hot flushes

Hot flushes for many women are part of the menopause and many deal with them until they run their course. However if you are one of the many women who suffer with frequent or severe hot flushes then you may wish to consider some of the treatments available, such as:

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – HRT has been shown to help ease many of the symptoms of menopause including hot flushes. It is advisable to have a discussion with your doctor if you are considering HRT as the way forward for you.

Alternative methods

Supplements such as black cohosh, red clover, yam extracts, evening primrose, soya and ginseng can assist with reducing hot flushes. 

Dietary changes such as avoiding caffeinated drinks and spicy foods, and limiting alcohol can also help with management of hot flushes. Soya food such as tofu, tempeh, miso, soya milk, whole soy beans have some benefit of reducing hot flushes.

Regular sustained aerobic exercise such as swimming or jogging is the best method of exercise to help reduce hot flushes. A consistent approach is more beneficial. Wearing lighter clothing, sleeping in a cooler room and reducing stress can help reduce hot flushes. During hot weather hot flushes can be more severe, so it is advisable to wear cotton clothes which allow your skin to breathe.

Deep breathing exercises such as yoga, acupuncture and Chi-gong have been effective alternative methods for easing hot flushes.

Natural progesterone can provide relief from hot flushes. It is available in an over-the-counter cream, compound prescription cream or capsule.

Vitamin E may help reduce the occurrence hot flushes.

Some antidepressants stop or reduce hot flushes in some menopausal women. Antidepressants would need to be prescribed by your doctor.

Clonidine medicine may be taken if all other treatments do not help. Clonidine is thought to work by interfering with a body chemical called noradrenaline which is involved with the process of flushing and sweating.

Your doctor may suggest taking Gabapentin to ease menopausal flushing symptoms.

If you are suffering with hot flushes associated with menopausal symptoms it is advisable to discuss options with your doctor before embarking on a treatment regime.

Information written by the talkhealth medical panel

Last Reviewed: 14 February 2011
Next Review Date: 14 February 2013