I have been taking hormones for a number of years. It is the only thing preventing hot flashes and night sweats. Without them, I basically only sleep, collectively, three or so hours a night. Recently, I have to actually beg my doctor to continue prescribing the hormones. She says I've been taking them for too long and that may potentially increase my risk of cardiovascular disease. Not everyone suffers menopause for a prescribed length of time. Unfortunately, I have severe symptoms that haven't decreased. I've tried everything possible OTC and nothing works. Not sure how to impress upon the doctor, that a lack of sleep is adversely affecting me both mentally and physically. Suggestions would be helpful. Thank you.
I an not sure that prolonged use of HRT increases cardiovascular dz. I thought estrogen protect the heart but could increase breast ca risk. I could be wrong. I heard that discontinuing HRT cold turkey would cause recurring of symptoms. Some doctor recommended slow taper of HRT. Have you try that?
are you in the uk?
what about trying another gp in your surgery
or have you a menopause clinic near you, they may be more understanding
failing that you could always see hrt specialist private, then get him to send the prescription to your gp at your surgery
The only prescription thing you may be able to try is beta-blockers. I had a cardiologist put me on them. Honestly though, I only take them when awakened by a heart-racing hot flash which I’ve been having a few times a week the past couple of weeks.
Not sleeping is not good for your heart. I though estrogen was protective of the heart. I for years took soy isoflavones which helped with hot flashes, however, I stopped taking it for months because the only two periods this year were REALLY long lasting and kind of heavy. I read that was from TOO MUCH estrogen so I backed off the soy. Well, now I’m back on it because I don’t really like the beta blockers personally. I’m sensitive to stuff though.
I’ve also read recently that gabapentin can help with hot flashes.