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How to End Menopause Hot Flashes

Menopause is a natural part of the aging process for all women. On average it begins at age 51, but can begin as early as the 30s or as late as the 60s. This time of life marks the end of fertility as the body ceases to produce the female hormones that control the menstrual cycle. Many women experience at least some symptoms of menopause as a result of the change in hormone levels. One of the most prevalent symptoms is uncomfortable hot flashes. While hot flashes cannot be cured, they can be controlled.

Things You'll Need

  • A fan
  • Layered clothing
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Instructions

  1. Remedies

    • 1

      Stay cool. Even slight change in body temperature can spark a hot flash. Lower the temperature in your home or work environment, if possible. Dress in layers and remove outer garments if you begin to get too warm. Use a personal fan to keep air circulating around you. Keep a cold drink handy to sip on if you feel a hot flash coming on. Take cool showers instead of warm baths.

    • 2

      Watch what you eat. Alcohol, caffeinated drinks and certain hot or spicy foods can trigger hot flashes in some women. Once you discover if certain foods spark a hot flash, take them off of your grocery list.

    • 3

      Quit smoking. Smoking is linked to an increase in the incidence of hot flashes. It also contributes to heart and lung disease and is detrimental to your overall health.

    • 4

      Reduce stress. Breathe deeply. Deep, paced abdominal breathing for 15 minutes twice per day can help reduce the effects of hot flashes. Practicing meditation or other stress reduction techniques may help to alleviate the effects of hot flashes and also help with sleep disturbances that are common during menopause.

    • 5

      Seek professional, medical help. If self-help methods do not control hot flashes it is possible that your physician can provide relief. Certain medications originally formulated for other conditions, including antidepressants, high blood pressure medications, and seizure medications, have proven effective in providing some relief for hot flashes.

    • 6

      Consider hormone therapy. Estrogen therapy is the most effective means available for treating hot flashes. However, there are risks associated with this option, such as developing heart disease. Also, its use is controversial for women who have suffered breast cancer.

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