How To Get Rid Of Hot Flashes

Have you ever had the overwhelming urge to throw open the windows, even in the middle of winter? Or perhaps you're sitting in a meeting and can feel the sweat dripping down your back, even though the AC is cranked up. You might be experiencing a hot flash. And contrary to popular assumptions, hot flashes aren't only experienced by women going through perimenopause or menopause. News flash on the hot flash: This uncomfortable feeling can happen to anyone (via Healthline).

The name describes it perfectly. Hot flashes occur when you notice a sudden wave of heat within your body. Common associated symptoms include sweating and a flushed face. You can also experience this wave of heat while you're sleeping. All the symptoms are the same; it's called night sweats instead of hot flashes. The reason as to why they happen isn't completely understood, though there is a widely circulated belief that it has something to do with circulation (per WebMD). 

Perimenopausal or menopausal or not, you might have experienced hot flashes before. Luckily, there are ways to beat this type of heat.

If you're experiencing hot flashes, there are some lifestyle changes you can consider making. First, avoid excess amounts of both caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Do not check the extra spicy box when ordering take-out food. And wear breathable fabrics like cotton during the day and while sleeping at night, and many of them. Think layers! If you're wearing multiple layers, a hot flash becomes more manageable if you're able to easily strip off your scarf or vest at the first sign of a sudden internal heat wave (via Healthline).

If you have made multiple lifestyle changes and still find yourself soaked in sweat nightly, you can consider taking hormones to help you regulate your body temperature. Taking hormones can lead to other uncomfortable symptoms, so be careful; talk with your doctor to find the right medication and dosage for your needs (via National Institutes of Health).

Hot flashes may be most common for women going through menopausal transition, but they can happen to anyone. Just remember, throwing open the nearest window is always an option until you find other methods to help your keep your cool.