Last summer while I was in Prague, I was suffering from some serious hot flashes. Out of nowhere — whammo! I’d burst into what felt like a fireball of sweat.
I felt like I was on fire with the added benefit of sweating profusely. Like many European countries, Prague doesn’t have air conditioning in most residences or restaurants.
So, my first piece of advice is to stay cool with a fan. Keep a hand fan or a window fan close by at all times.
I remember my grandmother would carry this gorgeous lace fan with her and I thought she was so regal and graceful with her special piece of Spain. It turns out, she was going through menopause.
If air conditioning or a fan are unavailable, try a cold compress. Ice packs are great on the back of your neck. If you don't have one, reach in the freezer for a frozen bag of peas or corn, and apply it to the back of your neck.
If you can, take a cold shower and allow the water to hit the back of your neck, chest, and under your arms.
Another thing to watch is the combination and interaction which creates or traps heat. For example, if you drink hot coffee in the morning, take a hot shower, and apply lotion, you might break into a sweat before you get to the bus stop.
Instead of drinking hot coffee, try iced coffee in the morning and add some skim milk to keep the calories low, but to also keep your bones strong.
Also, on hot days, forego the slathering of lotion. During the hot summer months, consider using a lighter type of lotion versus a heavy lotion during the winter months.
In addition, freeze a bottle of water the night before you go to bed. This way you can take it with you in the morning and sip on the cool water to stay hydrated, as well as keep your core cool.
Wear natural and breathable cotton clothing during the summer months. And wear light colors just in case you experience a burst of sweat while you're at work or out and about.
Menopause doesn’t have to be a bad or terrifying experience. It is just a hot time of your life. But don’t worry — later in life, we will be saying we are cold and looking for that extra sweater.
Sources:
"Working through On-the-job Menopause." The Seattle Times. 11 Aug. 2008. Web. 20 May 2015.
http://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/health/working-through-on-the-job-menopause
"Alternative Therapies for Hot Flashes Are Hit or Miss." Fox News. FOX News Network, 15 May 2015. Web. 20 May 2015.
http://www.foxnews.com/health/2015/05/15/alternative-therapies-for-hot-flashes-are-hit-or-miss
Reviewed May 21, 2015
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith