Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Triggers and Causes of Hot Flashes in Menopause

The causes of hot flashes are believed to be decreasing levels of estrogen or other naturally occurring hormonal changes, unique to a woman. The symptoms of hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause are more severe in women who have had their ovaries surgically removed, supporting the belief that loss of hormones produced by the ovaries are causes of hot flashes. There are certain triggers that can increase the severity and frequency, even though they are not the actual causes of hot flashes.
Hot flashes are considered a "vasomotor" symptom, because dilation of the blood vessels and changes in circulation are involved. For many years estrogen replacement therapy was the most commonly recommended treatment for hot flashes, but because of the health risks associated with this form of treatment, it is not used nearly as often.
The symptoms of hot flash typically include excessive warmth in the chest, neck and face. The hands and feet may feel chilled at the same time, once the heat has subsided a woman often feels chilled all over. Increased perspiration under the arms, on the chest, neck and forehead may occur.
When a hot flash occurs at night, usually referred to as night sweats, it can interrupt a woman's sleep, leading to insomnia, decreasing energy levels and overall sense of well being. A recent study indicates that the majority of peri-menopausal (a term referring to the time "around" menopause) women do not feel that symptoms of hot flash affect their quality of life as much as emotional changes and mood swings, but mood swings sometimes trigger hot flashes. When a person is angry or frustrated, body temperature raises and rising body temperature is one of the symptoms of hot flash.
Sometimes referred to as hot flushes, these sudden changes in body temperature do not threaten a woman's health. No medical treatment is required, unless they happen frequently, are severe or disruptive to a woman's life. The causes of hot flashes are natural changes that happen in a woman's body as she ages, so they are nothing to worry about, but their is relief.
Most women can get relief from the symptoms of hot flash by using an herbal supplement called black cohosh. This herb was used historically by Native American healers to correct symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, to help regulate menstrual cycles, as a diuretic and a mild sedative. Research has shown that women get as much relief from hot flashes when using black cohosh as they do from estrogen replacement. It is highly recommended for women who can not risk estrogen replacement therapy, because of previous cancers or other concerns. Because, the Women's Health Initiative found that the health benefits of hormone replacement therapy do not outweigh the risks, most doctors no longer recommend this treatment unless numerous symptoms are present and are severely impairing a woman's ability to function, her relationships or her quality of life. Black cohosh, on the other hand, is being recommended more and more.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Treatments For Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

It's the classic symptom of menopause: the heat on your face and upper body, sweating, and rapid heartbeat known to menopausal woman everywhere as hot flashes or, the nighttime version, night sweats. While some women only experience a little warmth, others women's hot flashes are accompanied by nausea, dizziness, muscle weakness, headaches, and a feeling of anxiety. Just because they're common, though, that doesn't mean you have to put up with them. Understanding the causes and treatments for hot flashes and night sweats can help you deal with this uncomfortable symptom.
Causes of hot flashes and night sweats
While just about every woman entering menopause knows what a hot flash is, not many can tell you exactly what causes hot flashes. As with most menopause symptoms, hormone fluctuations are the underlying cause, but it's little more complicated than that.
Estrogen regulates not only your reproductive cycle, but also your body temperature. This hormone, along with testosterone (yes, even in women), affects the hypothalamus, the segment that regulates your body temperature. Without the normal amount of estrogen, your hypothalamus gets the signal that you're too warm. Your body then starts doing it's best to cool you off by getting your heart pumping in order to increase blood flow to the skin, where the excess he can be let off. That leaves you a pounding pulse and sweating like it's 110 degrees out.
Treatment for hot flashes
The good news is that there are plenty of treatments for hot flashes. The place to start is with what you eat and drink. Stay away from caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and spicy foods as much as possible. Decreasing the fat in your diet may also help although the effects are slow to show up. You might also want to try increasing the amount of vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids in your diet by eating more nuts, olive oil, and fish like salmon and trout.
Herbs for hot flashes
Natural remedies for hot flashes are also available. Herbs for hot flashes include licorice root, black cohosh, red raspberry leaves, chasteberry (Vitex), spearmint, motherwort, and wild yams
Evening primrose oil can also help stave off hot flashes, but this may only be because of the essential fatty acids it provides.
Products for hot flashes
If adjusting your diet and using herbal remedies doesn't help, consider a product for hot flashes that includes natural progesterone. These products are made from plants rich in phytoestrogens (plant estrogens) and have been shown to help some 80% of women who use them. Besides helping with hot flashes and night sweats, products like these have also been shown to lessen other menopause symptoms like insomnia and loss of libido.
With time, the intensity of menopause hot flashes decreases and eventually they'll stop altogether. That said, in around 30% of women, hot flashes can keep happening for years before and during menopause. If you'd rather not put up with regular hot flashes and night sweats, but aren't willing to resort to traditional medications, look into some of the herbal remedies or progesterone creams available.

Monday, February 21, 2011

Hot Flashes and Panic Attacks

In our body a gland named hypothalamus acts as a channel between the thalamus and the pituitary gland. It acts as a regulator and controls the temperature of our bodies. It regulates the body temperature with the help of a hormone named estrogen in case of women. Before menopause this particular hormone in women decreases and this problematizes the normal working of the hypothalamus which results in a rise in body temperature and hot flashes in women. Hot flashes can be compared to panic attacks though there are certain differences. Hot flashes and attacks are characterized by symptoms such as rapid breathing, excessive sweating, increased heart rate, nausea, headaches etc.
Causes
There are different factors which cause anxiety attacks such as pressure at work, emotional stress, lack of sleep, unhealthy life style, depression, thyroid imbalances, chemical imbalances etc. Once it is realized what are causing it, it will be easier to cure anxiety attacks.
How to deal with
When an attack occurs one should not try to suppress the process but go through the entire process. This way one can learn how to tackle it when it happens next time. As the most famous cause for panic attacks are phobias people tend to avoid it but when they can not avoid it this causes the panic attack to aggravate. The same thing happens in case of stress, depression etc. the best way to deal with it is to try relaxation. Avoiding focus on the cause of the problem and shifting ones focus on something else can help.
How to treat
To cure anxiety attacks the best way is to lead a healthy lifestyle and maintain a proper well balanced diet. The key is to avoid inorganic foods and include lots of organic fresh green vegetables and fruits in ones diet. Fried and oily foods and products rich in caffeine should be excluded from diet. Cigarettes and alcohol should be strictly avoided. To treat bouts of anxiety attacks one should follow strict regimen of workouts and exercises. Meditation and yoga are great ways to deal with these types of attacks.
Generally medications are avoided in the case of panic attacks as medicines only relieve the pain for the time being and the person tends to get depended on the medicines. Cognitive behavioral hormone therapy is a therapy which teaches one how to treat panic attacks and deal with its symptoms. The best way to cure anxiety attacks completely is to be in control of yourself and not to let the tension of having another panic attack take over you. If you are in perfect control panic attacks can be easily left at bay.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Methods To Control Hot Flashes

A hot flash makes a woman feel like her upper body is suddenly becoming warm, but particularly so from the neck up. You will find this condition mostly in women who are in menopause, especially perimenopause. They can also be caused by certain types of medication or habits. Hot flashes are often accompanied by other symptoms including sweating, rapid heartbeat, nausea, flushed appearance and dizzy spells.
Sometimes hot flashes are accompanied by sweating in the middle of the night. These can be so extreme as to wake you up during a deep sleep and end up leading to sleep problems. A hot flash can last from thirty seconds to a few minutes. They usually stick around for about 5 years but in some cases can last up to 10 years.
The exact cause of hot flashes has not been discovered, though there is ongoing research. Many specialists believe that it is caused by the female hormone estrogen. When this chemical drops it is suspected that it directly affects the hypothalamus, which is responsible for regulating body temperature.
Because of this the body releases certain chemicals and the blood vessels in the skin begin to dilate. As the temperature of the body increases a reaction occurs and you begin sweating in order to cool down.
It is important to make sure that your diet and lifestyle habits are in order. This can go a long way in helping to take care of your hot flashes. Make sure that you try and drink 8 glasses of water each day and stay as cool as you can. Don't be cheap about the air conditioning and use a fan if you need it. Try to exercise as often as you can and stay away from cigarettes. Stop eating food that is hot or spicy. It is also important to stay away from drinks that contain caffeine and alcohol.
Relaxation techniques are very important when it comes to dealing with hot flashes. If you have time try to attend some yoga or meditation classes. You can also do these in the comfort of your own home but classes tend to keep one more motivated. Practice breathing deeply whenever you are feeling overstressed.
Several herbs have also been found to lessen the symptoms of hot flashes. Black Cohosh and Pasque Flower are known to keep the female body in top health during menopause. If you are unsure about how much to take or which is better then talk with a naturopath in your town or city. Also, make sure that your doctor knows that you are using herbs as part of your treatment plan.

Help Alleviate Common Hot Flashes

Hot flashes, among the most frequent menopause symptoms, that may be referred to as unexpected feeling of warmth on the face and upper body, particularly the head and neck areas. Hot flashes are generally encountered by women who are going through menopause, mainly perimenopause, nevertheless it may be also caused by lifestyle and some specific medications. Hot flashes could possibly be coupled with other menopause symptoms which often involve perspiration, a flushed appearance with red, blotchy skin, dizziness, headache, rapid heartbeat and nausea.
Nearly all women may suffer from this common symptom that are coupled with night sweats which could wake them up, disturb their sleep and bring about trouble sleeping. This can happen at night time and can last for 30 seconds to several minutes. Nearly all women may go through hot flashes for five years yet others may go through it for 10 years. Mainly because dealing with this symptom is unbearable, almost all women look for natural menopause treatments that can offer menopause relief.
The exact cause of hot flashes is still not known. Medical research shows that these occurrences are a result of a drop in the level of the female hormone, estrogen within the body which has an immediate effect on the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is the portion of the brain that is certainly responsible for controlling temperature which starts overproducing heat. Due to this, the body temperature increases and chemicals are released that causes the blood vessels in your skin to widen or dilate and lead to a hot flash.
Fortunately, help are out there that may give menopause relief. Diet alterations and lifestyle modifications can certainly make a huge difference in eliminating such symptoms. Keeping yourself as cool as you can can ease hot flashes by drinking lots of water all through the day, using a fan or air conditioner, and dressing up in light layers or using light clothes. Increase your physical activity by having adequate and daily exercise. Give up smoking and avoid alcohol. Keep an eye on your eating routine; be sure to keep away from hot and spicy foods and drinks that have caffeine.
Knowing ways to relax is extremely important so that you can efficiently deal with this symptom and some other menopause symptoms. Learn about stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, deep breathing and meditation. If perhaps you're experiencing moderate to severe hot flashes, there are numerous treatments and medications which might be prescribed by doctors like estrogen therapy, progesterone therapy, antidepressants or blood pressure lowering medication. Nevertheless the most effective treatment method for hot flashes is the Estrogen therapy.
Among the list of treatments for menopause symptoms, the usage of natural remedies is the most dependable and gentlest option when compared to utilizing prescribed medications. Natural menopause treatment can certainly help support a woman's overall health and well being during perimenopause and menopause. Natural remedies for menopause are made of herbal ingredients that decrease common hot flashes related to the change of life, aid stimulate healthy sleep patterns and supports good disposition and day to day calmness.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Male Menopause Hot Flashes Explained

Sometimes there are things that may go wrong with our bodies as we get a little bit older and we may not know what's going on. One thing that is very established is that women go through a hormonal change as they reach a certain age. The steep drop-off in the production of these hormones stops their ovaries from working and releasing an egg on a regular basis. It also causes a lot of emotional and physical problems that she will have to deal with for a number of years. What happens, however, if you are a male and you are experiencing symptoms that are similar to what women experience at this time? It may be a matter of you having male menopause.
The symptoms that are experienced during male menopause are very similar to what females experience in the same time. You might be having male menopause hot flashes, a lack of sexual desire and a decrease in energy. Other symptoms include an inability to concentrate, tender breasts and a loss of pubic hair. Most of these conditions can be treated in one way or another but one of the most difficult to handle are male menopause hot flashes. Of course, they can be handled the same way that females handle the situation but all too often, they don't know what to do about it either.
Male menopause hot flashes might just be something that you have to deal with but you can reduce their effects to a certain extent by reducing the overall effects that are felt from your menopause like symptoms. Since male menopause is a drop in your testosterone levels, you may be able to get some relief by building the levels of your testosterone again. You can do this through testosterone therapy from your doctor or you can try and build up your testosterone naturally through eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise and rest along with some natural supplementation.
Although your efforts may not completely get rid of all of your male menopause hot flashes, you will be healthier as a result. As your testosterone levels continue to rebound you will, no doubt, start to feel better because the natural balance in your body will be returning to you again. Remember, you're never too old to begin rebuilding the testosterone that your body is now lacking.

Facts You Need To Know For Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are most often accompanied by menopause which is something that is inevitable for all women. But the symptoms that often accompany it are not. While many choose to use hormone treatments among other, natural remedies for hot flashes are an excellent alternative for many women.
The concerns of HRT greatly increasing the risk of breast cancer only serves to increase stress levels at a time when many women are already suffering from the changes brought on by menopause. While HRT may well be the best choice for some, the following home remedies are often very helpful in relieving symptoms while supporting your health.
Natural Remedies for Hot Flashes And the 7 Facts You Need to know for Cool Relief
  1. Menopause and it`s related symptoms such as hot flashes, is not a disease, but a natural part of a woman`s life. It need not be something to fear and beyond the initial symptoms many women find it liberating in many ways.
  2. Learning to use nature to help you through this natural cycle of life clearly makes sense and should be among the choices you consider to help you through this change in your life.
  3. In America it is estimated that 80% of women will suffer hot flashes during menopause, but in most parts of Asia this is only 12 - 15%. In Japan there isn`t even a word for this condition because it is so rare.
  4. The reason for this is not genetic, but rather diet. In most Asian countries soy is a regular part of ones diet. Traditional Japanese diet includes a large variety of soy products into their daily meals.
  5. Miso soup is included with most meals. Tofu, soy milk, edamame and others are used daily as both the center piece or as a side dish or appetizer. Soy has plant estrogens which are weaker then human estrogen, but otherwise very similar.
  6. This means they are strong enough to often relieve the symptoms of menopause without raising the risk of breast cancer and other concerns of using hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
  7. General practices of good health will also go a long ways in helping this problem. Talking with family and friends and getting their support is also very useful. Make sure you are eating plenty of whole foods and fish. Get an appropriate amount of exercise, take up meditation to reduce stress and find a spiritual faith of you choosing to be actively involved in.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Hot Flashes - Restoring The Imbalance Caused By Menopause

Going through menopause is hard for all the women in the world that experience it. Hot flashes are one of the most common symptom of menopause. A sudden, unexpected wave of heat travels through the body during a hot flush. The agony can last anywhere from 30 seconds to a few minutes before passing. The entire event stems from the decreases amount of estrogen that your body produces. These fluctuations in temperature can be very uncomfortable for women. Experiencing temperature changes can happen during the day, night, and anywhere between. fortunately there are many options today that are available to eliminate this discomfort and uneasiness for women.
Hot flushes and hot flashes are the same thing. Different people identify the symptom using one of the two names. The symptom begins with a sudden, intense feeling of warmth on the face and upper body. The symptom may be accompanied by sweating and reddening of the skin. The brain is unable to regulate temperature and the blood vessels in the body are out of control.
Flushes occur most often in late evening, during tense situations, in hot weather, or after drinking or eating something hot. This symptom of menopause usually goes away within three to four years, but may last longer for some women. Hot flushes can cause night sweats during sleep and in many cases severely soak the bedding of women experiencing them.
The thought of going through a hot flush is very uncomfortable. It can be an extremely bad experience for any woman who has suffered through one. There are many remedies available to alleviate the flushes, but many remedies come with adding harmful chemicals and toxins into the body that can cause other symptoms and side effects.
Something natural and harmless for the body is what all women wish they could find when they are looking for remedies for hot flushes. The latest scientific advancements offer wonderful, natural relief of menopausal symptoms. Women everywhere are getting a great deal of options presented to them now when they visit their physician. It's advisable you do your research on the benefits of all- natural supplements that are out on the market today for menopause symptom relief.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

How to Handle Hot Flashes During Menopause

Welcome to the hot flash sisterhood! Most women (about 80%) experience hot flashes and night sweats to some degree, and for some of us they become bad enough to negatively impact our lives. The good news is that we can do something about them. The choices are many and there are pros and cons to everyone. In a nutshell, your options are: Natural and herbal remedies, Hormones of some form or another or Lifestyle changes
Natural and Herbal Remedies
There are numerous natural and herbal remedies for hot flashes. Some plants contain Phytoestrogens (plant-based estrogen) that mimics the activity of the estrogen our body produces naturally.
Soy, Black Cohosh, Red Clover and some others are well-known and readily available. Most supplements for the treatment of hot flashes contain a combination of these herbs (i.e. Black Cohosh, Licorice Root, Dong Quai, Wild Yam, Chaste Berry). A well researched and popular supplement is Remifemin. It contains standardized Black Cohosh and has been used in Europe since the 50s. It is now available in the US.
Maca Root is also popular for the treatment of hot flashes. It works on balancing the system in your body that regulates the hormones. A popular product in this category is MacaFem.
A downside of herbal remedies is that it may be several weeks before you can feel the benefits. Additionally, not every herb or supplement will work for every woman AND what may work during peri-menopause may not help with post-menopausal hot flashes.
Be sure to use only standardized supplements from resources you trust. Several investigations have shown that the supplement market is rife with products that either don't contain what they claim or worse, are contaminated with substances that may be dangerous.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone Therapy is still the most effective and fastest way to treat hot flashes. We have come a long way since the media reported results from a study that showed an increase in breast cancer and heart problems with the use of Estrogen. Now we have not only better guidelines for the use of hormones, but also many more options. The guideline for any kind of hormone treatment is to treat for the shortest time in the lowest dosage that is effective.
Traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy with conjugated estrogen (sometimes together with progesterone) was the standard hormone treatment for decades. It is still widely prescribed by doctors despite the possible side effects.
Bioidentical hormones are a new, and many claim a safer, way to use hormones. They are available by prescription in many forms (patches, creams, suppositories, pills). They can be either compounded (made to your specification by a compound pharmacy) or they are available from your pharmacy in standard dosage.
Lifestyle Changes
By far the safest option to deal with your hot flashes are lifestyle changes. Unfortunately, this option requires the most commitment and time to implement. Some of the easier changes are:
- Wear layered clothing
- Use special sheets and night-wear (using fabrics that wick the moisture away from the body)
- Use a fan and lower the temperature in the room
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially non-sugar, non-carbonated drinks
- Do deep breathing exercises to help relax
- Avoid hot flash triggers such as spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine and nicotine
Exercise has been proven to reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. Regular exercise will also help to maintain a healthy weight. Women who are overweight have a harder time with hot flashes.
A healthy diet with lots of vegetables and fruits, low in processed foods and sugars, will help with your symptoms. Vegetables and fruits contain chemical substances (Isoflavones, Lingans, certain vitamins) that will help with your hot flashes. However this is a long- term change that requires a lot of commitment.
If your life is negatively impacted by hot flashes, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor. There are doctors that specialize in menopausal women and you can find a list at the American Menopause Society Website.
Menopause can be a time of resetting our priorities, and this may be a great chance to start leading a healthier life. Plus it will help with our hot flashes as well. You may start with trying some of the herbs or supplement together with some lifestyle changes and see if this will work for you. There are lots of options to deal with your hot flashes that range from simple lifestyle changes to hormone therapy.

Hot Flashes and How to Deal With Them Naturally

Each women experience hot flashes in different way and they can be mild, moderate, or severe. While some women experience hot flashes during the day, particularly of the upper torso and face, others are experiencing discomforts during the night. Due to strong or even problematic menopausal symptoms, some women may need hormonal therapy, while others may just opt for natural remedies in order to manage menopausal symptoms.
In the past, there was only conventional approach, for all women in menopause to provide relief from common menopausal symptoms especially hot flashes. A well known all for one conventional approach was HRT. However, it was found that HRT is not a cure-all solution and it had caused many irreversible side effects. Luckily, nowadays there are also other (non hormonal) natural remedies women in menopause can choose from, as an alternative to HRT.
Gentle, natural, plant-based approach
Maca (Lepidium Meyenii) is a root from Peru, used for centuries as a stable food and as a medicine. As a medicine maca helped women manage menopausal symptoms, such as to relieve hot flashes, vaginal dryness, increase libido. And, there are few good reasons to that.
Maca contains large amounts of vitamins and minerals necessary for women body to produce once again healthy levels of hormones (maca has amazing amount of vitamins, minerals, healthy fatty acids, phytonutrients, amino acids, alkaloids, plant sterols). In addition, alkaloids found in maca act directly on hypothalamus and the pituitary axis, thus improving the functioning of entire endocrine system, especially thyroid and adrenal glands. Also, as an adaptogen maca raises the body's resistance to any kind of stress, helps restore body's energy according to individuals needs and repairs what needs to be repaired.
Maca benefits
  • Provides most important nutrients for hormonal balance
  • Reduces hot flashes during menopause
  • Encourages glands to produce estrogen, progesterone and testosterone hormones according to individual needs
  • Balances the entire endocrine system
  • Increases libido
  • Improves mood swings
  • Reduces depression and anxiety
  • Enhances overall energy levels and stamina
  • Increases mental clarity and concentration
Natural and harmless plant, maca root does not contain any hormones and it does not have drug like effect on the body. Rather, maca encourages and regulates the production of most important ovarian hormones such as estrogen and testosterone and acts as a hormonal balancer, stimulant and toner. With maca women not only experience significant relief in hot flashes, but they also get back their vitality and energy to their life.
Based on individuals' needs or a medical history, it will depend what kind of remedy to apply in order to reduce hot flashes and balance hormones during the menopause. Whatever approach, it should be taken with caution and from the perspective that every woman is unique and as an individual, every women deserves unique individualized approach to treat menopause symptoms especially hot flashes.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Pregnancy Hot Flashes

It is believed that only menopausal women have hot flashes. There are some medical conditions, like low blood pressure, low blood sugar and hyperthyroidism, that cause hot flashes. Male hot flashes amongst prostate cancer patients are common. A few pregnant women also suffer from hot flashes.
During pregnancy, estrogen levels tend to fluctuate in some women. Even among menopausal women, where 75% suffer from hot flashes, it is not the level of estrogen or other hormones that cause the problem, but the fluctuating hormone levels. Hot flashes are a hot feeling on the neck and face, making the face red, and may be accompanied by sweating, dizziness, head ache and heart palpitation. They can last from a few seconds up to an hour. One of the prime causes of hot flashes is stress and anxiety. Pregnant women do have a lot of anxiety.
When the hot flashes are mild, simple modifications to behavior patterns help manage the problem. Avoiding spicy food, alcohol, caffeine, smoking, diet pills and hot environments can eliminate or reduce the intensity of hot flashes. Exercise, as advised by a physician, helps a lot. A moderate attack of flashes needs more attention. Besides lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, acupuncture and mild over-the-counter medication assists in preventing severe hot flashes. Any medication taken by a pregnant woman must be with the approval of the physician.
In a severe case of hot flashes, a pregnant woman has a problem which does not have a clear-cut treatment. A menopausal woman can opt for hormone therapy for severe hot flashes. But a pregnant woman cannot have it, as the estrogen can lead to miscarriage. Some anti-depressant medications like clodinine and methyldopa are also not recommended for pregnant women, as they get into the fetal bloodstream.
So the few pregnant women who have hot flashes have to be very careful with their behavior patterns to stop any trigger that starts the problem. They have to trust more on exercise, relaxation techniques and a calm, peaceful mind.

How Long Do Hot Flashes Last

Many women wonder how long do hot flashes last, but regretfully, there is no clear answer. Some women never have hot flashes, while some have them for years. Others have learned how to stop hot flashes naturally and that is the focus of this article.
The answers to "how long do hot flashes last" will vary depending on the women that you ask. Some women don't have them at all. Others have them for several years before menopause and continue to have them for several years following menopause. It is not unheard of for a woman to have them for as long as seven years, unless she learns how to stop them.
For many years doctors recommended hormone replacement therapy to stop hot flashes. Naturally, as with many medical treatments, we have now learned that hormone replacement therapy increases a woman's risk of developing many different life threatening conditions, including blood clots and stroke. The health risks increase with continued use. Most experts now suggest that women, who must use HRT, should use it for the shortest time possible.
This creates an issue for women who have menopausal symptoms for five, six or seven years and if you ask a group of postmenopausal women, "how long do hot flashes last," then several of them will likely tell you that they started in their mid forties and lasted till their early to mid fifties. Women who learned how to stop hot flashes naturally will likely tell you that they were only bothered by them if they stopped taking their supplements, drank too much coffee, too much wine or forgot to avoid their personal triggers.
Black cohosh can stop hot flashes naturally for most women, but adding red clover isoflavones or other phytoestrogens (plant components that have an estrogen-like effect) can be even more helpful. Some women have lifestyle issues that increase hot flash symptoms. Among these are cigarette smoking and chronic stress.
Women who smoke are also more likely to develop blood clots as a result of using hormone replacement therapy. So, of course, the best thing to do is quit. The American Cancer Society provides helpful literature for women who want to quit smoking. A support group can also be helpful.
Research has shown that chronic stress aggravates many medical problems, even causes some and lowers the body's ability to fight off infectious diseases. Some women have found that stress management and relaxation techniques can stop hot flashes naturally.
Caffeine and other stimulants can trigger hot flashes, as can excess alcohol consumption. Certain foods trigger hot flashes in some women. A symptoms diary can help you find your own unique triggers.

Monday, February 7, 2011

Cool Off Those Hot Flashes

Many women think that they have an idea of what to expect when they begin experiencing menopause, and while there is a standard list of common symptoms and conditions, in truth each woman has an entirely different experience than the next. Some have extreme symptoms while others report that they rarely if ever experience this. If you're one of those women that does seem to have hot flashes as a side effect of menopause what can you do about these?
One thing to keep in mind is that the number of hot flashes you may or may not have and the degree to which you experience them will also be different. Some have them only at night whereas others have them consistently throughout the day; some have them on a regular or daily basis while others have one only every so often. If you have them every day but hear of a friend that has one only occasionally, don't assume that there is something necessarily wrong with you. Some symptoms of menopause are accompanied by facial flushing and sweating whereas others are just uncomfortably warm.
Typically hot flashes are caused by a rush of hormones that raise a woman's body temperature. During menopause, a woman's hormone level can fluctuate greatly as her body is adjusting to this change. It's thought that they typically happen because of this fluctuation rather than a low level of hormones, so they may taper off as the body adjusts. Taking hormone replacement therapies can help with all the symptoms of menopause including hot flashes but for those who aren't ready for this, there are a few things you can do to help yourself.
For one, understand that hot flashes are going to happen and prepare yourself appropriately. It helps to dress in layers at all times so that you can take off your coat and sweater when you're feeling a bit warm. Avoid materials that make you feel uncomfortable such as silk or nylon, and instead opt for cotton and other natural fabrics. Bring a fan into your office and use it. Drink plenty of water to help your body with its own natural cooling systems. Make sure you wear deodorant and use some powder under your arms, in your underclothes, and in your armpits as well. While you may not be able to actually stop the symptoms of menopause altogether, by doing everything you can to keep yourself comfortable you're less likely to be embarrassed if you do have them. If you drink ice water or even suck on popsicles you can help cool yourself off or at least not feel as bad when you do experience hot flashes.
And if you do have symptoms of menopause to the extent that they interfere with your everyday life, keep you awake at night, or otherwise are impossible for you to deal with on your own, don't hesitate to speak to your doctor. He or she may have some other options for you.


Get Relief From Hot Flashes Easily

The only thing on your mind is getting relief from hot flashes when a hot flash strikes. While hot flashes are inconvenient and uncomfortable, most women are willing to try just about anything to cure hot flashes. Whenever you are looking for hot flashes treatment, you may have tried a few tips like herbal remedy, Effexor and Neurontin hot flashes medication.
Many women are making a choice to use only natural remedies to relief hot flashes. Researches are beginning to show a few startling side effects that hot flash medications can cause. You probably won't face any serious side effects if you choose to pursue an herbal remedy as a hot flash treatment.
You can also supplement your herbal menopause treatments with a few smart methods. Hot flashes tend to come on quickly and getting your temperature up at a rapid rate. They can dissipate just as fast and letting you chilled and often drenched in sweat.
One of the easiest things to get tangible relief from hot flashes is to dress in layers. While you dress in layers, you can always take off the outer layer of clothing when your hot flash begins and continue removing layers as your temperature rises. As soon as the hot flash away, you can quickly wear your clothes back on and staving off a chill.
The very clothes you choose to wear can even help in your hot flash relief as important as layering your clothes can be. Try to avoid wearing clothes made out of any type of synthetic fiber. It is better to wear natural fibers like cotton as clothes made out of cotton breath and let you to remain cooler.
Many women who suffer from hot flashes usually also suffer from night sweats, so it is important to consider what type of clothing you should sleep in. Most doctors recommend something which is loose and easy to change in the middle of the night. Just like the clothing you wear during day, your pajamas and sheets should be made from natural fibers such as cotton.
Estrogen manages the way that your body regulates its temperature so it makes sense that when your body stops producing it, you will face hot flashes. Finding relief from hot flashes is as simple as finding a way to replace the estrogen your body is no longer producing. Using treatment that mention in our website is the best way to naturally help your body find relief from hot flashes and other menopause symptoms.

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Hot Flashes in Men Are Quite Common

Male hot flashes are quite common. In general terms they in men occur almost as often as in they do for women. Male hot flushes however are not typically heard of, just as male menopause is rarely discussed. One of the main reasons for this is that many men do not discuss the fact that they suffer from hot flushes because they feel embarrassed about it. The fact of the matter is that menopause symptoms in men should be expected due the condition known as andropause, or male menopause.
Male flashes are generally caused by the very same things that cause the menopausal symptoms in women, namely hormonal fluctuations. Just as in women, male hot flashes can also be caused by the side effect from some prescription drugs which they may be taking for another unrelated health problem. Male hot flushes can be treated by traditional drug therapy, however there is a great deal of interest in finding a more natural non drug approach to relieve hot flashes in men.
It is also becoming more common for Men to suffer from flashes as a result of treatment for prostate problems, and prostate cancer in particular. Part of the treatment in these types of cases typically includes hormone therapy as a part of the remedial treatment regime. From research on the subject, it would seem that there is a lack of a non-medical treatment for male hot flashes that consistently works. Many of the traditional hot flush remedies are not suitable for men because of possible negative side effects.
There is however a new non drug product which is showing great promise, and is in fact being recommended by some doctors specializing in Menopause treatment. The product is is a Band aid type product which is placed around the top joint of the little finger, close to the finger nail. It is simple to use at any time and reports indicate an almost immediate reduction in the effect of the hot flash.

Cure for Hot Flashes which Actually Work

When someone says the word menopause there are two words that immediately come to mind - "hot flashes." The two terms pretty much go hand in hand. Depending on which study you listen to - between 60%-90% of women will experience hot flashes when menopause hits. One advantage with so many women experiencing the same thing is that there are multiple information sources to help guide you to hot flash relief. The overwhelming consensus is to start by exploring a natural cure for hot flashes.
Hot flashes vary in intensity and duration. One woman finds sufficient relief fanning herself while another finds herself reaching for a hand towel to wipe off the pouring perspiration. As for consistency, some women experience upwards of fifteen hot flashes a day, where another will feel a hot flash about once a month. Also varying from one woman to another is what works as a natural cure for hot flashes.
One natural cure for hot flashes is to change your diet. Some find that a low-fat diet helps. But if you find yourself losing excessive weight your menopause symptoms may worsen. Each woman will find that different foods and spices increase their symptoms. By monitoring yourself you will easily find a culprit or two.
As for relaxation and stress reduction: just do it! Not only can it be a natural cure for hot flashes, but a regular part of a healthy lifestyle. Every one has stressors in their lives and the onset of menopause doesn't help. Yoga, meditation, massage and relaxation exercises are a great way to begin your natural cure for hot flashes.
A less popular natural cure for hot flashes is the use of Chinese medicine. Well, less popular in North America. This little used method is long in tradition when treating hot flashes. The Chinese doctor will first determine if you are experiencing "hot" or "cold" menopause. "What?" you may say, "of course it's a hot menopause." In Chinese medicine this term is not referring to the physical temperature, but the type of menopause. A natural cure for hot flashes in Chinese medicine includes acupuncture and herbology.
Acupuncture involves the combination of your inner wind, energy or spirit. Achieving balance by following Chinese acupuncture may result in a natural cure for hot flashes. Not all women find relief through acupuncture, but again, some do.
Herbology is, in short, the study of herbs and their relation to each other. Herbology is a significant natural cure for hot flashes in Chinese medicine. The doctor understands which herbs work together in order to help. However you never want to experiment with herbs without knowing what you're doing. There is a possibility of concocting a harmful mixture.
If you find yourself wondering about the nature of your sudden flushed face and warm upper body, it may be time to find a natural cure for hot flashes. With the plethora of available resources, you will easily find one or ten tips that will significantly alleviate your sudden discomfort!

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Why Men Can Have Hot Flashes Too

For years women have struggled with menopause symptoms and the challenges aging takes on their bodies. There has been some media coverage about how the tables have turned or in this case possibly equal between the sexes.
Men began reporting symptoms of menopause which resembled those of menopause many years ago to their doctors who scoffed at the symptoms at first, but have since realized that manopause is a real condition. So, what is manopause and why is it so important now?
Manopause has been dubbed the term to describe what some consider as male menopause. The scientific term for manopause is andropause. The word andropause is formed by combining two Greek words - andro meaning male and pause meaning stop. Andropause is a term used to describe low testosterone or male menopause. It begins with hormonal, physiological and chemical changes that occur in men between the ages of 40 and 55.
In some cases it can occur as early as 35 or as late as 65. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates that four to five million American men may suffer from low testosterone, but only 5 percent of them are currently being treated.
The notable difference between menopause and manopause is the decline of testosterone is gradual in comparison to women where the decrease in estrogen is sudden and ceases in a matter of years. Unlike female menopause, manopause can last for years because of its gradual onset. By the age of 50, 10 percent of men have low levels of testosterone and their testosterone levels will drop over the course of five years. By age 70, more than half of the men are testosterone deficient.
In fact, men lose about one to two percent of their testosterone every year, beginning at the age of 30. Some men suffer hot flashes because their testosterone levels have sunk so low. Physicians report that millions of American men suffer the symptoms of manopause without ever knowing it.
The following symptoms are common in manopause, but are often dismissed as a normal sign of aging: loss of energy, fatigue, hot flashes and night sweats, joint aches and stiffness in hands, changes in hair growth and skin quality, anxiety, memory loss, loss of libido, muscle mass decline, erectile dysfunction, irritability and mood swings, sleep deprivation, increased body fat, reduced muscle mass and strength, decreased bone density and depression.
Some research even suggests that a number of men also suffer from hot flashes much like menopausal women if their testosterone level is unusually low. Other complications associated with manopause include an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
It should be noted that testosterone levels and these symptoms cannot predict whether men will benefit from treatment. There are many conditions that can cause the symptoms associated with low testosterone. For example, alcohol abuse, thyroid and other hormonal disorders, liver and kidney disease, heart failure and chronic lung disease can all cause similar symptoms. Depression can cause many of these symptoms in men who have normal levels of testosterone.
Men should regularly have their doctor measure their testosterone levels to ensure that they do not become too high, which can increase the risk of dangerous side effects such as blood clots, heart attacks and stroke.
One of the treatments available to men is TRT (Testosterone Replacement Therapy). The most significant concerns regarding TRT (which is available by prescription only) are the potential effects on the prostate. Increasing testosterone levels can lead to an enlarged prostate and possibly prostate cancer.
Additionally, if being treated with TRT, men should have regular physical examinations and blood tests to monitor for potential damage to their liver, blood and prostate. Sleep apnea has also been found to be a potentially life-threatening side effect of TRT.
Alternative treatments for low testosterone promote efforts to balance out hormone levels. This includes for example, increased weight-bearing exercises, losing weight, reducing stress, eating healthier with smaller meals, taking calcium supplements, and the possible use of TRT. Keep in mind that all hormones have side effects. The realization is that nature may have a reason for the decline in some of these hormones.
So what should you do if you have symptoms that may show testosterone deficiency? If you are older than 50 and have symptoms, see your doctor. The doctor should first determine whether the symptoms may be caused by other conditions. If not, the doctor should measure blood levels of total testosterone. The tests should be done in the morning, when testosterone levels are the highest, and repeated at least once to ensure accuracy.
Medical Disclaimer
Information in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to act as a substitute for medical advice provided by a qualified health care provider, nor is any information on this topic intended to diagnose, treat, care or prevent any diseases or conditions.
It is important when using herbs and vitamins to pay attention to our bodies' responses and to remember that natural doesn't mean we can take large amounts of a substance without thinking of side effects. It is recommended to obtain advice from someone who is familiar with herbs and vitamins for the correct dosages.

Hot Flashes Help Through Diet and Herbs

Hot flashes help is available without hormones or drugs. Hot flashes and sweats are one of the earliest, most bothersome and common complaint of menopause. Hot flashes and sweats affect 80% of Western women as they transition beyond their childbearing years. But not all women in the world experience hot flashes and sweats the way women in Western cultures do. For instance Japanese women are reported to experience far fewer hot flashes. Only 10 to 15 percent of Japanese women are reported to experience hot flashes, night sweats and other symptoms of menopause such as mood swings, dry skin, vaginal dryness, irritability, depression, anxiety, fatigue, sexual problems and urinary tract problems. Japanese women also suffer far less breast cancer than their Western counterparts. A bulletin of the American Cancer Society, Cancer Facts and Figures states that women in the US are 4.5 X more likely to die of breast cancer than Japanese.
Why do Western women suffer while Japanese women do not?
Much of the difference between Japanese women and their Western counterparts with regard to menopausal complaints, including hot flashes and sweats, is attributed to our different diets. The Japanese consume lots of soy in the form of tofu, fermented soy products and soy milk. Soy contains phytoestrogens, or plant derived hormones that have an estrogenic effect in the human body. This effect is mild compared to the human estrogens (estrone, estradiol and estriol), but can be significant and therapeutic. Consumption of foods containing phytoestrogens replaces the estrogens lost with decreased secretion of estrogens from the ovaries during perimenopause and menopause. The net effect is an easier transition through menopause with fewer and less severe symptoms of menopause-just as Japanese women experience.
Eat key foods that contain phytoestrogens.
Soy beans and flax seed are two foods that contain phytoestrogens that are particularly helpful with regard to the symptoms of menopause. A study published in the British Journal of Medicine in 1990 documents the benefits of soy and flaxseed. Women suffering the typical symptoms of perimenopause and menopause (average age 59) added soy (6 tablespoons of soy flour) or flaxseed (2 tablespoons) each day. A major complaint of perimenopause and menopause is vaginal dryness. This occurs when decreased estrogen levels result in lessened secretion of vaginal mucus. As a measure of the benefit of the soy and/or flaxseed, each woman's vaginal mucous secretion was evaluated before and six weeks of the changed diet. In just six weeks the women experienced renewed lubrication of the vaginal tissues, to their premenopausal status. A study in Maturitas: Journal of Climacteric and Postmenopause reported a 40% decrease in hot flashes, sweats, palpitations, headaches, depression, fatigue, irritability and nervousness, sleep disturbances, depression, and loss of sexual desire with soy. The diets of 58 women were supplemented with 6 tablespoons of soy flour per day. Improvement was experienced in six weeks. Phytoestrogens are found naturally in many of the foods that we eat. Soy and flaxseed are two foods with higher concentrations and high quality phytoestrogens. Other common foods that contain phytoestrogens are apples, carrots, oats, plums, olives, potatoes, tea, coffee, and sunflower seeds.
Herbal remedies for hot flashes.
Plant herbs also contain phytoestrogens that are shown to help relieve menopausal complaints such as hot flashes and sweats. While many of these herbs have been in use for some time, documentation of their benefits is not well established. Herbs like dong quai (Angelica sinensis), chasteberry (Vitex Agnus-castus) have been shown to relieve menopausal complaints up to 45%. Black cohosh is another herb that has commonly been used for menopausal complaints. It is available in a product called Remifemin. Clinical studies of the benefits of black cohosh for menopausal symptoms yield varied results. Some studies document definite improvements, others seem not to. In a recent study researchers postulated that the mechanism of black cohosh's benefits for menopausal complaints is through its influence of opiate receptors in the brain. Clinical studies document the benefits of Siberian rhubarb root extract (ERr 731) for relief of menopausal complaints. One herb that is not well known in the United States, but which has been in use in Germany for hot flashes and sweats since 1993, is Siberian rhubarb root extract. Known as ERr 731 to researchers, it has been shown to reduce hot flashes and sweats by 72% in just 12 weeks.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Menopause - Dealing With Hot Flashes

Those of you who have had to deal with menopause or peri-menopause probably have had the experience known as hot flashes, or "your own personal sauna" as some women refer to it. What can you do about hot flashes other than suffer through them?
First, let's talk about what causes hot flashes. We actually don't know what causes them for sure, some people feel that it is due to low levels of estrogen. But since they tend to happen more during peri-menopause which is a time of extreme hormonal fluctuation, we could also assume that they are somehow caused by the hormonal ups and downs, specifically estrogen.
So one of the first choices for treating hot flashes are just some simple lifestyle changes you can adapt to help you get through the period of symptoms. Try to identify your triggers that may be connected to your hot flashes, like drinking a hot beverage or being in situations that stress you out. Some women find that staying away from coffee or other beverages that contain caffeine can help lessen the occurrence of hot flashes. Avoiding alcohol and spicy foods can help too. Dressing in layers can help too in addition to lowering the room temperature and having a small fan handy. Adding more soy protein to your diet may help, but you may want with your doctor before making dietary changes. There are some questions about the affect of soy protein on women who are at high risk for breast cancer.
The second choice is alternative treatments, which include the use of supplements and vitamins and herbs. Acupuncture is an alternative treatment which has been shown to be helpful in treating hot flashes. Vitamins E has been used for years but there has yet to be any data that shows that there is a proven benefit for using it, again because of the breast cancer issue. Bioflavinoids can provide some of the benefits of estrogen and those can be taken with vitamin C. One of the herbs that has been proven to help hot flashes is Black Cohosh. It is available in a product called RemFemin. There are no studies that prove that homeopathic remedies can help relieve symptoms, but they are not shown to cause any harm either, Lachesis, Pulsatilla, Amyl Nitricum and Belladonna are some of the homeopathic remedies that people use to treat hot flashes.
The third option is using drugs. There are non-hormonal drugs and hormonal drugs that can be used to alleviate the symptoms of hot flashes. Some of the drugs that do not contain hormones include Bellergal (belladonna alkaloids, ergotamine and phenobarbital), clonidine, lofexidene and some or the SSRIs like Effexor, Paxil and Prozac. The other drug option is to take hormonal supplements. If your hot flashes are unbearable and you are not at risk for breast cancer or a breast cancer survivor, estrogen is probably going to be your best choice especially for short term use. Sometimes doctors will prescribe birth control pills as treatment when a woman is experiencing hot flashes and still having a period.
Using one or a combination of many of these techniques or treatments should bring you some relief from the annoyance of hot flashes. Just remember that most of the time hot flashes and night sweats are temporary while your body is going through the period of hormonal fluctuations that occur during peri-menopause and should subside once you officially hit menopause.

Connection Between Hot Flashes And Hysterectomy

It is often seen that women who have undergone a hysterectomy often complains of the early onset of menopause and therefore suffers from the hot flashes to a greater extent. However, hysterectomy cannot be blamed for causing the menopause or related symptoms but the procedure which removes the uterus and the ovary prompts the symptoms of menopause.
Since hysterectomy is a significant procedure in the life of a woman therefore the other signs of menopause such as hot flashes often seem to be an unbearable problem. But if you understand why you are having such problems then it becomes easier to deal with them.
It is often seen that the women who have gone through hysterectomy have hot flashes lasting from 30 seconds to 5 minutes and the intensity ranges from mild to severe. The scientists have still not been able to identify the real causes behind them. However, it is regarded that the hypothalamus believes that the body is heated up and therefore it vents out the heat by sweating and flashing up.
The falling in the level of the estrogen after the ovary and the uterus is removed during hysterectomy is also known to increase the severity of the hot flashes in women since the hypothalamus detects an increased body temperature and releases some chemicals that make the blood vessels of the skin dilated. Therefore heat is released and the effect is the hot flashes.
But it is not impossible to deal with the hot flashes that are related to hysterectomy. Women who are suffering from such conditions should follow a strict diet chart which excludes all hot and spicy food, alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes.
They should also go for regular exercises as the bones will remain strong and the intensity of the problem would decrease. Also the hormonal imbalances in the body due to the hysterectomy should be taken care of and further changes in the lifestyle and the diet and medications should be made.
It is recommended that a woman who has gone through the hysterectomy should consult her medical consultant regularly and follow hormone balancing treatment and alternative medications so that this situation after hysterectomy can be combated properly.
They should take food which have phytoestrogens in them as well as lead a stress free life. Non estrogenic herbs are also good testosterone treatment, and therefore they should be taken for the stimulation of the hormone glands for producing necessary hormones in a natural way. Thus the women suffering from this problem can stay fit.

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Perimenopause Symptoms - Natural Remedies For Hot Flashes

A staggering 88% of American women suffering from perimenopause symptoms are more or less tormented by hot flashes. Hot flashes are not life threatening. They just make your life miserable. Suddenly, you're hot and uncomfortable. You can have a soaker or merely a moist upper lip. Night sweats disrupt your sleep which can cause poor concentration, memory problems, irritability and exhaustion during the day. The frequency, duration, and intensity vary widely from woman to woman and also for individual women during the various stages of menopause.
A hot flash is a sudden, intense version of what the body normally does to cool down when it is overheated: Blood vessels near the skin dilate and you break into a sweat. But why, when a woman is sitting at her desk or driving down Main Street, does her body suddenly think it is overheated? The causes of such thermal chaos are only partly understood. Hot flashes are linked to the fluctuating hormones that cause so many perimenopause symptoms, but other factors can cause your temperature control to go out of whack.
Instead of hormone replacement therapy, look at safer, less drastic measures first because you should always begin with the least aggressive approach to treating your menopausal symptoms, and because living a healthy lifestyle makes sense regardless of what else you do.
Here are some ideas that have helped many women find relief:
  • Keep a record of when hot flashes occur and what you were eating or doing, or how you were feeling at the time. Look for your "triggers." Some common triggers are: hot or spicy foods, alcohol, caffeinated drinks, cigarette smoke. Watch out for hot tubs, hot beds, hot rooms, hot weather, and hot showers. Avoid saunas. Sugar and, alas, chocolate were the biggest triggers for me.
  • Many women find that stress tops the charts as a trigger. Was that hot flash at work a random hit, or were you feeling under pressure at the time? Was it a full day of pressure without a break? This is the time of life when nature forces you to slow down and take care of yourself or else everything gets worse.
  • Paced breathing. Two studies found that slow, deep breathing reduced the frequency of hot flashes by 39 percent and by 44 percent.
  • Dress in light layers, so you can peel off one layer after another as you get warmer. Make sure the layer beneath the jacket you wear to work is something you won't mind showing if you need to take your jacket off during a meeting. Avoid turtlenecks. Don't wear wool or synthetics, and be wary of silk. That leaves cotton, linen, rayon, and more cotton.
  • Try to notice the subtle signs right before a hot flash starts. You can often stop a hot flash or lessen its intensity by drinking cold water or touching something cold like metal or window glass. If you're home, an ice pack to the back of the neck can be very effective. The trick is to catch it early, before it really gets going.
  • Sip ice water to cool down your insides. Be sure to drink enough water to replace the fluids lost by sweating.
  • Cooling exercise. Yoga is perfect and can also help balance your endocrine glands, reduce stress, and teach you the paced breathing exercises.
  • Dietary supplements such as black cohosh, red clover, soy, and vitamin E can help control your hot flashes.
Remember that what works for one woman may not help another. If one strategy doesn't provide relief, try another and discover what works for you.
Catherine Galeana is a writer and photographer who survived menopause and shares what she learned in the process.
Catherine says this about herself, "I was just getting into yoga when I started searching for help with my own perimenopause. And yoga led me to discover a wealth of safe, natural remedies that worked."

Hot Flashes - A Good Sign For Cancer Patients

Hot flashes are common menopause symptoms from which many women who have reached menopause suffer occasionally. But it can also be of some benefits in the life of many women. If you are wondering how, then here it is.
According to a study that was published in recent times, it is indicated that the hot flashes are actually good for women who are suffering from breast cancer. This is because, according to some oncologists, it actually proves that the chemotherapy has been beneficial for these women who are suffering from the cancer of breast.
The treatments of the breast cancer also affect the menopausal symptoms in the women including the occurrences of the problem. Therefore, if any woman is suffering from cancer of breast, she should immediately speak to her health care expert regarding what to expect in the menopausal symptoms.
However, the researchers who made this discovery were not trying to find a correlation between successful chemotherapy and hot flashes while they conducted their studies on the women having breast cancer and treated with tamoxifen or anstrozole.
According to these scientists, if the women who are suffering from breast cancer and are on medication such as tamoxifen or anstrozole develop symptoms like hot flashes, general sweating or night sweats after taking the medicines, then these women have much lower risk of a renewal of breast cancer. But those women, who do not have these symptoms, might get the cancer back in their bodies.
These researchers further found out that those women who experience joint pain also has a lower risk of getting cancer again. They also concluded that those women who experience both joint pain and the hot flashes, they have 47% lesser chance of getting cancer for the second time.
But these researchers had no explanation why these hot flashes and the joint pains mean the decrease in the risk of the returning of the breast cancer. They suggested that perhaps the genetics and the drug processing mechanisms in the bodies of these women are the factors that are responsible for this.
This new information about the benefit of this problem in the life of the breast cancer patients having medications, have brought rays of hope and relief in the lives of those women who are battling with breast cancer and the side effects that come with the treatment of this disease.
Now, they can be happy with the information that if they have this male menopause-related problem that mean the risk of recurrence of the deadly disease is low.