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The drug treatments for endometriosis that put women
into “artificial menopause” (such as Lupron®,
Synarel®, Prostap®, Enantone®, and Zoladex®)
often have the unpleasant side effects of hot flashes
and night sweats. Of course, these are not the only
side effects associated with these drug treatments
nor are they the most serious. But in some women,
hot flashes can be extremely disturbing, inferring
with daily activities, sleep, and work. The following
tips were compiled to help women who choose drug therapy
for endometriosis to minimize the possibility of hot
flashes and night sweats.
MANAGING HOT FLASHES AND NIGHT SWEATS
-
Eat a healthy diet consisting
of lots of fresh vegetables, whole grains, fresh
fruit, and the “good fats” found in
fish, olive oil, and nuts.
-
Avoid refined sugar, an excess
of carbohydrates, and processed foods.
-
Dress lightly in light natural
fibres, such as cotton, rayon, ramie, silk, and
linen. Layering a short sleeved blouse or sleeveless
tank with a light jacket or sweater will give you
more temperature control. Avoid synthetics and wool
next to your skin.
-
Alcoholic drinks trigger flashes,
so it’s best just to avoid alcohol altogether
during treatment.
- Hot drinks, hot soup, and spicy cuisine can also
be a major trigger. The same holds true for caffeine
and certain drugs (such as antihistamines)
- Notice your reaction to certain foods and drinks.
If you find some to be a problem, avoid them to see
if your hot flashes are reduced.
- Drink plenty of water during the day. Stay hydrated
and cool to keep the heat at bay.
- Do some sort of exercise or movement activity every
day. Research shows that regular exercise reduces
the severity of hot flashes. Just be sure to exercise
earlier in the day and not just before bedtime or
you’ll defeat the purpose.
- Use a portable electric fan near or on your makeup
vanity. That blow dryer can really bring on the perspiration!
- Carry a paper fan or a battery operated mini-fan
in your purse for those unexpected flashes.
- Keep your bedroom cool with an overhead or bedside
fan, an open window, and/or air conditioning.
- Keep your body cool at night by sleeping on soft
100% cotton sheets, preferably with a high thread
count. The finest linens (220 thread count or above)
in solid colours have the most “cool power.”
- Smoking can also be a hot flash trigger. Of course,
it’s best if you can stop smoking. If you’re
not able to stop smoking, avoid lighting up in the
evenings.
- Wear cotton nightwear and underwear that allow your
skin to breathe. Another suggestion is a fabric called
CoolMax® that is designed to move perspiration
away from the body to the outer layer of the fabric
where it dries faster. A number of companies manufacture
nightwear from CoolMax fabric.
- Supplements that may help: Vitamin E, Evening Primrose
Oil, Vitamin B Complex, and Calcium and Magnesium.
(Always check with your physician before taking any
supplements.)
- Since stress can increase the severity of hot flashes,
consider relaxation tapes, biofeedback, massage, meditation,
visualization, or yoga.
- Avoid taking a hot bath or hot shower before going
to bed. If you must bathe before bedtime, take a cool
shower or tepid bath.
- Deep, slow breathing may help control a hot flash.
There’s research as well as anecdotal evidence
that it works.
- If you feel a flash coming on, immediately drink
a glass of cold water or iced herbal tea. If you’re
at home, open the refrigerator and stick your head
in the freezer. A bag of frozen vegetables placed
on your forehead is a great “flash buster.”
Cool packs and wraps are also helpful.
- If your hot flashes are severe and aren’t
alleviated by any of these self-help measures, talk
with your doctor. Certain medications (such as blood
pressure medicines, oestrogen add-back therapy, or
antidepressants) may be indicated.
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