I am 51 and Im not getting my period every month. I am experiencing hot flashes. I can't take hormones since my maternal aunt died from breast cancer. What can I do with the hot flashes?
May 19, 2013
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first of all ,you need to know the cause of the hot flashes you are experiencing to confirm the cause of your hot flashes,blood tests is needed to check whether you are approaching menopause or if your thyroid gland is working properly. Hot flashes can also be caused by an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism).
The most effective treatment for hot flashes is estrogen, but taking this hormone can increase your risk of developing other health problems and since you have other risk factor having an aunt died from breast cancer then it is not advised to take there are other treatments and lifestyle habits that may reduce or calm your hot flashes
-Low doses of certain antidepressants may decrease hot flashes example prozac but also may be accompanied by side effects such as nausea, dizziness, weight gain or sexual dysfunction. But they can be very helpful in women who cannot use estrogen or progesterone for relief of hot flashes.
-Other prescription medications
Gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise). Gabapentin is an anti-seizure medication that's moderately effective in reducing hot flashes, particularly for women who have symptoms at night. Side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness and headaches.
Clonidine (Catapres, Jenloga, Kapvay, others). Clonidine, a pill or patch typically used to treat high blood pressure, may provide some relief from hot flashes. Side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth and constipation.
If your hot flashes are mild, you may be able to manage them with lifestyle adjustment alone.FOLLOW THESE TIPS:
-Keep cool,Open a window or use a fan or air conditioner to keep air flowing. Lower the room temperature, if you can. If you feel a hot flash coming on, sip a cold drink.
-Watch what you eat and drink. Hot and spicy foods, caffeinated beverages and alcohol can trigger hot flashes.Learn to recognize your own triggers and avoid foods or drinks that bring on hot flashes.
-Relax.
-Don't smoke. Smoking is linked to increased hot flashes
The most effective treatment for hot flashes is estrogen, but taking this hormone can increase your risk of developing other health problems and since you have other risk factor having an aunt died from breast cancer then it is not advised to take there are other treatments and lifestyle habits that may reduce or calm your hot flashes
-Low doses of certain antidepressants may decrease hot flashes example prozac but also may be accompanied by side effects such as nausea, dizziness, weight gain or sexual dysfunction. But they can be very helpful in women who cannot use estrogen or progesterone for relief of hot flashes.
-Other prescription medications
Gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise). Gabapentin is an anti-seizure medication that's moderately effective in reducing hot flashes, particularly for women who have symptoms at night. Side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness and headaches.
Clonidine (Catapres, Jenloga, Kapvay, others). Clonidine, a pill or patch typically used to treat high blood pressure, may provide some relief from hot flashes. Side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth and constipation.
If your hot flashes are mild, you may be able to manage them with lifestyle adjustment alone.FOLLOW THESE TIPS:
-Keep cool,Open a window or use a fan or air conditioner to keep air flowing. Lower the room temperature, if you can. If you feel a hot flash coming on, sip a cold drink.
-Watch what you eat and drink. Hot and spicy foods, caffeinated beverages and alcohol can trigger hot flashes.Learn to recognize your own triggers and avoid foods or drinks that bring on hot flashes.
-Relax.
-Don't smoke. Smoking is linked to increased hot flashes
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