Night sweats are simply hot flashes that occur while you are sleeping. They are common, though, and particularly annoying because they will often awaken you from a deep sleep. MayoClinic.com reports that three out of four women experience hot flashes. The flashes are caused by a shift in hormones that confuses the body's internal thermostat, causing it to ramp up the heat. The face and upper body turn red and hot and sweat pours out to cool the body down. Once the flash is over -- they can last anywhere from a couple of minutes to half an hour -- you will often feel chilled. There are several things you can try to diminish the severity of the flash.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy is usually recommended if the night sweats are interfering with your lifestyle. If you are losing sleep, feeling confused and have several debilitating night sweats per week, check with your doctor about replacing the hormones your body has stopped producing. Since HRT has significant side effects, you'll need to weigh the pros and cons with your health care provider.
Stay Cool
Even a modest change in your body temperature can trigger a night sweat, so keep your bedroom and your body cool as you go to sleep. Open a window, use a fan or sleep on top of the covers to maintain a lower body temperature. Have a glass of ice water by your bed and take a few sips of you are awakened by a night sweat. The cool drink may diminish the duration of the flash, getting you back to sleep sooner.
Black Cohosh
A daily dose of black cohosh may help tame the flashes, according to cardiologist and author Dr. Mehmet Oz. He suggests taking 40 mg of the herb daily to see if it helps you sleep better. Side effects can include allergic reactions, nausea and visual disturbances according to Drugs.com, which also warns that black cohosh should not be confused with blue cohosh, which can have toxic heart effects. Consult with your personal health care provider before beginning any supplement program.
