Hot flashes often occur due to hormonal changes in the body, often caused by menopause. According to MayoClinic.com, three in four women experience the condition as they go through menopause. Hot flashes are most likely due to the body’s withdrawal from estrogen during menopause, according to the medical clinic. Symptoms include a mild increase in warmth spreading over the face and upper body, increased sweating, increased heartbeat, flushed skin and face, as well as a cold, chilly feeling as the hot flash ends. Most hot flashes last a few minutes, though some women report hot flashes lasting as long as 30 minutes.
Step 1
Perform deep breathing exercises during the onset of a hot flash. HolisticOnline.com suggests taking six to eight deep breaths for about two minutes during a hot flash episode. Relaxing in a cool bath can also be helpful. Ensure clothing items are easy and quick to remove if a hot flash occurs. Wear loose jackets and sweaters over light layers. Keep a glass of ice water by your bedside in case you have a hot flash in the middle of the night.
Step 2
Contact a medical professional if hot flashes become extremely bothersome or interrupt daily activities such as work. Hot flashes may cause sleep disturbances throughout the night, and sleep medication may be helpful. Decreased sleep may lead to memory disturbances, anxiety and depression in some women, reports MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Discuss hormone therapy with a medical professional for more aggressive treatment of hot flashes. According to MayoClinic.com, estrogen therapy remains the most aggressive form of treatment; however, progesterone therapy may be an alternative treatment for some women. The smallest dose available is suggested to relieve symptoms. The hormone therapy should last for the shortest time period possible. Understand that estrogen therapy is not recommended for women who have a history of blood clots or breast cancer.
Step 4
Consider alternatives to hormone therapy, including antidepressants and other medications, suggests MedlinePlus. Medications such as paroxetine, fluoxetine and citalopram are commonly prescribed for depression; however, these drugs may decrease hot flashes. They are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to specifically treat hot flashes, yet some women find they relieve symptoms when hormone therapy is not an option. Side effects may result including increased weight, nausea, dizziness and possible sexual dysfunction. Other medications such as gabapentin, a seizure medication, and clonidine, a blood pressure medication, also may relieve symptoms of hot flashes. Discuss potential side effects and the pros and cons of taking alternative medications to treat hot flashes with your doctor.
Tips and Warnings
- Menopause and hot flashes are a natural transitioning point in a woman’s life. If the hot flashes are not disturbing day-to-day activities, treatment is generally not required. The occurrence of hot flashes generally last a few years. Menopause occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, reports MedlinePlus.
Things You'll Need
- Light clothing, which can be layered
- Hormone therapy
- Medications
