A sudden rush of heat is never considered to be a comfortable feeling. Knowing you are about to have one doesn't make the feeling any more desirable. Three-quarters of all women experience hot flashes as a symptom of menopause. There's no avoiding this step in a woman's life. Menopause is inevitable, but the suffering shouldn't have to be.
What is a Hot Flash?
A hot flash is an increase in body temperature that is not caused externally. You know you are experiencing one if:
- You begin to tingle, and you feel warm
- Your heart rate increases
- You become flushed and begin to sweat
The major cause for these hot flashes is the hormonal imbalances women feel during menopause. There are studies looking at other potential causes such as diet, because having a poor diet can lead to the increased frequency in hot flashes.
Sparking a Flash
Every woman experiences different frequencies and intensities of hot flashes, and the initiator of a hot flash can be similarly unpredictable. Some of these catalysts include:
- Drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages
- Smoking
- Wearing tight or stuffy clothing
- Eating spicy foods
Stress is also a leading cause in initializing a hot flash, as it is a cause for most ailments we face. Take a deep breath. We have some tips to relieve you of your hot flashes.
Quick Fixes for Hot Flashes
- Drinking cold water
- Putting on clothes that breathe
- Wearing breathable SHEEX Sleepwear
- Sleeping with SHEEX Performance Bedding
Doctor's Orders for Staying Cool
Women often rely on natural supplements or herb and oil relief. When considering these options for a more prolonged treatment to menopause, ask your doctor if they can be combined with prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs you may be taking. If you are considering medication to treat your hot flashes, keep a record of the frequency and intensity of your flashes. While not made for the purpose to combat menopause, some women have found success taking antidepressants to calm night sweats and hot flashes. As always, be sure to consult your doctor before taking any medications to treat your hot flashes and other symptoms. You may want to consider hormone replacement therapy, or HRT. Treating your hot flashes with synthetic hormones has seen positive results, but women who usually turn to HRT have major stints of hot flashes, and are extremely affected by them.
Lifestyle Changes & Choices
Many of the catalysts of a hot flash are caused by choices in how you live your day-to-day life. Making simple changes can greatly decrease the severity of hot flashes. Some changes to consider may be:
- To quit smoking
- Eating a balanced, well portioned diet
- Exercising
Each case of menopause, and the consequential hot flashes, is as unique as the woman experiencing it. Treatments range from simple to in-depth therapy to carry on with a life free from hot flashes. Experiencing these hot flashes as night sweats? Check out how SHEEX can help you beat the heat at night and keep cool in our performance sleepwear for men and women, and our revolutionary cooling sheet sets.
