Women Suffering from Hot Flashes

Hot flashes ubiquitous in menopause forums and discussion and hyped by pharmaceutical companies -can be a frustrating aspect of womanhood. Women suffering from hot flashes that are seek simple explanations and answers need to look no further because here they'll find some solid information about hot flashes, their characteristics, their causes, and management.

About Hot Flashes

It is estimated that between 75-85% of American woman experience hot flashes at some point in their lives. But how can a woman know if what she is experiencing is actually a hot flash? Here are some characteristic symptoms of hot flashes:

• Sudden rush of heat that disappears quickly.
• Rapid heart rate or pulse.
• Nausea.
• Profuse perspiration.
• Headache.
• Chills.
• Flushed, pink, or warm skin.

Some women also experience hot flashes during their sleep. These are known as night sweats and they come with the same list of symptoms as hot flashes, although many women don't realize they've experienced one unless it is powerful enough to wake her or if they notice damp sheets in the morning from their perspiration.

Causes of Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are irrevocably linked to menopause and the hormonal changes that occur during these transition years. When hormones like estrogen fluctuate, the hypothalamus-the region of the brain responsible for body temperature regulation -reacts by causing a woman's body to actually heat up, like she is experiencing a mini-fever.

There are, however, a number of other potential causes of hot flashes in women. These include:

• Certain types of medications (eg. tamoxifen, raloxifene).
• Cancer.
• Diabetes.
• Obesity.
• Thyroid disease.
• Infection.
• Panic disorder.

Women who know or suspect that they may be experiencing hot flashes due to one of the above triggers, should talk to their doctors about possible treatment and management options.

Managing Hot Flashes

Hot flashes can be relatively simple to manage and women have a variety of options to help them manage their hot flashes naturally.

• Cool atmosphere
While installing some mood lighting and incense might do the trick for some women, others might need to keep a small fan handy, or crank up the air conditioner, or open some windows. Having an excuse to keep the refrigerator stocked with refreshing beverages is an added bonus.

• Breezy clothing
No more polyester and spandex. Fabrics made with natural fabrics -like cotton, silk, or linen -have a breathable quality that can prevent women from getting overheated and help them feel cooler if a hot flash should arise.

• Leisurely pace
Keeping the heart rate down has also been shown to help women prevent frequent or intense hot flashes. So, women should leave some extra time so that they aren't running to catch the bus or whirling into a meeting at the last minute.

More Information on Women & Hot Flashes

Women who want to take full control over their bodies, including managing hot flashes, have many options. A combination of the following types of treatment for hot flashes can give women that extra support they need:

• Lifestyle changes.
• Alternative medicines.
• Prescription drugs.

Women should explore these options and talk to their doctors about the most effective route to relief.

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