Ladies! Are you heating up with menopause?
You can often spot the peri-menopausal or menopausal woman from a distance. Flushed, dewy face fanning themselves madly, or hanging out under the air conditioning vent. Natural menopause often comes with a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, such as insomnia, anxiety, irritability, night sweats, and of course hot flashes. Of all the symptoms experienced during this hormonal shift, hot flashes are the single most common symptom reported by women. This condition is characterized by sudden feelings of intense heat combined with excessive perspiration and a rapid heartbeat. Hot flashes may last anywhere from 2 to 30 minutes, often occurring multiple times per day or night.
However, there is help. A recent study found acupuncture can reduce or eliminate some of these symptoms, improving quality life and reducing anxiety in women going through menopause. The study (click link here) found that women who were treated with acupuncture experienced fewer and less severe hot flashes, than those participants who were not treated with acupuncture. The study also indicates that acupuncture may help treat insomnia and sleep-related problems in women going through menopause.
Here's a great little video from the Mayo Clinic on using acupuncture for hot flashes.
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hot-flashes/multimedia/vid-20078410
Acupuncture treatments are given in a series starting twice weekly for 2-3 weeks, followed by weekly for 4 weeks, and then monthly or as needed to keep the hot flashes at bay. The severity of your symptoms, and your overall health will factor into the number of treatments needed.
In addition to acupuncture, nutrition and lifestyle changes can play a vital role in providing a smooth transition through menopause. For some women, using medicinal Chinese herbal formulas along with acupuncture is necessary for optimal results.
With the Summer heat on the way, hot flashes can increase in intensity and frequency. So reach out to the clinic to discuss treatment options.
Enjoy the summer, and stay cool! And yes....we have air conditioning!!
