Understanding the Reasons for Hot Flashes During Hormone Therapy

When undergoing hormone therapy to treat prostate cancer, many men experience hot flashes as a side effect. For those who are unaware, hot flashes are a sudden and intense sensation of heat that can be accompanied by sweating, flushing, and rapid heartbeat. While these symptoms may seem uncomfortable, it's essential to understand the reasons behind them.

In 2004, I learned a new term - micro-metastasis - which was foreign to many physicians at the time. I later discovered that I had likely developed micro-metastases prior to my original diagnosis in early 2003. My treating physician, a Research Professor of Genitourinary Diseases, explained that it didn't matter which primary treatment I received for prostate cancer; it was too late.

During my treatment, I underwent numerous nuclear bone and soft tissue CT scans from 2004 to 2010. These scans allowed us to track the progression of my disease and identify active metastatic lesions. The process was complex, involving concepts such as cancer cellular dormancy and the effects of ADT (androgen deprivation therapy) on existing bone metastatic lesions.

In summary, hormone therapy can trigger hot flashes in men with prostate cancer due to various factors, including micro-metastasis, cancer cellular dormancy, and the incomplete elimination of bone metastatic lesions. While these symptoms may be uncomfortable, understanding their underlying causes is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Reasons for hot flashes