Coping with Hot Flashes, Anxiety, and Night Sweats: A Woman's Journey

As I sit down to write this, I remember so vividly, my own menopause journey, fighting off a wave of heat that seemed to radiate from within, leaving me flushed and sweaty. Hot flashes, anxiety, and night sweats – these became unwelcome and frequent visitors on my journey through menopause. While I may not have chosen this path, I learned that managing the symptoms was crucial for reclaiming some sense of normalcy in my life.

Hot flashes, those sudden surges of heat that can leave you feeling like you're standing in the middle of a desert while everyone else enjoys a cool breeze. They strike without warning, often at the most inconvenient times, and can make even the simplest tasks feel like Herculean feats. But do not, fear fellow menopausal warriors, for there are ways to tame the flames.

First and foremost, I found that identifying triggers were incredibly helpful. For me, spicy foods, caffeine, and stress were the major culprits, so I've made a conscious effort to reduce my intake of these triggers. Instead, I opted for cooling foods like cucumber and melon, and I practiced relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation to keep stress at bay.

Of course, there were times when even the best-laid plans didn’t prevent a hot flash from striking, especially in stressful meeting situations. I always ensured on meeting days I had the insight to layer my clothing. By wearing lightweight, breathable fabrics that could be easily removed, I was able to quickly adapt to changes in temperature without breaking a sweat – literally.

And then there was the dreaded night sweats, those nocturnal episodes of sweating profusely that can leave you feeling like you've just emerged from a sauna. Not only do they disrupt sleep, but they also produced anxiety provoking feelings, creating a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break. But break it was a must, and so I adopted a few strategies to help me cope.

One thing that made a significant difference for me was creating a comfortable sleep environment. This meant keeping my bedroom cool and dark, investing in moisture-wicking bedding, and wearing lightweight pyjamas made from natural fibres or no night ware at all. I also found relief in the form of cooling pillows and mattress toppers, which helped regulate my body temperature throughout the night. I was lucky I didn’t need to share the bed with A N OTHER, so this gave me more space to remain cool.  

In addition to these practical measures, I found that seeking support from friends and healthcare professionals was essential. Simply knowing that I was not alone in my struggle was immensely comforting, and my doctor was very good at listening. She was instrumental in helping me finally acknowledge that I required some treatment to manage my symptoms effectively. She suggested if I wished to continue functioning in my management role,  then I should consider some options.  From hormone therapy to alternative therapies like acupuncture and herbal supplements, there were a variety of options available, and finding the right approach came with some trial and error. 

Ultimately, navigating the ups and downs of menopause requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to prioritise self-care. While hot flashes, anxiety, and night sweats may be challenging to deal with, they are also a reminder of the incredible resilience of the female body. So, to all my fellow menopausal sisters out there, I say this: we may be hot, sweaty messes at times, but we are also strong, resilient, and capable of weathering any storm that comes our way. 

As a clinical hypnotherapist and mindset coach I offer ladies an opportunity to have a different perspective of the menopause and to find ways to manage it as part of the transition of life.

Stay cool, stay calm, and remember – this too shall pass.

This blog post is a personal narrative meant for informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance and treatment options.

Rosy Wilson 10th March 2024