Most of us look forward to summer – who doesn’t want to bask in the sun, right? Did you know that some women dread those hot days? As the temperature rises, some women also experience an internal heat wave. If you can relate to that, then this article is for you. Remember, you are not alone.
The Culprit
According to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS), about 75 percent of women experience perimenopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. If you are one of them, you know well that it is more than just a seasonal heat wave.
So, what causes these crazy temperature spikes? Estrogen. Estrogen is related to the control of one’s body temperature. During perimenopause and menopause, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels start to fluctuate. According to the Mayo Clinic, the hypothalamus (responsible for regulating body temperature) becomes more sensitive to slight changes in body temperature.
When estrogen levels start to decrease, they also trigger the body’s thermostat to send a signal that you are overheated. Your body will help keep you cool. You will notice your heart pumping faster, blood vessels in your skin dilate, and sweat glands release sweat – all this to cool you.
Hot Flashes and Its Effects
Once you experience hot flashes, you would know how uncomfortable it can make you. Just imagine that you are in a room full of people, presenting something and sweating profusely at the same time. Not a good visual, eh? Hot flashes can cause the following:
*difficulty sleeping
*interruption of daily activities
*anxiety
*feeling of helplessness or being out of control
*lack of intimacy
Its Duration
Some women say that hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms can last from six months to two years. For others, it is a never-ending summer as symptoms can linger for 10 or more years!
Hot Flashes in Summer
You do not have to hibernate all summer long. Here are some ways to keep you cool despite hot flashes in this hot weather:
#01. Mind your drinks.
If you are a heavy coffee or alcohol drinker and smoker, then you may want to rethink your lifestyle choices. Reduce your intake of caffeine, alcohol, refined sugar, and spicy foods. Smoking is also detrimental to one’s health on many levels. Drinking soy (at least 54mg of soy isoflavones a day) also helps in easing hot flashes.
#02. Destress.
This is essential: reduce the stress in your life! Stress leads to high blood pressure as well as heart attacks in women, and it can also increase the occurrence of hot flashes.
#03. Consult a doctor.
Going through the changes caused by perimenopause and menopause should not be done alone. Doctors like Dr. Fay Weisberg can help ease the pain and discomfort that these symptoms bring. Don’t forget to setup an appointment with her today to know what your options are!
