Acupuncture helps hot flushes
- The menopause occurs at the average age of 53 years old.
- Hot flushes are one of the most common symptoms and go on for an average of 4 years. They are caused by the change in hormone levels.
- Approximately 70% of women will experience hot flushes and night sweats.
- Hot flushes may last between a few seconds and 10 minutes but an average is around 4 minutes. Frequency may be from every hour to a couple of times a week.
- There is a sensation of intense heat. It is difficult to ignore and women having hot flushes often fling open windows to cool down. Flushing and sweating may not be apparent to the observer but the sufferer tends to be very self-conscious of the affliction.
General medical advice is to: - Take regular exercise, wear lighter weight clothing, sleep in a cooler room, and reduce stress. - Avoid possible triggers, such as spicy foods, caffeine, smoking, and alcohol.
Acupuncture reduces hot flush severity and frequency
As well as taking this advice there are other options such as acupuncture which has been seen to help. I certainly see the benefit of acupuncture treatment to menopausal women in my clinic. Two recent studies also indicate that acupuncture works well for cooling down the intensity of hot flushes and reducing their frequency.
In a study of women who experienced at least 7 moderate to severe hot flushes a day, acupuncture was found to significantly decrease the severity by 28% compared to 6% in women in the control group. The frequency of flushes was also reduced.
Mark Bovey, of the British Acupuncture Council, said: "Our members have for many years successfully helped patients suffering from various menopausal symptoms."
"At a time when the body is undergoing numerous physical and emotional changes, acupuncture can help smooth the transition, providing relief from symptoms as well as an improved sense of well-being."
If you would like to find out if acupuncture could help you through the menopause please get in touch.