TWC #014: Do hot flushes get worse in summer?

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Today we are answering a common question that many of you have asked:
Do hot flushes get worse in summer?
This summer is particularly hot and many people are suffering from the heat.
Hot flushes, these sudden outbreaks of heat and sweating, can occur with varying frequency, intensity and duration in every woman. The causes are not yet fully understood, but there are indications that hormone fluctuations, in particular a drop in oestrogen levels, play an important role. When oestrogen levels fall, the hypothalamus, the body’s own thermostat, reacts more sensitively to slight temperature fluctuations, which leads to the familiar symptoms of hot flushes.
Now we come to the burning question:
does the summer heat make hot flushes worse?
There is no definitive answer, but for some women, heat or physical exertion can trigger hot flashes. A nationwide survey in the United States found that some women experience more or worse hot flashes in the summer. Seasonal variations associated with the summer and winter solstices have also been observed, with hot flashes preceded by an increase in night sweats. However, it is important to note that these findings are not universal, as some women report consistent symptoms throughout the year.
If you’re struggling with hot flushes in the sweltering heat, don’t worry! We have a few tips to help you stay cool and comfortable:
Focus on cooling measures
The bedroom in particular should be kept cool. You also have other ways to create «coolness».
- Try cooling bed linen made from breathable fabrics such as bamboo and cooling mattress toppers or blankets.
- Use a fan or consider a hydro-powered bed cooling system to ensure a consistent, cool temperature.
- Place a cold compress on your forehead before going to bed.
- Try slow, deep breathing exercises and consider acupuncture or acupressure to reduce the severity and frequency of hot flushes.
Although results may vary, these practices have shown promise for some women.
Watch what you eat
Certain foods can trigger hot flushes. Therefore, you should avoid them if possible. These include:
- Alcohol: e.g. red wine; if alcohol, then choose white wine
- Caffeine: e.g. coffee; switch to decaffeinated coffee
- Hot spices: e.g. pepper; try to cook more with herbs
Other foods can help you deal with hot flushes. These include:
- Linseed: It contains phytoestrogens and can help with hot flushes. Make sure to eat ground flaxseed so that it can develop its full effect.
- Soya: e.g. tofu; these contain isoflavones which can relieve hot flushes by mimicking natural oestrogen. Organic, fermented soya products are particularly beneficial.
Dietary supplements can also help
Dietary supplements have been shown to relieve hot flushes, although it can take a few weeks to see results. We have utilised our 20+ years of experience in the dietary supplement industry to develop a new vegan high-dose dietary supplement product specifically for hot flushes. This will be launched on the Swiss market in autumn. If you are interested, you are welcome to send us an e-mail to «hello@TheWomenCircle.ch» «Keyword: TWC hot flush product» and we will inform you when the time comes.
Hormone therapy
Low-dose contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can regulate hormone levels and relieve hot flushes, which is a relief for many women. We looked at this option in our Meno Health Information #009.
Alternative treatments
If hormonal therapies are not suitable or preferred, there are also alternative options. We have looked at two of these in Meno Health Information #10 and #11.
Remember that menopause is different for every woman and what works for one woman may not work for another. It’s important to find the strategies and treatments that fit your specific needs.
As always, we are here to support you every step of the way. Stay positive, take care of yourself and know that you are not alone on this journey.
Enjoy the summer despite the heat and see you next time!
Get in touch if you need help. We are here for you.
Joëlle & Adrian
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