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.
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.
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