A women suffering from hot flush may suddenly feel very hot and the skin may become red and flushed. This is followed by perspiration, as the body attempts to cool down. Hot flushes are experienced during the day while night sweat is experienced at night, when the female may not be aware of a hot flush, but may get up to observe that her body is sweating profusely. Both the conditions are associated with hormonal variations that occur as the female approaches the end of her reproductive life.
Causes of Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
Though the most important cause of hot flushes and night sweat is menopause which results in hormonal imbalance in the female, there are several other causes that can be associated with the condition.
- Fall in the level of estrogen in some females may result in hot flushes and night sweat. Though this is relatively uncommon among the reproductive age group, certain disease conditions like PCOD or ovarian cancer may manifest in a similar format
- Mental and psychological stress and anger tend to act as triggers to hot flush and night sweat
- Forceful exercising and hot weather have also been identified as triggering factors
- Intake of certain stimulants like spicy foods, acidic foods, caffeine, alcohol or saturated fats can also trigger an episode of hot flush and night sweat.
- Men also occasionally present with hot flushes and night sweats
What to do for Hot Flushes and Night Sweat
There are certain things that one can do in order to control the unpleasant feeling associated with hot flushes and night sweat. These lifestyle adjustments can help you cope with the symptoms and perform your functions without interruption,
- Even a mild increase in body temperature can trigger a hot flush or night sweat. In case you feel uncomfortable try a cold drink or turning on the air conditioner. This will soothe the symptoms
- Regular exercising has also been found to reduce the incidence of night sweat and hot flushes. Regular exercising increases the body’s inherent ability to cope with stress and heat
- Yoga and meditation can soothe stress. Further they also help an individual to unwind and calm the body and mind
- Avoid stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, saturated fats and spicy foods.
Home Remedies for Hot Flushes and Night Sweats
Certain home remedies have been found to be beneficial in management of the condition
- Herbs like violet, elder and chickweed help in cooling the body and reduce the incidence of hot flushes and night sweats
- Plants including dandelion, black cohosh and dong quai contain phytoestrols, which supplements the body’s demand for estrogen and helps fight the wanted signs of menopause including hot flushes and night sweats
- Thyme or basil essential oil has also been found to provide relief. Adding a few drops to the bath water or using these oils along with a few drops of cologne can have profound benefits in the management of these unwanted symptoms
