Mike's Story

I have regular hot flushes, fatigue and have gained approximately a stone in weight so far, probably due to hormone therapy. Also some itchiness - usually back, stomach and legs. But I am still able to play tennis although I feel tired afterwards so I would suggest keeping up with a sport. I wake up to pee 2-3 times a night and wake up around 5:30 each day so go to bed by 10pm and try to turn out the light by 10:30. Worth mentioning that I had a rectal barrier insertion operation privately. But I did not have any rectal problems following radiotherapy so I think it was worth it although very uncomfortable - like a prostate biopsy under local anaesthetic. Also did prehabilitation classes which prepared me for my radiotherapy physically ( I also continued regular tennis) and a HOPE course which gave me a good social group of other cancer patients, some of whom were very supportive.

Wear loose clothing so you can shed a layer during hot flushes. Perhaps try mindfulness techniques as hot flushes are sometimes associated with stress.