Hot flashes are common occurrences for women during menopause. In the years leading up to menopause over half of the women experience hot flashes and 75 to 80 percent of women in post-menopause have hot flashes, according to the website "34 Menopause Symptoms." These are often uncomfortable sensations of intense heat and flushing that can be embarrassing as well.
Theories/Speculation
According to the North American Menopause Society, the exact cause of hot flashes is not known. Researchers speculate that a drop in estrogen sends a message to the part of the brain that controls temperature, the hypothalamus. Even though a woman is not too warm, the hypothalamus starts a chain reaction of cooling procedures. The blood vessels near the skin's surface dilate, which causes the typical flushed appearance of the face and neck. Perspiration may also be triggered as a measure to reduce body heat.
Dietary Research
Some foods and herbs are made up of chemicals called phytoestrogens which have weak estrogen activity. Isoflavones are phytoestrogens in soy products such as soy milk, soybean, soya flour, tofu and tempeh. Chinese Medicine News reports that women who supplement their diet with 60 mg of isoflavone have 57 percent fewer hot flashes, based on a study in Sweden with 60 postmenopausal women.
Relaxation Research
Women have found relief from hot flashes with mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques, according to research at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine. There is a direct correlation between stress and hot flashes. Women saw a 40 percent decrease in the severity of hot flashes after an 11-week training program learning techniques of relaxation such as deep breathing and yoga, in the study published in the September 2006 issue of "Menopause."
Avoidance of Triggers
Another method of therapy is to avoid hot flash triggers. Hot, spicy foods and drinks can sometimes trigger a hot flash, according to MayoClinic.com. A warm room or hot weather can be the trigger as well. It is helpful to use air conditioning or fans to keep rooms cool, especially at night while sleeping. Women who have hot flashes can try wearing light fabrics and cool clothing. Some women use cold packs placed under their pillow to stay cool during the night.
Considerations
Menopause is a normal transition for a woman and is not considered a disease. However, it is best to check with a medical doctor to confirm menopause and discuss any concerns.
