MEDICAL CASTRATION: OTHER SIDE EFFECTS
The main side effect is enlargement of the breasts. This problem can be eliminated, however, with three low-dose treatments of radiation, given directly to the breast before estrogen is started. In high doses, DES can cause dangerous cardiovascular problems. However, when it’s taken in doses of one milligram a day, side effects such as edema (water retention, which causes swelling in the ankles) can be managed effectively with diuretics. Some physicians recommend that their patients on DES take an aspirin every day to avoid other cardiovascular side effects such as thrombophlebitis (blood clots in the legs), and also to lower the risk of a heart attack. Because of the risk of cardiovascular problems, men with a history of heart disease or thrombophlebitis should not use estrogen as their main form of treatment.
Conclusion: One milligram of DES a day is just as effective as higher doses, and one milligram of DES is just as effective as surgical castration in prolonging life.
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