Managing hot flashes

Why treat hot flashes?

Hot flashes are a normal part of perimenopause for most women. If yours are mild or infrequent, there is no need to treat them. However, it's common to look for relief of moderate to severe or frequent hot flashes that disrupt your daily life and sleep.

You may not have to "treat" hot flashes to prevent them or get them under control. Making healthy lifestyle choices is your best and first choice for hot flashes and can make a big difference in how your body handles the transition to menopause. However, if hot flashes are frequent and powerful, additional treatment may be needed to help you get enough sleep or lead a predictable daily life.

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Author:	Kathe Gallagher, MSW Carrie Henley	Last Updated: August 4, 2006
Medical Review:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Tom Bailey, MD - Family Medicine Carla J. Herman, MD, MPH - Internal Medicine
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