Waking Up Hot And Sweaty

Learn about a woman whose hot flashes are taking over her nights.

Case #: 937

Concern：

Recently in the last two months I have been experiencing some weird symptoms. I am waking up completely soaked from sweating, and I have a racing heartbeat at night. What could this be, and how can I stop this? It's really uncomfortable.

Discussion：

We all know it's no fun getting older. As women it feels as if our bodies are constantly changing because we battle things like mood swings, cramping, and headaches on a monthly basis. But when those old faithful period pains begin to become fewer and farther away, a whole new set of symptoms seem to weasel their way into our lives. The headaches and cramping start to seem like a piece of cake compared to the depression and hot flashes that menopause brings along with it.

The Menopause Effect

In this case in particular, I have a feeling that what you're experiencing is simply hot flashes. I know that these flashes can be very uncomfortable, as I've heard it described by friends as, “literally baking inside of your own skin.” Sneaking a midnight snack takes on a whole new purpose once the flashes set in. All thoughts of tasty treats are forgotten once the cool air of the fridge floats across your skin.

Disco Inferno

Some of the most common symptoms of menopause are low sex drive, fatigue, and hot flashes. Many women experience all three of these at the same time. This is because during the transition of menopause, the levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, leading the ovaries to begin conducting business differently. You may have noticed the last time you had a period was quite a while ago, or your week of regular menstruation was cut short. Either outcome would be the result of pre-menopause.

The night sweating is also attributed to 'the change.' Night sweats are a reaction of the nervous system to high amounts of pituitary LH/FSH or adrenal epinephrine being released during sleep.

Luckily, there are better ways to deal with hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause than simply standing in front of an open refrigerator. You may start with your diet. Easting whole fruits and vegetables and complex carbohydrates high in protein will help to reduce the high temperatures of hot flashes. You should also exercise regularly and be sure you are getting enough sleep each night.

Herbs To The Rescue

I would also highly recommend getting on a regular regimen of natural herbs to help to balance out those fluctuating hormones. (SEE: Herbal Formula for Hot Flash Relief) This will help your body make the transition into post menopause so much easier. Herbs such as Mexican Wild Yam, Pueraia, Mirifica, and Dong Quia are great mood elevators and estrogen boosters. During menopause, your estrogen levels will hit an all time low, building that particular hormone back up will become the secret key to living a regular and fulfilling life. The herbs will also stave off any dramatic mood swings, this will help your chances of bypassing the depressive moods that can take over a woman's mind during this time.