Hot Flashes are a particularly irksome, and odd side effect of menopause. I was curious as to why they happen- just what part of leaving child bearing age has to do with sudden uncontrollable heat? The Mayoclinic.org revealed what I had begun to suspect after a quick google search: the cause of hot flashes during menopause is unknown. It’s suspected that decrease in estrogen as well as changes in the hypothalamus (the body’s thermostat) are to blame.
Whatever the reason, I think we can all agree they are TERRIBLE! And although there is no “quick fix” solution, I’ve complied suggestions from Tribe Members to try and make them more tolerable.
Staying cool:
This one seems a little on the obvious side, but worth mentioning. Tom Nicolla, also known as my dad, would cool his sweltering, complaining children by instructing us to put ice cubes or cold water on our wrists. I recently learned that Tribe member Suzanne has also found this trick helpful for managing hot flashes. She subtly applies a cold water bottle to her wrist when she feels one coming on. The Mayo Clinic recommends dressing in layers to remove if you start to get warm, as well as keeping the ambient temperature on the lower side.
Tribe Member Carrie is a big fan of the Evian facial mist spray. “I want to share with my fellow warriors this amazing remedy that I use for hot flashes. It is worth it’s weight in gold. The mist and canister stays cool.
However, there are times when a woman needs the refreshing breeze of a fan, AND a sexy, retro accessory. For those times, Tribe member Delaney suggests this hand held beauty.
If you’re going to sweat, a powerful deodorant is key. And if you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, chances are you pay special attention to what you put in your armpits. Most conventional deodorants include potentially harmful chemicals, including Aluminum (linked to alzheimer’s disease) and parabens (which can mimic estrogen). Many of the #OurTribe members in our private FB group have done extensive research on this topic and test drove a variety of all natural products.
was also mentioned for its uniquely lovely combo of Vanilla and Lavender smell to keep you dry and relaxed!
Dudes figured out the white tee under button down combo years ago, and finally Numi has created a version for the working female. Made from bamboo, with extra padding in the armpit (kinda looks like the crotch part of underwear), Numi‘s innovative undershirts are sleek fitting enough to be worn under clothes, and sweat wicking enough to keep those clothes dry. And because your clothes are dry there is less of that post hot flash freeze phenomenon where your body returns to it’s normal temperature but now you’re covered in sweat and goosebumps. Win Win for you and your clothes!
[…] can really interfere with the whole “cool room at night” thing. We’ve spoken about some daytime strategies for dealing with them , but what about when you’re trying to sleep? Consider changing your bedding to something sweat […]