3 Simple Ways To Reduce Hot Flashes During Menopasue

If you are nearing or are actually in menopause, then you may be coping with hot flashes and night sweats. These symptoms are two of the common symptoms of menopause and are caused by declines in estrogen levels. While hormone replacement therapy can help increase your estrogen stores to relieve hot flashes, it is not recommended for everyone.

If you are finding it difficult to cope with hot flashes and night sweats, see a women's health physician such as those with Johnson  City Ob-Gyn for further evaluation and treatment. In the meantime, consider these three strategies that will help keep you cool during your menopausal years:

Limit Caffeine Intake

Drinking coffee, tea, or cola or consuming chocolate can increase the frequency and intensity of your hot flashes and night sweats. Caffeine can raise your metabolic rate and blood pressure, which can then subsequently cause your body's internal furnace to kick into high gear.

If you consume large quantities of caffeine on a daily basis, do not abruptly stop drinking caffeinated beverages or eating chocolate. Doing so may cause withdrawal symptoms such as migraine headaches, nausea, anxiety, and an increase in sweating and hot flashes. Instead, gradually cut down, as this will help you avoid adverse reactions related to quitting caffeine "cold turkey."

Enjoy Soy

Adding soy-rich foods to your daily meals can also help reduce the incidence of hot flashes. Soy mimics the effects of estrogen and may even be as effective as hormone replacement therapy in the management of hot flashes and night sweats.

Because the effects of soy act like estrogen, it may not be safe for some women. Certain gynecological cancers such as those affecting the breast, endometrium, and uterus are fueled by estrogen, and the consumption of soy may increase your risk for these malignancies. If you have a past history of gynecological cancers, speak to your physician before adding large amounts of soy to your diet. 

Don't Smoke

If you smoke, try quitting or at least cutting down. Smoking can cause capillary damage while speeding up your metabolic rate. The combination of capillary damage and nicotine inhalation can make your hot flashes and night sweats more intense.

If you are unable to quit smoking or cut down on your own, talk to your doctor. He or she can recommend effective treatment options to help you with your cravings. These may include nicotine replacement patches or gum, oral medications, and hospital-based smoking cessation support groups.

If you are experiencing hot flashes or night sweats as a result of menopause, consider the above strategies. In the meantime, make an appointment with a women's health physician who will recommend the most effective treatment options for your personal situation.