Hormones continue to affect the body long after puberty ends. As women enter perimenopause, which can begin around age 40, and go through menopause itself, fluctuating levels of progesterone and estrogen can cause physical symptoms. One of the most notable symptoms is hot flashes, which are rapidly occurring waves of heat within the body that occur and subside relatively quickly. They’re often accompanied by flushing, sweating, or a racing heart, and can be followed by chills.
Hot flashes are common. They affect up to seventy-five percent of women whose bodies are anywhere in the process of menopause. Doctors don’t know exactly what causes them. The good news? Hot flashes will decrease in intensity and frequency after menopause and until then, managing them is possible.
Hot flash coping tips
- Track each hot flash. What events led up to each one? Notice if certain things, like spicy food or wearing a particular fabric, seemed to make it worse.
- Keep cool air circulating. This is especially important in the bedroom if nighttime hot flashes have become a problem.
- Stop smoking. It’s a scientific fact: women who smoke are 1.5 times more likely than non-smokers to have hot flashes.
- Cut down on coffee and other caffeinated beverages. Caffeine can trigger hot flashes because it raises the heart rate and quickens blood flow throughout the body.
- Dress in easily removable layers. While this doesn’t remedy the physical symptoms, it makes coping easier and more comfortable.
- Reduce alcohol consumption. That flush from a glass of red wine can quickly turn into a hot flash.
- Avoid the heat. Hot baths, hot drinks, and hot weather may bring on hot flashes. By tracking what leads up to individual hot flashes, you can figure out which activities might need to be temporarily shelved or enjoyed in moderation.
- Amp up your water intake, since hot flashes cause sweating and excessive sweating can be dehydrating.
Your healthcare provider can provide the best strategies for managing hot flashes, potentially including hormone replacement therapy. The providers at Roseman Medical Group are experts in patient-centered care for all stages of life. Call (702) 463-4040 to make an appointment.
