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[Rachatkinson]

Hi ,I am new to this forum and looking for some advice. 3 months ago I had a DVT in my calf so I had to stop the Hrt I had been taking for the last 17 yrs . ( I had my pituitary gland removed so no longer made my own hormones). I had to stop the HRT cold turkey- at first I thought I had avoided menopausal symptoms, but in the last 3 weeks I have started having hot flushes ( that arn't too bad) but muscle and joint pains that are just getting worse and worse, I struggle to get up and down the stairs, to take off my clothes- all my limbs  seem to be affected . At night it is painful to sleep on either side with tender points on both hips and shoulders. When I wake up one or both of my arms are numb, I have also started getting Raynaud's in my fingers.
I really don't know what to do, I can't go back on HRT but I can't stay like this. Any ideas would be greatfully appreciated-

[bramble]

Hi Rach and 

Could you explore with your doctor any alternative therapies like acupuncture that may help with the joint aches?

Bramble

[Dancinggirl]

Hi Rachatkinson
Going cold turkey can be horrid but Stellajane makes a good point about the body reacting to the loss of oestrogen. I have had 2 breaks from HRT and did cope quite well each time but ended up back on HRT.  I am now doing another break from HRT as, at 60, I think my poor uterus is struggling to cope (had erratic bleeding) and sadly I really don't get on with progesterone - even the micronised progesterone (Utrogeston) which can be really good fro many women -  so will see how I feel over the next few weeks. 
Oestrogen has wide ranging effects on the body and the lack of it will effect us all very differently.
I do think some life style changes can help reduce the impact of this lack of oestrogen. Joint aches etc, can be helped with plenty of Omega 3, Vitamin D and magnesium but this can take time to have an effect. Getting some exercise like regular brisk walking is essential. Maybe get some advice from a reputable dietician and some exercise advice from a physiotherapist.
Another thought: do have your thyroid checked as this could cause the flushes and possibly the aches and pains - it's best to rule out other causes for all your problems. Also, I had a truly horrid virus over Christmas that gave me terrible joint pains and 4 weeks later I'm still having issues!!!!  DG x

[dazned]

Hi I stopped about end of Nov,so far doing ok.......