Hi David
Thank you for your post.
It’s difficult to know for certain what is causing the symptoms you describe. You don’t say how long you’ve been experiencing the symptoms or whether they have started since the treatments you mention have begun.
Cold and hot sweats can be a symptom of infection so are important to report since drugs such as ribociclib and abemaciclib can lower your white cell count making you more prone to infection.
However, the hormone therapy drugs Zoladex and anastrozole you are having alongside abemaciclib (and ribociclib previously), also commonly cause a number of side effects including menopausal symptoms often experienced by women such as hot flushes and night sweats in many people. The same side effects can also be experienced by men.
You might find our information on managing menopausal symptoms helpful to read, however it’s important to talk this over with one of your treatment team. I’m unsure from what you say whether you’ve found it difficult bringing this up with your oncologist or whether they have not listened to your concerns. If you have a specialist nurse you can talk your symptoms over with them, or you may wish to ask for the opportunity to speak to another member of the oncology team.
At times like this, some people find it helpful to talk with others who are going through a similar experience. We have a secondary breast cancer online discussion forum including a private chat group for sharing information and support. There is also a weekly Live chat session which runs on Tuesdays at 8.30-9.30pm.
We provide a number of different services for people living with secondary breast cancer aimed at providing both information and support online and face-to-face. These include Our Living with Secondary Breast Cancer Online groups facilitated by trained counsellors and speakers live sessions. Our face to face Living with Secondary Breast Cancer groups meet up monthly and also give you the chance to connect with and share experiences with other people who understand what you’re going through.
You might find it helpful to call our helpline to talk this through more or ask any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Catherine
Breast Care Nurse
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