Dealing With Hot Flashes

Hot Flashes or hot flushes refer to the symptom accompanying menopause. In fact, hot flashes are the most commonly observed symptom of menopause. Studies in this regard show that approximately 75% to 80% menopausal women experience the symptom of hot flushes.

It is observed that in most women menopause may cause hot flashes as a result of the change in hormone levels. Hot flashes are thus attributable to the change in hormone levels which affects the body’s thermostat mechanism, however, the exact cause of hot flashes is not fully known.

Hot flashes refer to a feeling of extreme heat and sweating. Some women may also experience a headache, tiredness or sleep disturbances along with hot flashes. An increase in heart beat may also be experienced during the time. A hot flush may last from approximately 2-30 minutes. Hot flashes may occur in some women many times during the day or week.

However, the intensity and also the frequency of hot flashes decrease over time. The National Institute of Health (NIH) has referred to hot flushes as “a sudden temporary onset of body warmth, flushing or sweating”.

It cannot be generalized, as not all women experience hot flashes during menopause. The symptoms experienced by women during menopause vary from one woman to the other. Hot flashes may be experienced more towards evening and also during times of hot weather. Some studies go to show that thinner women may be the ones who are more prone to hot flashes. Hot flashes experienced during the night are referred to as “night sweats”.

Treating Hot Flashes

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a line of treatment used in case of very severe symptoms experienced during menopause. Hormone therapy is seen to be effective in some cases for treating hot flashes. However, it is not advocated by the USFDA for the treatment of hot flashes as there could be very severe side effects to hormone therapy.

The FDA suggests the use of alternative therapy for treating hot flashes and to adopt hormone therapy only if all other methods of treatment are found ineffective. Natural supplements like evening primrose and black cohosh are also seen as a good alternative for treating hot flashes. These are advantageous as they do not have any kind of harmful side effects.

Diet and lifestyle changes would also provide relief from the hot flashes. Avoid intake of caffeine, chocolates, alcohol and hot spicy food. Dietary changes could go on to make a very significant improvement in your hot flashes condition. A regular healthy balanced diet coupled with a good exercise regime can help eliminate many symptoms related to menopause including hot flashes.

A qualified medical practitioner must be consulted so that you are able to confirm that the symptoms are caused due to menopause. Your doctor would be the best person who would be in a position to prescribe the right treatment for treating or reducing the intensity of hot flashes. A positive frame of mind too can make a lot of difference in coping with menopause and the associated symptoms.

Don’t forget about health reference books when looking for information about your specific problem. Your local library is stuffed full of these types of books. Support groups in your community are also great sources of information.
One reference book I keep at home is the Peoples Chemist . I bought it last year and have found it invaluable for checking out symptoms and treatments of every day health problems.

Ann Marier writes health articles on many general health issues which can be found at http://www.ultimatehealthinfo.com

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This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only