Hot flushes – why and what can I do about them?

«Suddenly I start sweating and get really hot. It’s very unpleasant, especially at work.»

«When you drink hot drinks or enter a warm room, your internal thermostat may suddenly shoot up.»

Today we want to look at hot flushes, which affect seven out of ten women during the menopause. On average, women experience hot flushes for around seven years, but they can last much longer. We’ll take a closer look at what hot flushes are, why they occur and how you can deal with them.

Hot flushes: The most common challenge of the menopause

Hot flushes, also known as ‹vasomotor symptoms›, are one of the most common symptoms of the menopause. They are characterised by sudden flushes of heat, which are particularly noticeable in the face, neck and upper body. These episodes can be accompanied by heavy sweating and an accelerated heartbeat. For many women, hot flushes are not only unpleasant but also stressful.

Causes of hot flushes

The exact cause of hot flushes is complex and can vary from woman to woman. A major player in this symptom is the hormonal change that occurs during the menopause. Oestrogen levels in the body drop, which can cause the thermoregulation system to become unbalanced. Hot flushes are triggered as a reaction to this.

What can you do about hot flushes?

There are various approaches to managing hot flushes and minimising their effects. Here are some options:

1. keep an eye on your diet: Some foods and drinks can exacerbate hot flushes. Hot spices, coffee and alcohol should be reduced. Make sure you eat a balanced diet.
2. the right clothing: Wear lightweight and breathable clothing that absorbs sweat well. Wearing layers allows you to cool down quickly when a hot flush occurs.
3. stress management: Stress can make hot flushes worse. Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation and breathing exercises can help to reduce stress and alleviate symptoms.
4. exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flushes. Try to incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week into your daily routine.
5. dietary supplements: There are now a number of supplements, such as hops extract, that can help with mild to moderate hot flushes. Our (The Women Circle) MENO HEAT – body cooling is our product that helps you with hot flushes.
6. hormone therapy: If your hot flushes are very severe and significantly affect your everyday life, hormone replacement therapy may be considered. Talk to your doctor about this. This therapy can help to balance the hormonal imbalances and alleviate the symptoms.

Different views

There are many different views on how best to treat hot flushes. Some women favour natural approaches and herbal remedies, while others consider hormone replacement therapies. It’s important to note that every woman is unique, and choosing the right treatment depends on individual needs and preferences.

Final Thoughts Hot flashes can undoubtedly be a challenging phase of menopause, but you are not alone. There are numerous ways to deal with them and find relief. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to explore the best options for you. Remember that every woman is unique and you will find ways to cope with this phase of your life.

In our next issue, back on Saturday, we will cover more aspects of menopause and women’s health. Stay informed and feel comfortable during this special phase of your life.

If you need personalised advice or support on your journey through the menopause, contact The Women Circle here.

«During the menopause, your body temperature is sometimes high, sometimes moody.»

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