How to Live Comfortably With Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause. Approximately 75% of women experience them during their menopausal transition. Hot flashes last from two to five minutes. They are not harmful, but can be aggravating and uncomfortable.

Things You'll Need

• Clothes Made From Natural Fibers
• Ginseng
• Vitamin E

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Instructions

• 1

  Try taking vitamin E. Some say it reduces the intensity of hot flashes. The recommended dosage is 400 to 600 units daily.

• 2

  Consider a ginseng supplement. Ginseng is an herb that may be helpful in reducing hot flashes since it contains plant estrogen, called phytoestrogen.

• 3

  Ask your gynecologist about a prescription for drugs that prevents your blood vessels from large contraction-dilation fluctuations. Beta-blockers, like propanolol, 40 to 80 mg. a day, can combat hot flashes in some women, but not all.

• 4

  Consider hormone replacement therapy or HRT, to replace your declining levels of estrogen, thereby alleviating your menopausal symptoms.

• 5

  Take tepid baths. Hot water predisposes you to hot flashes.

• 6

  Choose clothes made from natural fibers, and dress in layers. Synthetic fibers have a tendency to trap body heat. As soon as you begin to feel a hot flash, remove layers of clothes.

• 7

  Avoid large meals, hot beverages and alcohol, if you notice that they trigger hot flashes.

• 8

  Try to exercise every day. Many women who are daily walkers report a reduction in hot flashes.