Hormone therapy, also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), is the mainstay of treatment for advanced prostate cancer. It works by blocking the production of testosterone, the hormone that fuels the growth of prostate cancer cells.

While hormone therapy is effective in slowing down the progression of prostate cancer, it often comes with side effects that can affect a man’s quality of life. The good news is that there are ways to mitigate these side effects in just 3 months.

Side Effects of Hormone Therapy

The most common side effects of hormone therapy are:.

Hot flashes
Loss of libido
Erectile dysfunction
Weight gain
Fatigue
Mood swings

Managing Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are the most common side effect of hormone therapy. They can be managed with the following:.

Dress in layers so you can remove clothing as needed.
Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine as they can trigger hot flashes.
Practice deep breathing and relaxation techniques to help reduce hot flashes.
In some cases, medication such as venlafaxine may be prescribed to help reduce hot flashes.

Improving Libido and Erectile Function

Loss of libido and erectile dysfunction are common side effects of hormone therapy. However, there are ways to improve these:.

Engage in regular exercise to improve blood flow to the penis and maintain muscle mass.
Take sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis) to improve erectile function.
Consider using a vacuum erection device (VED) to help achieve and maintain an erection.
Discuss any concerns about libido or erectile dysfunction with your doctor as there may be other treatment options available.

Weight Management

Hormone therapy can lead to weight gain, which may increase the risk of other health problems. To manage weight:.

Engage in regular exercise to burn calories and maintain muscle mass.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet that is high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables and low in saturated and trans fats.
Avoid processed and sugary foods.
Drink plenty of water.

Combating Fatigue and Mood Swings

Fatigue and mood swings are also common side effects of hormone therapy. To manage these:.

Engage in regular exercise to boost energy levels.
Stick to a regular sleep schedule and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet that includes protein and complex carbohydrates to fuel the body and brain.
Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation and deep breathing to help improve mood.
Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing severe fatigue or mood swings, as medication may be needed.