Dealing with hot flashes can be extremely uncomfortable, and it can get in the way of your quality of life. For most women, hot flashes occur during menopause due to extreme hormonal changes. If you’re dealing with hot flashes, read on to learn more about them, how long they last, and what you can do to lessen them.
Hot Flash Basics
A hot flash typically comes on out of nowhere and you’ll suddenly feel a strong presence of heat on the face, neck, and chest. For many women, hot flashes occur at night while they’re sleeping. These hot flashes can last anywhere from a few months to several years. For each individual hot flash, you could feel this way for just a few seconds, or it can last several minutes. Some research shows that overweight women tend to experience them more frequently. If you get a hot flash overnight, you might wake up drenched in sweat which can affect your quality and duration of sleep.
What do Hot Flashes Feel Like?
When you have a hot flash, your face will become red or flushed. You may also experience a rapid heart rate and a mild tingling sensation in your fingers. Perspiration is another common symptom of a hot flash. These annoying flashes are usually caused by fluctuations in your hormones, and there’s not much you can do to prepare or prevent them. However, you can avoid certain triggers like eating spicy foods, consuming too much caffeine, or being in a hot environment. Alcohol, stress, and smoking are other triggers.
Remedies and Solutions
To get relief from hot flashes, try to stay as cool as possible and make sure the temperature of the room is comfortable. Manage your stress through meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises. Some herbal supplements that contain progesterone can help reduce the symptoms of menopause. Just be sure you to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement routine. Some women choose to use hormone replacement therapy or nerve block injections to lessen the effects of hot flashes. Always consult with your OBGYN if your hot flashes are affecting your comfort level or quality of life so they can help you find a solution that will work for you.
Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN in Stockbridge, GA wants you and your family to thrive. For any questions or concerns regarding pregnancy, parenting or related issues, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 770-474-1919.
