Hot Flashes in Menopause: What You Need to Know and How to Get Relief
Hot flashes are one of the most common and frustrating symptoms women face during perimenopause and menopause. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) claim at least one-third of women experience more than 10 hot flashes a day! For many women, they can last anywhere from 4 to 10 years after they begin.
But what exactly are hot flashes, and what can you do to get them under control?
What Do Hot Flashes Feel Like?
Hot flashes are sudden, intense feelings of heat that are can be accompanied by:
Flushing in the face, neck, or chest
Palpitations or a rapid heartbeat
Sweating, sometimes soaking through clothing
Anxiety or a sense of panic
These symptoms can be especially disruptive when they occur at night (night sweats), leading to poor sleep and increased stress levels.
Non-Hormonal Ways to Manage Hot Flashes
The good news is that not every woman needs medication to manage hot flashes. Many start by making simple changes in their daily routines, such as:
Dressing in layers so clothes can be removed when overheating
Using a small portable fan at home or at work
Avoiding triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, or alcohol
Practicing stress reduction through yoga, meditation, or deep breathing
Exploring natural foods like soy or tofu, which contain phytoestrogens (plant compounds that mimic estrogen in the body)
However, it’s important to note that while foods and supplements may help some women, they aren’t regulated like prescription medications, and there may not be scientific studies to support their effectiveness across the board.
When to Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
If lifestyle changes just aren’t cutting it, you’re not alone. Many women find that their symptoms continue to interfere with their daily lives. That’s where hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a safe and effective option.
HRT works by replenishing the estrogen your body is no longer producing, helping to reduce hot flashes and night sweats, among other symptoms.
Before starting HRT, it’s essential to evaluate your health history, hormone levels, and risk factors. Not every woman is a candidate for HRT, but for many, it can be a life-changing option when used appropriately under medical supervision.
Let’s Talk About Your Options
Hot flashes may be common, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer in silence. Whether you’re just starting perimenopause or have been dealing with symptoms for years, help is available.
We offer personalized consultations to review your symptoms, as well as lab work to determine whether HRT or other strategies are the right path for you.
Contact us today for a free consult and take the first step toward getting your life, and your body, back under control!