Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause, triggered by your body adjusting to decreasing estrogen levels. While they can occur year-round, the warmer summer months often intensify their frequency and severity.
Know they are super common – nearly 75% of people going through menopause experience them. But, for some reason, we often feel embarrassed or alone in dealing with them. It's time to change that. By fostering open and honest conversations, together we can help build supportive communities where experiences and management strategies are shared.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Managing-Menopausal-Hot-Flashes-in-Summer
- Hydration and diet: Keeping your body well-hydrated is probably the most important thing you can do to manage hot flashes. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and consider cooling drinks like electrolyte-rich coconut water. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you. Embrace a diet filled with cooling foods like salads, fruits, and yogurts. Don't forget the power of herbs like mint and cilantro, which are known for their cooling effects. Experiment with incorporating them into meals for an added temperature and taste boost.
- Dress for success (and breeziness): Your wardrobe can be a great ally in the fight against summer hot flashes. Opt for loose, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo to allow for good air circulation. Light-coloured clothes reflect heat, keeping you cooler than dark clothing. Dressing in layers provides the flexibility to adjust to varying temperatures, whether you're soaking up the sun outdoors or escaping into an air-conditioned indoor space.
- Chill out: Stress is a known trigger for hot flashes, so finding ways to manage stress is key. Regular exercise, deep breathing, and relaxation practices not only help you manage daily stress but also improve your overall wellbeing. Consider trying yoga, meditation, or simply taking a few moments each day to focus on your breath to calm your mind and body.
- The power of cold showers: There's nothing like a cool shower or bath to provide instant relief from a hot flash. Keep your shower water cooler than usual, and try finishing with a blast of cold water for an added chill. When showering isn't an option, keep a wet bandana handy to place on your pulse points for a quick cool down.
- Navigating AC: Summer often means aggressive air conditioning indoors, which can be just as challenging as the outdoor heat. Dressing in layers allows you to adapt to these environments, maintaining comfort no matter where you are.
- Acupuncture: This ancient practice has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. Some people find it effective for reducing the frequency and intensity of their hot flashes, though further research is needed. It involves tiny needles placed at specific points on your body to restore balance and promote wellbeing. If you're open to alternative therapies, acupuncture might be worth a try.
You've Got This!
Don't let hot flashes steal your summer joy. With these tips as your guide, you can stay cool, calm, and totally in charge, no matter the temperature. Remember, you're not alone in this. Reach out to friends or family when you need to chat or share tips. And most importantly, be kind to yourself. You're doing the best you can, and that's something to be proud of. So go ahead, enjoy that swim, take that long walk, and soak up the sunshine. You've got this, and you've got summer!
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Managing-Menopausal-Hot-Flashes-in-Summer
