Menopause is the period when women cease menstruation, which leads to fluctuating levels of female hormones. Perimenopause, known as menopausal transition, can start years before your last period, which occurs, on average, at age 51. Hot flashes, probably the most well-known of menopause symptoms, involve a sensation of heat throughout the body, flushed skin, mild to profuse sweating, shivering and night sweats. Many women find the heavy sweating uncomfortable and embarrassing. The treatment for hot flashes depends on personal preference and the severity of the symptom.
Lifestyle Changes
The National Institutes of Health recommends lifestyle changes to alleviate the discomfort of hot flashes. Dress comfortably to counteract the sensation of heat and lessen sweating. Try sleeping in a cool room. Avoid consuming spicy foods, hot drinks and caffeine, all of which can increase sweating. Learn deep breathing, meditation or other stress reduction techniques..
Antidepressants and Gabapentin
Antidepressants used in clinical trials have reduced the number and severity of hot flashes, including sweating, for some women, according to the National Institutes of Health. SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, in particular are effective for treating hot flashes. SSRIs can cause mood changes and changes in your sex drive. Gabapentin, also known as neurontin and prescribed to epilepsy patients, is sometimes prescribed to treat and prevent hot flashes in menopausal women, especially night sweats. Use of gabapentin during the day can cause lethargy and dizziness.
Menopausal Hormonal Treatment
Menopausal hormonal treatment, also known as hormone replacement therapy or HRT, uses hormones---such as estrogen, progesterone and progestin products---to alleviate the symptoms of menopause. The form of the hormone prescribed depends on the symptom. Women may receive estrogen in pills or tablets, injections, patches, skin gels or creams. Hormone therapy is used for several menopause symptoms, but has been shown to be very effective at treating hot flashes. The Hormone Foundation warns that hormone therapy combined with progestin increases the risk for breast cancer. Women who take estrogen with progesterone are at increased risk of blood clots and uterine cancer.
Phytoestrogens
Phytoestrogens are estrogen-like substances found in some plants, according to WomensHealth.gov. Soy, which contains phytoestrogens and is consumed in food products and supplements, helps with mild hot flashes and the resulting sweating. Other plants with phytoestrogens are black cohosh, dong quai, red clover, valerian root and wild yam. WomensHealth.gov cautions that soy products are harmful for women diagnosed with estrogen-dependent breast cancer. Pills and powders are concentrated forms of the product and, as such, carry some risk for all users.
