What can you do about hot flushes?

Lifestyle Changes:

1. Dress in Layers: Wear loose, breathable clothing that you can easily remove if you start to feel hot.

2. Stay Cool: Keep the room temperature cool, use a fan or air conditioner, and take cool baths or showers.

3. Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, which can trigger hot flushes.

4. Regular Exercise: Exercise can help improve circulation and relieve stress, both of which can contribute to hot flushes.

5. Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, meditation, or mindfulness.

6. Avoid Smoking: Smoking can worsen hot flushes.

7. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can worsen hot flushes.

8. Reduce Caffeine and Alcohol: Caffeinated beverages and alcoholic drinks can trigger hot flushes.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies:

1. Herbal Remedies: Certain herbs, like black cohosh, red clover, and ginseng, have been traditionally used to relieve hot flushes. Consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements.

2. Acupuncture: Acupuncture has shown some promise in reducing hot flushes, but more research is needed.

3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help manage the stress and anxiety that may contribute to hot flushes.

Medical Treatment:

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): This is the most effective medical treatment for hot flushes. HRT involves taking estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone to replace the hormones lost during menopause.

2. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs, commonly used as antidepressants, can also be effective in managing hot flushes.

3. Gabapentin: This medication, often used to treat seizures and neuropathy, has also been shown to help with hot flushes.

4. Clonidine: This medication, typically used for high blood pressure, can also help reduce hot flushes.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or taking any medications or supplements.