The change aka menopause has taken up residence in my life. I knew there was a chance menopause early due to a partial hysterectomy in 2014. In 2018, I thought I was starting because I was experiencing hot flashes. My doctor ran a test that determined my “levels” are still in a normal range. But durning my annual in 2019, my on/GYN got a front row seat of my hot flashes and perceived an antidepressant. The relief while on that medication was short of miraculous. (I’m sorry, I don’t recall that prescription, because it’s changed as my insurance changed and my other prescriptions wasn’t doing shit.)
What is a hot flash? It’s like experiencing sitting under a dryer and it’s 100° and you’re watching someone read your diary from high school out loud to strangers. Then all of a sudden, someone tosses ice water in your face. And before you realized what is happening it’s over. As a woman, I have lost control of my body and my emotions. Also starting in my 40’s I have zero friends who have gone through it to advise me. As. Geriatric field social worker, I am in a lot of senior buildings and I gathered tips:
Like keeping fans in the car, purse, work, bedside… basically everywhere , here are a few:
- The importance of keeping a hand fan
- Keeping face towels on you
- Keep ice water close
- Dress in removable layers
- Keep a sweater near by no matter how hot it is outside
I am currently looking for natural remedies… So while I’m under quartile, flattening the curve, and socially distancing myself, I guess I’ll be doing so research and trying some shit out. I’ll keep you posted. If you’ve tried something that worked for you PLEASE shatter it in the comments.
Things to worry about….
- High blood pressure (a third of women experience higher blood pressure)
- Short term memory issues
- Heart disease
All jokes aside, frequent hot flashes can be your body telling you something might be wrong. So alway consult your doctor, if your symptoms change for the worse.
Deliberately dope 