can offer meaningful care and maintain the quality of life. Listening to your body and seeking help when needed can help patients stay on track and heal better.