Surviving Summer Hot Flashes

Solutions for Summer Menopausal Hot Flashes

There is much to love about the summer months, but the sometimes-extreme heat is probably not one of summer’s best features. This is especially true if you’re dealing with the hot flashes that come with menopause. Summer hot flashes are the worst!

When you add the physical discomfort to the season’s heat and humidity, it can seem like there’s no way to find relief from summer hot flashes. Even on the most frigid of days, you can find yourself ready to strip down to your skivvies and climb into a tub of ice.

So, what do you do about hot flashes in summer?

Understanding the Root Cause of Summer Hot Flashes

Hot weather can be miserable just because it’s hot, but sometimes things are even more intense with the addition of perimenopausal hot flashes. Many of the hot flashes we experience are caused by hormonal fluctuations that signal to your hypothalamus that your body is overheating.

The body’s response is to sweat more and circulate blood fast, making for a very miserable experience. When you’re actually hot because of the weather, it feels even worse!

Make a Shift in Your Lifestyle Habits

Hot flashes can be affected by our diet and lifestyle. Making some simple changes can help to reduce the frequency and intensity for some women. Alcohol, smoking, refined sugar, and spicy foods can contribute to the misery that is hot flashes. Keep an eye on how these things affect you and make changes that can help to reduce the frequency and intensity.

Put Summer Hot Flashes on Ice

Freeze a damp towel or washcloth, then drape it around your neck, place it on your forehead, or other areas to help cool your body down. Cold water or ice packs on your wrists or other pulse points can also help to bring your body temperature back to a comfortable place.

Try Some Alternatives

Many women have found success in combating the symptoms of perimenopause, including hot flashes, by trying alternative treatments. Black Cohosh, soy, acupuncture, and other natural remedies have been touted as being helpful for symptoms like hot flashes. Talk with your doctor before starting any kind of alternative therapy and share with them your desire to try alternatives to hormone replacement therapy to relieve symptoms.

Fight Hot Flashes Southern Style

When all else fails, use a little Southern charm to help cool down during a summer hot flash. Fan yourself with a hand fan – or whatever you can get your hands on – to get a little personal breeze going. Sip on some iced tea or lemonade to help keep your body temperature regulated. Dress in breathable fabrics to keep from trapping heat next to your skin.

While hot flashes in summer are never going to be a party, there is plenty that you can do to help alleviate the discomfort. Give a few of these a try and as always, discuss your concerns with your physician to ensure that you are making the best decisions for your body.

You’ll be enjoying the beauty of summer and surviving summer hot flashes like a pro before you know it!