My first post in this group, but I am SO tired of interrupted sleep. My menopause symptoms started in 2000, flushes, night sweats, awful sleep etc. I went on HRT patches until 2007, and it was magic! All my symptoms vanished within a few days Then I was diagnosed with DCIS (pre breast cancer), and was not allowed HRT any more. I cam off gradually to try to avoid rebound symptoms, but hey-ho they all came back.
For 9 years now, I haven't had 1 whole night's sleep. The most sleep I can get is 90 minutes at a time, but it's usually just 1 hour at a time, because the night sweat will be starting which wakes me up, and gives me palpitations.
I'm exhausted. And I'm sure it's not doing my health any good either.
I've tries so many other things eg herbal, acupuncture, magnets! Even a few prescribed sleeping tablets. Nothing stops the heat!
Has anyone tried clonidine? I've heard of it, but don't know if it's worth asking my GP.
I don't understand why you're not allowed HRT treatment, I'm 63 and have been on low dose HRT for years. My doctor asked if I wanted to stop, I said no because it does my joints good but I would try cutting back to a half dose which I did it made me feel awful. I am now happily back on my usual dose which is 1 mg per day.
I think this is a human rights issue i.e. If you want HRT you should be allowed to have it because it is your human right. Point this out to your doctor who by the way has no right to play God, if he refuses make a complaint and find another doctor.
Good luck.
I was told by 2 breast cancer consultants that I must not take it any more, due to my risk factor. My GP advised coming down gradually, which I did. But as soon as I stopped altogether my symptoms came back. I thought my sleepless nights wouldn't last very long, so I accepted them. But 9 years is a LONG time to not have 1 whole night's sleep!! It has got slightly better, and I have far less daytime flushes. I also have fibroids whcih may well get worse if I have more oestrogen. But I need to get something else sorted. I think I'll ask GP for prescribed alternatives to HRT