Hot flushes and night sweats are one of those unwelcome symptoms of going through ‘the change’. These symptoms have affected women for thousands of years, and unfortunately, some of us are still feeling hot and sweaty! In the world of modern medicine, hormone therapy or HRT is often the go-to solution, but it has limitations and some of us would like a more natural and traditional solution. This is where Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers you an alternative, holistic approach to helping you manage those unwanted hot and sweaty moments.

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Related Chinese Medical Symptoms

As far as Chinese Medicine is concerned there is an extensive list of related symptoms. You may be experiencing one or more: hot flushes, night sweats, cold hands and feet, depressed mood, profuse, frequent clear and or pale urination, low energy, low libido, chilliness, backache, oedema (swelling) of ankles, feeling slightly agitated or teary, dry throat and mouth, dizziness, tinnitus, dry skin and hair or have constipation.

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Other Related Problems

Associated problems include:

• Sleep disturbances
• Mood changes
• Memory difficulties

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Prevalence

Research has shown 57% of women experiece hot flushes and night sweats during perimenopause and menopause.

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Causes

Biomedical view

Vasomotor symptoms (VMS), like hot flushes and night sweats, are common menopausal issues that many women seek treatment for. They happen because of hormonal changes affecting body temperature regulation. Our body usually keeps its core temperature steady, fluctuating naturally throughout the day. Processes that either keep heat in or release it help maintain this balance, crucial for organ function. When this system goes awry, it leads to heightened responses to heat loss, causing VMS.

Chinese medical view

Hot flushes and night sweats can have several causes, but commonly they may be caused by stress, and emotions such as worry, fear and anxiety. Other causes may include overwork and giving birth, with small gaps in between each birth.

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Treatments

Biomedical

• Menopausal hormone therapy
• Antidepressants
• Gabapeptin
• Clonidine

Chinese Medicine

Chinese medicine may help reduce hot flushes and night sweats. Some research can be found by a systematic review for Chinese herbal medicine and a systematic review for acupuncture. The benefits are a holistic approach that addresses the root cause, as well as help alleviate the symptoms. Treatments may include:

1. Acupuncture
2. Chinese herbal medicine
3. Dietary advice
4. Moxibustion
5. Exercises such as Qi Gong or Tai Chi

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Managing your Symptoms

Avoid triggers

• Alcohol
• Spicy food
• Hot drinks
• Caffeine
• Smoking

Reduce stress

Activities such as:

• Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong
• Breathing and relaxing techniques
• Regular exercise
• Counselling such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Healthy living

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Regular exercise

Clothing

• Consider clothing and bedding that has layers, is breathable such as cotton
• Separate sleeping doona or blanket if you share a bed

Hot flushes and night sweats may affect those at the end of their reproductive stage. These symptoms of perimenopause/menopause are uncomfortable, can disrupt our much-needed sleep, and can be a daily occurrence during our daily lives. While Western medicine provides solutions, Chinese Medicine offers an alternative approach rooted in ancient wisdom and holistic care. By understanding the unique perspectives of both systems, you can make informed choices about managing your symptoms, potentially finding relief, and improving your overall well-being.