How to Handle Hot Flashes and Menopause Symptoms

     Hot flashes that come and go may accompany menopause and leave you miserable. Hot flashes that started at the waist and moved up until reaching the face in a deep flush with searing heat were a curse of mine for weeks. After searching how to handle hot flashes and menopause symptoms, a visit to the gynecologist was in order and thereafter, blood was drawn to test hormone levels.

A gynecologist, or any doctor, really, can prescribe a wide variety of estrogen/progesterone solutions based on your blood test results in order to level out your hormones - which usually eliminates hot flashes. Ask about patches, sprays, creams, and pills and see which one your doctor prefers.

In my case, results have been great using a Prometrium pill (progesterone) in addition to Evamist brand estradiol spray. Sorry to say that Estroven (a natural menopause-symptom relief pill that can be found at your local drug store/over the counter) did not alleviate intense heat flashes in my case, but it could work for YOU -- Each of is different and no one-solution-fits-all/

Whatever you do, don't give up on seeking relief! Your sanity is worth it! We've done a lot of research and came up with these worthy ideas about how to handle hot flashes and menopause symptoms.

Look for cold places to hang out if you are experiencing hot weather and menopause simultaneously. Visit an ice rink for instant cold-air relief ... you may even need a sweater! Take ice skating or hockey lessons and have fun with family and friends while showing off your new skills.

Alternatively, consider using three menopause relief products tested on the Rachel Ray Show:

1. "Flash Eaz" finger bands apply acupressure and may help with symptoms of menopause
2. "Restore" Hot Flash Aid Spray
3.    The "Chillow" Add 8-9 c. water to this waterproof pillow slip and place it inside your pillow case. Reviews say that the Chillow is cooling to rest your head on for about 20 minutes per side. Why not try the Chillow on your chest or beneath your calves for extra cooling comfort? Maybe we need 2 or 3 Chillows to pack ourselves into the bed similar to frozen food!

High Magnifying Mirror - What Does Yours Say?

  What does your high magnifying mirror say? Hopefully, not much.
Nothing is crueler than a 5x or 10x high magnifying mirror. You know the kind of mirror we're talking about...a mirror that allows you to look close, really close, at your face. Pay attention to what you see, however, because your high magnifying mirror may say some things you should consider listening to.

1. See if you neglect grooming your eyebrows. A 5x high magnifying mirror will tell you "yes" or "no." 
2. Notice if there are small red veins along the surface of your skin that need attention.
3. Look at pores, which might seem ordinary when you look in an average mirror, but a high magnifying mirror lets you see if there are any enlarged pores on your face - - especially around the nose. It might be time to schedule a facial treatment.
4. Search for unwanted hair growing in areas of your face. Look in a high magnifying mirror to check along your jaw, upper lip and chin area for unwanted hair. Consider the many different ways to rid your face and neck of inappropriate hair growth. (See our article about getting rid of hair growth on this site.)
5. Check your neck for sprigs of hair that sprout for no apparent reason on middle aged women.  
6. Use creams that are targeted for deep wrinkles, such as products by Olay or L'Oreal or ask your dermatologist for something stronger that may lightly peel top layers of skin for renewing effects.

Lastly, if your high magnifying mirror tells you that your eyes are bloodshot or yellow; or your skin is uneven in color -- make an appointment with a dermatologist or doctor to be certain that your do not have underlying health issues. You are worth it.