Remedies For Hot Flashes
August 10, 2009
A sensation of warmth that suddenly develops and spreads throughout the body, especially in the chest, head and neck is known as hot flash. Hot flash lasts for a short time span, from 30 seconds up to a few minutes.
It causes a lot of irritation. Hot flash is one of the common symptoms of menopause. Although, hot flash occurs primarily during menopause, but nearly 25 percent women hardly experience this menopausal symptom.
Hot flash causes
Drop in the estrogen level is believed to be responsible for hot flashes. It is believed that the change in the hormonal level, during menopause, probably disturbs the natural thermoregulation system of the body. Besides menopause, hot flashes are also the symptom of other diseases, such as carcinoid syndrome, certain infections and cancer. Sometimes hot flashes are the side effects of certain drugs.
Hot flash symptoms
Hot flashes are characterized by a sudden sensation of heat, which spreads across the body. The hot sensation is particularly intense on the chest and neck regions. The skin becomes red. Excessive perspiration occurs. The heart beat increases. Chills might sometimes accompany hot flashes. Women might experience hot flashes not only during menopause, but hot flashes might start few years before the onset of menopause. Typically, a woman experiences hot flashes for three to five years.
Other than irritation, caused by sudden feeling of warmth and excessive sweating, hot flashes are not harmful. However, hot flashes during the night, also known as night sweats, could prevent you from having a good night’s sleep. Home remedies are extremely effective in reducing hot flashes during menopause.
Hot flash home remedies
Certain fruits and vegetables contain chemicals that closely resemble human estrogen. Increasing intake of foods rich in plant estrogen could replenish estrogen lost during menopause. Soy, beans, lentils and chickpeas are good sources of plant estrogen.
To reduce hot flashes, drink a cup of sage tea twice every day. Avoid spicy foods, alcohol and caffeinated beverages, which are known to aggravate hot flashes. Always try to stay in a cool place. To reduce your irritation during hot flashes, wear clothes made of natural fibers. Regular deep breathing exercises could also decrease hot flashes.
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