SUFFERING FROM HOT FLASHES HERE IS A FEW TIPS TO STAYING COOL
Hot flashes can occur at any moment, one minute you're going about your
normal day, and the next you're drenched in sweat. Hot flashes are
arguably one of the worst parts of menopause, and they affect about 75% of
post-menopausal women and almost half of perimenopausal women. They come
on suddenly, can happen multiple times a day or week and may persist for
years.
Hot Flashes usually subside over time, here are some tips that can help
you in the meantime.
Dress Cool
Slight increases in the body's temperature can trigger hot flashes. By
dressing in layers you can shed your clothes when you feel a hot flash
coming on. You can also buy tank tops that are dry fit they can wisk away
moisture and heat from your skin. If hot flashes occur at night, try
lowering your thermostat or switching to cotton sheets and pajamas that
let your skin breathe.
Carry Peppermint or Wipes
Get a spray bottle and put five drops of peppermint oil and mix with a
little water.When the heat strikes, spray a little on your neck, chest or
forehead. The spray will evaporate and the peppermint oil will provide a
soothing, cooling effect (it will also make you smell fresh). Use a cool,
moist washcloth or wipes. Cooling Wipes can also help,
Change in Diet
What to eat: Try some
trail mix. Almonds and sunflower seeds are a great source of vitamin E,
which studies suggest may help with hot-flash symptoms. Plus, diets rich
in fruits, including strawberries, pineapple, melon, apricot and mango, as
well as Mediterranean diets have been shown to decrease the number of hot
flashes, especially compared to diets high in fat and sugar. A better diet
might help in other ways, too – weight loss has been shown to improve hot
flashes.
What not to eat: Avoid
hot and spicy foods, caffeinated drinks, alcohol and diet pills, which
have all been shown to trigger hot flashes.
Try a Supplement
Black cohosh supplements are a controversial hot-flash remedy that has
been shown to improve severity and frequency of hot flashes. However,
black cohosh may not be appropriate for people with liver disease. Always
talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement.
Relax
Yoga, meditation and other stress-reducing techniques could cut your hot
flashes in half, one study says. If you can feel one coming on, practicing
controlled breathing techniques and muscle relaxation regularly during a
hot flash could cut down how often you'll get them.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is associated with increased hot flashes. Cut your cancer risk,
improve your lung function and cool off all at once by kicking that
cigarette habit.
These are just a few tips for staying cool, always consult your doctor before trying any supplements.