Ask The Readers: How do I manage my hot flashes?

Dear Readers,

I’m 47 years old and have been getting hot flashes like crazy. Any advice on how to ease them? What can you all recommend?

– Hot Mama in Harrison

Ask The Reader is your regular chance to grab the mic and give advice to other readers in our community. Each piece of advice we share comes from a different thoughtful reader. Keep an eye out for more juicy questions and answers!

Dear Hot Mama, 

Welcome to the world of hot and flashy, we’ve been there. Hot flashes interrupt sleep, mess with your mood, and are downright uncomfortable. You’re not the only one who’s tried to climb into her freezer for a little relief! We’ve pooled our knowledge and experience together to help you lower the temperature and get the flashes under control. 

At the end of the day, we can share our advice, but nothing is a substitute for talking to a medical professional. 

Our advice, Hot Mama, centers around how to get cool and how to stay cool. While there were lots of different ways we’ve each managed our own hot flashes, here are the tried and true tricks we all rely on:

How to cool down:

• Run a towel under cold water and place it on the back of your neck
• Take a cold shower
• Drink a glass of ice water
• Place ice packs (or any frozen food you have on hand) on your chest for 10-15 minutes

How to stay cool:

• Avoid overly sweet or spicy foods
• Drink less coffee or consider switching to tea for less caffeine 
• Drink less alcohol
• Invest in lightweight, cooling sheets to keep the bed cool
• Stay hydrated
• Keep a handheld fan nearby, we love the ones that mist too!
• Exercise and move your body daily

These tips should give you a bit of relief, but if you’re still struggling, it’s time to call your doctor. Lots of us have had a good experience with hormone therapy or even homeopathic remedies, supplements, and vitamins to help stabilize our hormones. Talk to your doctor about what they can recommend. Cooler weather awaits!

Sweating it out alongside you, 

The Readers