Anti Anxiety Hot Flashes
A Hot flash, or hot flush as they are also known, is a rapid increase in body temperature and a breakout of sweating which can often make the sufferer’s face and neck turn red. They usually occur in the upper half of the body and usually only happen for a matter of seconds to up to thirty minutes, but can recur frequently in a short time frame. When they occur at night they are referred to as night sweats. |
Hot flashes are often associated with women and menopause, but are often the product of other causes and can also affect men. These causes include treatment for various forms of cancer, pregnancy, alcohol, hot liquids, caffeine, certain types of food, climate and stress and anxiety. Anxiety hot flashes are often suffered by those prone to panic and anxiety attacks. A rush of adrenalin associated with feelings of anxiety causes symptoms like sweating, redness and feelings of body heat. In a mild form it is called blushing, but in much more severe cases it can cause dizziness, shortness of breath and even fainting. Women are about twice as prone to anxiety as men, and this is particularly the case during Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), perimenopause and menopause. These cycles are also highly associated with hot flashes, demonstrating a further link between anxiety and hot flashes. There are several steps one can take in order to minimize the occurrence of hot flashes.
- Be aware of possible triggers and try to avoid them, e.g. Caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods and strong emotions.
- Try to keep your body temperature down
- Wear natural fibers if possible such as cotton
- Take a cool shower if you feel that your body temperature is rising
- Take regular exercise, but not within three hours of going to bed
- Practice slow, controlled and deep breathing
- Avoid the intake of food, caffeine or alcohol within three hours of going to bed
- Try a relaxation activity before bedtime
Although not considered harmful alone by medical professionals, hot flashes can be embarrassing and highly uncomfortable. Although some people experience them throughout their lives, to many they are a temporary discomfort and taking the above measures can help to reduce their severity or help to prevent them coming on at all.
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