Hormone therapy uses drugs and surgery to curb cancer growth. During the course of treatment, patients may experience long term side effects of hormonal therapy. The side effects of hormone therapy may vary from person to person. Hormone therapy can be used along with other types of cancer treatment, such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or surgery.

Hormone therapy works either by preventing the production of cancer-causing hormones or by altering the actions of the hormones.

What are the long term side effects of hormonal therapy?

• Hematoma (Blood clot)
• Brittle bones
• Eyesight changes
• Increased cardiovascular risks
• Memory problems
• Mood swings
• Weight gain

How to manage side effects?

Keep track of your hormone levels using Ankr (myAnkr web portal or the Ankr app). It will help you describe the problem to your doctor or nurse.

Long term hormonal therapy side effects can last until the end of your treatment and beyond. You can manage your side effects and make hormone therapy easier by following these tips:

• Eat a healthy, balanced and nutritious diet.
• Get enough rest and sound sleep.
• Reduce alcohol and tobacco use.
• Quit smoking.
• Get enough exercise, meditation and yoga.
• Drink enough water.
• Have a strong social and emotional support system to help you during hormone therapy for cancer.

When to see a doctor?

Consult your doctor immediately, if you have

• Fever
• Chills
• Severe Headache
• Chest Pain
• Shortness of breath (Dyspnea)

Why does hormone therapy cause side effects?

Hormones are chemicals made by the body that move through the bloodstream. They control certain cells or organs activities. Changes to the amount of a hormone can interfere with a specific activity in the body and cause side effects. Some hormones affect several body functions. Hence, hormone therapy can cause different side effects.