Hello dear. Hot flushes are menopausal symptoms. I will first tell you the cause of it and then the remedial measures.
The root cause of hot flushes is not clear. What is known is that the part of the brain that senses and controls body temperature (and other body functions) is the
hypothalamus.
During the
menopause, oestrogen levels fall. Although not fully understood, scientists think that this fall in oestrogen causes a glitch in the way the hypothalamus senses body temperature, making it think that you are too hot.
This causes a response designed to cool the body down. More blood goes to the skin (one of the causes of hot flushes and reddening of the skin) and sweat glands start working (the menopausal sweat).
Treatment:
The medications given for you are correct. However do not increase or decrease the dose as per your convinience without consulting your doctor.
Some lifestyle tips:
As menopause symptoms can be so wide ranging, the best way to prepare yourself for 'the change' is to look at all aspects of your life:
1. If you smoke, reduce the number of cigarettes you have each day or even better, stop
smoking. Cigarettes are associated with a higher risk of experiencing hot flushes and it has been shown that the more you smoke, the worse your flushes get
2. Eat a well balanced, wholesome diet and don't miss meals -
low blood sugar levels can be one of the causes of hot flushes!
3. Ensure that you have
regular bowel movements (at least one a day) -
constipation can be a major factor in triggering hot flushes!
4. Drink plenty of plain water - at least a litre and a half. This will help to hydrate you and alleviate hot flushes.
5. Take regular exercise - a brisk half hour walk a day can work wonders!
Deal with
stress. Stress causes the release of chemicals that promote hot flushes!
Hope i have answered your question. Feel free to contact me if you have any more questions. I ll be glad to help you.
All the best
With warm regards
Dr Sanjay Kini