Menopause’s hot flashes are frustrating and enough to make you go mad! In the cancer world, certain types of surgeries or treatments can throw women into early menopause that is temporary or permanent. Here are five helpful tips–lifestyle suggestions and products to enable you to keep your cool when menopause’s hot flashes heat up!

• Dress for Success

Dress in loose layers that are easy to take on and off to keep you comfortable as you go from hot-to-cold to hot again. (Yikes!) For the first layer, start with a soft cotton bra or camisole beneath a cotton shirt. Cover with a lightweight sweater, blazer or long scarf. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or silk for clothes and sleepwear.

• Drink Up

Keep an insulated water bottle filled with cold water to stay hydrated and to cool down. Staying hydrated may steady body temperatures. Avoid alcohol and if possible, caffeine.

• Eat Smart

Spicy foods, high-fat diets and even food served hot can heat you up. Try eating food that is  room temperature or cool. Opt for a well-rounded diet rich in calcium, magnesium and vitamin D. Avoid heavy meals as they take longer to digest particularly before sleep.

• Cool It!

Think personal fans (paper and battery-driven) chilling pillows, a neck cooler and cool jewelry. Key areas to keep cool are the neck, under the arms and in the groin area. For a quick fix, place an ice cube or cold wash cloth on these spots.

• Calm Down

Hot flashes can increase during a time of stress. Stress reduction techniques like guided breathing, meditation, yoga and walking can help. 

To read more about menopause, here is an article from Healthline sharing the names of the top menopause blogs and bloggers.