Health A-Z

Medical Content Created by the Faculty of the
Harvard Medical School

Hot Flashes

Prevention

Hot flashes related to menopause cannot be prevented. However, the following lifestyle changes may help to make hot flashes less severe or less frequent:

• Drink a glass of cool water at the beginning of a hot flash. This seems to lessen discomfort in some women. Also, be sure to drink enough water, usually six to eight glasses per day.

• Avoid drinking beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol, since these can make hot flashes more uncomfortable.

• Cut down on red wine, chocolate and aged cheeses. They contain a chemical that can trigger hot flashes by affecting the brain's temperature control center.

• Don't smoke. Smoking can make hot flashes worse.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing made of cotton to help absorb perspiration.

• Dress in layers, so that you can remove some clothing if you suddenly feel hot.

• Lower your home thermostat to keep your house cool. At work, open a window or use a small portable fan.

• At night, use lightweight blankets that can be removed if hot flashes wake you up.

Hot flashes related to menopause cannot be prevented. However, the following lifestyle changes may help to make hot flashes less severe or less frequent:

• Drink a glass of cool water at the beginning of a hot flash. This seems to lessen discomfort in some women. Also, be sure to drink enough water, usually six to eight glasses per day.

• Avoid drinking beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol, since these can make hot flashes more uncomfortable.

• Cut down on red wine, chocolate and aged cheeses. They contain a chemical that can trigger hot flashes by affecting the brain's temperature control center.

• Don't smoke. Smoking can make hot flashes worse.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing made of cotton to help absorb perspiration.

• Dress in layers, so that you can remove some clothing if you suddenly feel hot.

• Lower your home thermostat to keep your house cool. At work, open a window or use a small portable fan.

• At night, use lightweight blankets that can be removed if hot flashes wake you up.