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hothead
I chose my screen name "hothead" because that is what is driving me crazy. I don't sweat, my scalp is just burning up and feels like my brains are frying.It makes sort of a heavy , tingly feeling in the back of my head and also makes me feel fogged out.

I have had the usual night sweats , so I do know what they are--but I have never heard anyone describe hot flashes  as a "hot head".Has anyone here had this type of thing with meno?

I am on HRT ( presently Ogen and Crinone) and most other symptoms are gone, but this still hits me usually late afternoon and evening. I find myself filing little baggies with ice chips and holding it on my head, face, cheeks--ahhh that is temprorary relief anyway.

I am new here and have been reading for a while , so thought it was time I jumped in and joined you.I can relate to so much of what you are all going through. I also get the internal shaking thing--usually at night just before I drop off to sleep. Will write about that at the other board.

Nice to meet you all and thanks for any info about this "hot head stuff".

Snowbird
Hothead, Hi'ya!!

Welcome aboard:)I'm so glad you have joined us!! You'll find this a great place you can come, to learn and grow, in what's happening in the menopausal body!! Plus you'll make friends along the way;)As for the Hothead, (love that name)....the only thing I can say to identify, is, when I'm feeling a hormonal surge, I get a tingly feeling all over my head!! That becomes a BURNING sensation, on the scalp and face!! It's almost like someone poured gasoline on me and through a match!ohmy.gif:(Sometimes, I'll have a headache with it....sometimes not!!

I use an ice pack!! I put it on my head....it seems to be the only thing that works!! It's not as bad as it use to be, as my meno trip is winding down, (I hope)...but I do know they are associated with the hormone fluctuations that occur at the time!!  I use to take HRT.....strangely enough, it only made this particular symptom worse!sad.gifI've gone off all HRT, 2 years ago and the hotheads are very few and far between now!! *Phew*

It's interesting you described it that way, cuz, it's quite accurate!! If others experience this too, I'm sure they will come on line and share their fun stuff with hotheads:biggrin:

Again, Welcome and keep posting.....................wink.gif

(((((((Hugs from a Canadian Gal))))))))            Nancy (a.k.a. Snowy)

SylvryMoon
Hiya Snowy and Hothead!Yep, I get all flushed in the face, and sweaty too.  But the hot face, scalp, ears, and neck are what really drive me nuts.  People comment sometimes that I'm "red" in the face.  I say, Yes, I'm having a Power Surge!  Sometimes at work, I'll go into the bathroom and put cold paper towels on my neck, and that helps too, like your ice chips.

The Revival has helped somewhat.  I've been on it for 3 months, and am going to take a month off, just to see what happens.  But it's no fun.  Especially in this hot, humid summer we've had.

Oh well.  It's always something, I guess.  :biggrin:Hugs!

hothead
Thanks Nancy and Slvrymoon !

Actually I don't get this hot head thing as long lasting as I used to--I really think HRT has helped a lot ( long story--have been on different types a long the way).

I just didn't know whether to blame this one on hormones or not. I also have recently been diagnosed with SLE, but really don't seem to have a lot of lupus symptoms--more hormonal stuff.I wasn't sure with no "sweat" involved if this was to blame on the estrogen fluctutations.

But...... last night I think I got some confirmation that this is indeed hormonal. I'm on cyclical HRT and have been doing well in that regard with Crinone--period comes right on time with this method  for me. But this month I continued to have brown spotting, and yesterday was day 14--started eating like a pig yesterday afternoon, and last night was up with cramps and bleeding that picked up just like a typical period. Also woke up a few times with that hot flash feeling coming over me. This definitely an extra period thrown into the middle of my cycle. I am really sick of this!

So, putting it all together, I think the bad "hot head thing" yesterday was part of this hormonal mess.I think I may need to up my Ogen dose and see if that evens things out a bit.

Thanks again and I will be sticking around and hope I can help some others having a rough time also!

X0

Kate (AKA hothead)

Aunt B
QUOTE
Quote: from hothead on 11:42 am on Sep. 8, 2001[br]Thanks Nancy and Slvrymoon !

Actually I don't get this hot head thing as long lasting as I used to--I really think HRT has helped a lot ( long story--have been on different types a long the way).

I just didn't know whether to blame this one on hormones or not. I also have recently been diagnosed with SLE, but really don't seem to have a lot of lupus symptoms--more hormonal stuff.I wasn't sure with no "sweat" involved if this was to blame on the estrogen fluctutations.

But...... last night I think I got some confirmation that this is indeed hormonal. I'm on cyclical HRT and have been doing well in that regard with Crinone--period comes right on time with this method  for me. But this month I continued to have brown spotting, and yesterday was day 14--started eating like a pig yesterday afternoon, and last night was up with cramps and bleeding that picked up just like a typical period. Also woke up a few times with that hot flash feeling coming over me. This definitely an extra period thrown into the middle of my cycle. I am really sick of this!

So, putting it all together, I think the bad "hot head thing" yesterday was part of this hormonal mess.I think I may need to up my Ogen dose and see if that evens things out a bit.

Thanks again and I will be sticking around and hope I can help some others having a rough time also!

X0

Kate (AKA hothead)

Hello Hothead and welcome,

Well I am 50 also, have had almost all of the symptoms, but the hot head nooooo.  I missed that one.  Thank God.  My hot flashes begin from the waist up, but my face does not turn red.  I just sweat.  Ugggghhh this is awful.

Like our meno buds say it does get better with time.

Welcome and there is alot of info on these boards.  These gals have helped me tremendously.

Huggssss

hothead
Hi Aunt B,

Isn't 50 fun??? I DID mean that sarcastically.As if it isn't hard enough to swallow that number.....we have to deal with all this other nonsense.

If I make it up to heaven--well, let me tell you I am scheduling a looong talk with our Maker----he did a big booboo here.

Glad you haven't had this hot head stuff--I can handle a flahs and a sweat better than these--makes your head feel as thought it will blow up--not pain, just explosive and HOT.

thanks for the welcome !!!

XO

Kate ( aka hothead)

Yankeegal
Hi - Sounds like we've got a "50 yr. old club" here!  I'm also 50, and I've got a question about the hot flashes.  I've been with my friend, who's already gone through meno, when her face would suddenly flush, and turn red and sweaty.  I haven't had that, but I always seem to feel degrees hotter than everyone else!  I am constantly saying, "Is it hot in here?" LOL  And it didn't seem to always be this way......  I just wondered if this is part of it, or just that my internal thermostat is out of whack!   Thanks for any input, and good luck to all!
Snowbird
Yangeegal, G'morning to ya;)

I use ta....turn red, (face and neck), everytime I had a flash!! Looked like a tomato:o:o  I always hated it, when the OLDER woman would notice, and say, "Hey, Nancy....why are you SO red??" Grrr! As if they didn't know:angry:Now.....that I'm 50 something *ahem* wink.gifI just get~~~HOT~~~ohmy.gif I'm always sweating.....I shouldn't say always....cuz, this year it's finally starting to ease!! Yippee!!But I'd feel like the air temp went up several degrees.....and stayed there:angry:  However, I wasn't getting red in the face anymore!!  I was just sweating!! *Sigh*So, I think it can change as we do...or it's just different for different gals!!wink.gif Hopefully all this ~~Heat~~ will soon be over!!

Take care,((((Hugs from a Canadian Chick)))            Nancy (a.k.a.Snowy)

Yankeegal
Hi there, Snowbird!Thanks for the input on "heating up"!  I've just always heard about the flushes and flashes, and wasn't sure if the Power Surge could be so steady!  LOL  I just came inside and turned on the A.C., because I'm roasting!  Glad yours is starting to ease up a bit anyway...
jeanne
Hi ladies,I also had the hothead stuff and assumed it was from hot flashes. I would wet a towel and put it on my head or neck. Also wiping my arms and chest and face with cool water helped me some too. Hugs, jeanne
sherl
Hi ,There    I have the hot head at the start of my hot flash, then I sweat so bad it rolls down my face and drips of my nose before I can get somthing to wipe my face.I sure hope this gets better.I just found this site yesterday, It has help me so much. thank you all!  sherl
Snowbird
sherl, Hi!!

Aren't those hot heads awful??!!  I hated them!!  Thank God they're pretty well over...........I hope!! *Sigh*

Just call us,             **HOT STUFF**             (((((Hugs y'all)))))   from a HOT Snowy-One, trying to be :cool:

sherl
Hi, SnowbirdThanks for answering my e-mail...I hope your's is about over too! It sounds like you have been through it all.

((cool day to all))

Cmi
Hi ladies,I'm new to this..but lately I wake up in the middle of the night and feel hot flushed all over my body..I'm 38 and my doc thinks I could be starting peri-menopausal yet my periods are normal and regular..I'm kind of scared about this.  I'm getting blood work done to check all my hormone levels..thanks for listening
jeanne
Hi Cmi,Don't be scared sweetie , this is just the next phase we women go through. And learning about it at the beginning is great. There are many symptoms that a woman can get and hot flashes is one of them.Sounds like you have a good doctor there,a lot of them won't even think of perimenopause with a woman your age. Don't be scared though it will be fine. In the mean time learn all you can about it on the homepage of Power surge there is so much information. And be sure to come here with any problems or questions. No question is taboo , if it bothers you chances are someone here will have the same concern. There is so much caring for each other here that you will get plenty of support.  Remember to ask anything . No question is too small or embarassing. smile.gif You will do fine smile.gif hope to talk to you again soon, hugs jeanne
Snowbird
Cmi, (((Hugs)))

What you're feeling is perfectly normal!! I can certainly relate to it!! Changes going on and not knowing, can cause emotions to run amuck!!I'm glad you found us!!smile.gif It's a good place to learn all about what's happening!!  Educating ourselves, is the best thing one can do!!  Menopause is normal....and learning all you can....plus having an understanding doctor, will help tremendously!!

The main thing is you're not alone here....we all know what you're going through!!  Feel free to come and ask questions anytime or just vent when you need too;)

Feeling hot and flushed, is so normal.....once you understand that....it's easier to deal with!!

Take care....chin up....you'll be fine;)

((((((Hugs))))) ~*Snowy*~

Cmi
Hi!

Thank you for your support and love. I'm glad to have you all to help me through this..it's so new to me.  I'll start reading more on this especially if their are alternative treatments that would help.  Lots of love,Caroline smile.gif

pinkpetals
Hi, I am 41 and will be 42 next month.  I have been sweating alot and never knew for sure if hot flashes were sweating.  I do something that doesn't require a lot of activity like, mopping or vacumming, really anything and I look like I just ran a race!  My face all sweaty and hair wet like I'd taken a shower.  It's embarrasing too.  Just standing talking to someone could bring on a sweat or my glasses will fog up.  I just got my period two weeks later than the last. years ago I had a lot of brown before and after period and could have 2 periods in one month.  Does this all sound like perimenapause.  What's good to take for the sweating?  Mary Kay
Linda F
Hey ladies - sounds just like me! It is so embarrassing to be hot all the time and sweating like a pig after vacuuming! I'm almost 40 and this started for me  when I turned 38.  Hang in. Knowing what it is takes a lot of the fear away. (I always think I've burst into fever and have beri-beri or something) Love, Linda F
SylvryMoon
Hi my normal peri- and meno- friends!

Just an update!  On Sept 8th I said I'd be going off the Revival for a month to see what happens and changes.  Well, today it's been 2 weeks off the Revival.  And guess what . . . The red nose, red face, red everything is back with the hot flashes.  I guess that sold it for me.  I'll be ordering Revival tomorrow.  It's well worth the $50 or so per month -- just so I don't look like I've been drinking at 10 a.m. !!!

Meanwhile, I'm also waking up in the wee hours of the a.m. with sweaty head and sweaty bed.  And it's just not worth it.  I see my doc in about 3 weeks, and can't wait to tell her all the symptoms.  Meanwhile, I'm going to deal with them myself.  

Maybe I should have posted this on the Revival board, as a testimonial.  But meanwhile, I think it applies here too.

Snowbird
Sylvry, Hi'ya!!Looks like you found your savior or at least the next best thing:biggrin:That's good news...wish I could take it!!  I've heard good things about it...but alas...I broke out in hives!! Grrrr!You go girl...always love that good news;)(((Hugs)))~*Snowy*~
raeh
well i have been taking my zoloft, black cohosh and valerian root for about a month and i see changes. i had my last period 18 days ago. my next one came just 2 days ago. (earlier). i have no hotflashes and no mood swings. i have been sleeping so much better. i noticed i sleep more when period comes but thats about all. wow what a change. and i had no fatigue this month. oh man i hope this lasts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cmi
Hi everyone,This past week I haven't had the "hot flash"  feeling in the early a.m.  I'm wondering since I'm at the age (38) of perimenopause..do the hot flashes come and go in the peri stage and get worse as I go through menopause?? I'm sure glad I can chat with you ladies about this because sometimes you feel like you're on your own.  Love, Caroline
Kalanie
Hi Mary Kay...

It sure sounds like hot flashes to me, and similar to what I used to experience quite regularly.  Hot flashes and night sweats usually occur from the chest up.  I would wake up in the morning just drenching, and my hair would be totally wet.  I am 53 and peri... mine began about 4 years or so ago at age 48 or 49, but we are all different with the symptoms as well as age of onset.  

I have found relief with bio-identical hormones, but there are many suggestions about other forms of relief here at PowerSurge.  Check the "Recommendations" page, it has alot of great information!  

I do not know about the periods you are having, as I am still having fairly regular ones... just minor spotting in the beginning and after making it drag out longer.  I have not had experience with a brown discharge, although I have seen many posts by other women here similar to yours. I am sure someone might have some input on that for you.

jeanne
Hi Cmi,I have hot flashes even now after being postmeno for about 2 years. I only get them rarely now, but does answer your question about whether they come and go. As for getting worse-well that is an individual thing also. I had a period of about a year when they were just non-stop it seemed. And then they started to taper off. There is help out there for them , but I never took anything . Some of the other ladies will be able to help you there, or as Kalanie said, please check out the recommendation page. take care , hugs, jeanne
MARSBAR
LAST NIGHT MY FACE AND NECK GOT ALL RED  AND HOT AND MY BLOOD PRESSURE WENT UP TO 201/113.  IT LASTED FOR ALMOST 2 HOURS.  I TOOK  A XANEX AND A COOL SHOWER AND FINALLY IT WENT AWAY AND MY BLOOD PRESSURE WENT TO NORMAL.  I HAVE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE THAT IS MOSTLY CONTROLLED WITH A BETA BLOCKER.  I HAVE HAD THIS HAPPEN ONCE IN AWHILE BUT NEVER THIS LONG.  WAS IT A HOT FLASH OR A THYROID PROBLEM.  I ALSO HAVE A LITTLE BIT OF FLUSHING AT 4 OR 5 A.M. AFTER I LET THE DOG OUT.  I WAS READING SOME OF THE OLDER POSTS AND HAD COPIED ONE ABOUT CORTISOL BEING THE HIGHEST THEN.  I AM 53 AND HAD SURGICAL MENOPAUSE AT 31.  IT SEEMS THE REST OF MY BODY IS GOING THROUGH MENOPAUSE NOW.  BOY JUST WHEN THINGS ARE GOING ALONG OK.......OUT OF THE BLUE SOMETHING LIKE THIS HAPPENS.  ITS SCARY HAVING YOUR BLOOD PRESURE (IS THERE ONE S OR 2? CANT REMEMBER??!!) LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU ALL THINK.  IT SEEMS LIKE THERE IS SO MUCH TO COMPLAIN ABOUT, BUT WHAT A GOOD PLACE TO DO IT.
jeanne
Hi Mars, That must have been pretty scary. I would have been at the ER if it were me. Since I have had a stroke and heart attack I can't afford to let that happen.Since you already know you have high blood pressure, I would definitely tell the doc what happened. It may be that you need a better control for highblood pressure. Wven with a hot flash , that reading is way too high and I'm a little concerned. So after the weekend I would give doctor a call,just to see what he/she recommends. In my opinion only , but readings should not go that high if you have meds to control it.Take care and let me know what happens :)hugs, jeanne
Snowbird
Mars, hi!!I know the feeling, hon!! That's happened to me a couple or so times:o I immediately dashed to ER....(I too have hypertention, controlled by a beta blocker)!!  ER, each time....layed me down for a few hours...monitored me...'till the B/P was back to norm, and sent me home!! After the third time....with no answers....I decided to have a chat with my doc!!  He, said...as long as it (B/P), comes down in a reasonable time, there's nothing to worry about...."it could be a severe hot flash!!"  I asked him what a reasonable time was....he said, within a few hours!!  Aaaargh!!  Talk about a ballpark figure....I mean...I was sure I was about to have a heart attack in ER!! Told him that....he laughed....said, "Nah...they wouldn't let that happen!"My last episode was almost a year ago!

The doc, is probably right tho'....it's nothing to worry about as long as the B/P comes done, (in a reasonable time) and is meno related!!Just the same I'm going to keep an eye on the situation....like you, I have high blood pressure....and it's nothing to poohoo about;)

BTW....my pressure has gone up to 200/115!! The norm for me is 135 or 140/85!!

Take good care;)

((((Hugs)))))~*Snowy*~

Callie
This is for raeh:  I  was on Zoloft for a year or so.  I noticed that , after the initial increased anxiety wore off, I slept a lot better.  And for awhile, the hot flashes and night sweats were better.  But later on, even with the Zoloft, I again had flashes and sweats. ( Of course, one of the side effects of Zoloft is increased sweating, so I'm not sure exactly what was going on.)  All I know is that sometimes I had flashes and sweating, and sometimes not.  If  your flashes and sweats increase, it might just be the Zoloft.  Sometimes our bodies can change after being on medications awhile, I guess.
MARSBAR
DEAR SNOWBIRD AND JEANNE.  THANKS FOR YOUR REPLIES.  I HAVE BEEN READING THESE BOARDS  FOR QUITE SOMETIME AND YOU ARE BOTH SO HELPFUL.  I HAVE BEEN OUT OF TOWN AND LAST NIGHT IT HAPPENED AGAIN --IT WAS 208/115---SCARY!!!  AND THEN THIS A.M IT WAS 135/75--WEIRD.  I TOO HAVE HAD A DOCTOR TELL ME NOT TO WORRY AS MUCH IF IT GOES  DOWN IN A COUPLE OF HOURS.  DO EITHER OF YOU KNOW ABOUT ADRENALIN?  SOMETIMES I FEEL I HAVE AN ADRENALIN PROBLEM. THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR INPUT. YOU GUYS ARE GREAT.
jeanne
Hi Mars,Yes , adrenilin can make you BP go way up. I had a nuse be mean to me in the hospital when I had a heart attack and my BP went way up because of my adrenalin pumping. Needless to say my doctor wasn't very happy with that nurse. Any anxiety can cause it to go way up too, since that also causes an adenalin rush. So it might not be anything wrong with your adrenal glands as much as plain old anxiety. I'm glad it goes down by itself though.  Take care. hugs, jeanne
Snowbird
Mars. I agree with jeanne;)

My doctor, would have told me, (and has)...in your place...."since the B/P went down, it's normal."  Adrenalin can play a role in it....did for me...the hot flash....(hormone flucs) caused the adrenalin to go wild!!  It's the anxiety thing....in fact ...I went through that last night!!  I have a B/P kit....woke up soaking wet....after a flash....took my B/P, it was 200/110!! Yikes!!  Then within a couple of hours....I was fine!!  *Sheesh* I know.....I hate it....but I hafta keep telling myself....."as long as it (B/P) goes down....it's OK!!"  Still doesn't make it feel any better.....can be darn scary:o....but benign;) **Phew**

Hope you're feeling better today.....I'm still edgy....but OK!!God luv ya;)((((Huggers)))) ~*Snowy*~

MARSBAR
DEAR SNOWBIRD---YIKES ON THE B.P. THAT'S WHAT MINE WAS THE OTHER NIGHT.  TONIGHT IT IS NORMAL.  GO FIGURE!!!  I AM STILL WAKING UP AT 4:30 A.M.  I AM FINE WHILE I AM LAYING IN BED, BUT THEN I GET UP AND GO TO THE BATHROOM AND I LAY BACK DOWN I FEEL ALL THIS ANXIETY AND MY HEART POUNDING.  I READ SOMEWHERE IN ONE OF THE OLD POSTS THAT CORTISOL IN OUR BODIES PEAKS AT 4 -5 A.M. BUT WHY DO WE FEEL IT SO STRONGLY? I TAKE .50 MG. XANEX AND EVENTUALLY GO BACK TO SLEEP AND WHEN I WAKE UP AGAIN I AM FINE.  I HAVE TAKEN MY B.P AT THIS TIME AND IT IS UP.  IT IS SO GREAT TO TALK TO OTHERS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM--OTHERWISE I WOULD THINK I WAS NUTS.  I REALLY DON'T FEEL GOOD WHEN MY B.P IS THAT HIGH AND IT IS SCARY.  SOMETIMES IT TAKES 2 HOURS TO GO BACK DOWN.  MEANWHILE I WORRY I AM GOING TO HAVE A STROKE.  I WENT OFF CAFFEINE, BUT DIDN'T MAKE A DIFFERENCE.  HANG IN THERE GIRL AND THANKS FOR WRITING BACK.
Snowbird
Mars, Hi!!

The Bird went through it again last night:o:o Altho' the B/P wasn't too bad.....but the anxiety sure was nasty!! I think you're right about the cortisol peaking at 4ish.....I read that somewhere myself!!Right now....I'm going through hormone fluctuations....don't know if I'm going to have another period or a phantom one.....either way.....the symptoms are the same!! *Sigh*  This could go on for days even weeks with me!!sad.gif

B/P last night was 160/100....so that wasn't too bad!!  Problem is, I'm not sleeping well AGAIN!!  I did take a Xanax...25mg....maybe I should have taken .50mg!!  If it continues tonight, I will....I just hate it when I don't sleep!!  I then get those vivid dreams and agitations, (anxiety attacks) along with it:o:oEven tho' I know it's normal.....sorta speak....I still hate it!! Grrrrrr!!!I know it will pass.....always does!!  I should have come on line this morning....when I couldn't sleep....but I was too lazy:biggrin:

Well, there's always tonight....we'll see what happens;)

Take care, my friend.........I'll be thinking of ya;)

((((((((Huggers)))))))))    ~*Snowy*~

MARSBAR
SNOWBIRD, YOU MAY GET THIS NOTE TWICE.  (CAUSE MY BRAIN IS NOT IN GEAR)  TRY TAKING XANEX  AT 4:00 A.M. THAT IS WHEN I TAKE MINE.  I TRY .25 AND IF IT DOESN'T WORK I TAKE ANOTHER .25.  MAKES IT A LITTLE HARD TO GET UP LATER, BUT ITS NOT TOO BAD.  MY QUIRKY STORY IS I HAD A COMPLETE HYSTERECTOMY AT 31 AND I AM 53.  I HAD SEVERE PANIC ATTACKS AFTER THE SURGERY---WENT ON MEDICATION (STILL ON IT)  I HAD HRT (HORMONE PELLET INJECTIONS) FOR ABOUT 15 YRS. AND STOPPED THEM A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO.  NOW  IT FEELS LIKE THE REST OF MY BODY IS GOING THROUGH MENO.  (HOT FLASHES, ANXIETY)  OH WELL SOMEHOW WE WILL GET THROUGH IT.  THANKS FOR WRITING TO ME.  LOVE YOUR NOTES--THEY ARE CREATIVE!!!  HANG IN THERE.  
Rene
Oh, dear.  I just made the "mistake" of reading the Power Surge leadpage about hot flashes which warn that you cna't assume they are caused by menopause, that they can be a sign of a medical disease.

The old hypochondria is setting in.

Does anyone have anything to offer on this? - Rene

jeanne
Hi Rene,Yes, I have something to add. There may be other things that cause this feeling, I don't know which they are and that really isn't the point. You do know of one thing you DO have and that is symptoms of menopause. Hot flashes being one of the LEADING symptoms. Chances of it being from something else are almost nil. Having bleeding from the nose could be a sign of ebola virus or it could be from a good punch . I think that is about what your chances of having hot flashes from another source would be. Since you know you have a tendency towards hypochondria , try to talk to yourself and the reasons it IS hormonal. 1.your age2.erratic periods , etc. If you have a headache , you could take two asprin or go see a brain surgeon. I'd try the asprin smile.gifI'm being silly on some of this , but it is just to assure you that since you are in good health otherwise , hot flashes from meno seem to be what they are. If mine were from some disease I'd be dead a long time ago. Just concentrate on things to help with the hot flashes -like diet , maybe some natural hormones, Revival, etc.Keep a fan handy and a cool rag and you're all set. smile.gif

Take care sweetie and put your mind to rest, you are just a normal woman with normal meno things going on. :)Hugs, jeanne

SylvryMoon
Hi Rene,Jeanne is absolutely right.  When you hear galloping hooves, think. . . horses!!  Not zebras!!  :wink:

It's easy to get carried away with the hypochondria.  On these boards, there are so many symptoms, it's really easy to say, "Yeah, I've got that!"  or "Yeah, I've felt like this!"  I think we need to be very careful to assess our individual symptoms as they apply to US !!  Just because somebody else feels or experiences something doesn't mean it's a universal sign of menopause.  Remember what Dearest says -- the only consistent thing about menopause is its INconsistency!!  (paraphrasing here, Dearest!)

Anyway, please continue to read these boards and post to them, but don't think that everything must apply to you.  It doesn't.  You will have your own unique symptoms, and we'll all be interested to hear them and try to help.  But, like Jeanne says, if you have a headache, try an aspirin first, before seeing a brain surgeon!

Hugs!  And good luck!

Rene
Thanks, Ladies.I like that horses vs. zebras thing.  I tend to see the zebras.  I HATE being like that but I don't know how to change.  It's nt like I really THINK I'm having a heart attack, brain tumor, or whatever the disease of the week is, but I worry just enough that it MIGHT be true to cause more anxiety.  Such a viscious cycle.

I will TRY to keep reading and keep posting and keep thinking meno until I have good reason to think otherwise.

Thanks again.

Snowbird
Rene, Hi!!I agree with jeanne!!Most cases when I go to the doctor, is for the purpose of eliminating what "I MIGHT have."  It's usually the best doctors can do!!They will test for one thing.......results, will be negative!! They test for something else........results will be negative, and so on!!  When they are finished......finding nothing, I usually get..."I can only tell you what you DON'T have."  That's the process of elimination!!  I go through it all the time.....cuz, of menopause....fibromyalgia,etc.  These conditions are almost impossible to confirm with a test!!I have  left....doctors offices many......many times frustrated like you......wishing they had FOUND something:(  They couldn't.......the best they could do.....was tell me....I was fine.....(according to their tests)!!

What I'm saying here, is, when it comes to menopause.....it's ALWAYS good to have annuals check-ups....make sure certain illnesses and diseases are ruled out, yes......then when that is done.....you can safely say........."Yep...it's Menopause!!"From your others posts, I've read....you've seen doctors.....you've had tests....they,(doctors) can only do so much!!I'm sure if something else....was causing hot flashes, the doctors would have found it by now!!!  Hot flashes are not that puzzling or mysterious!!  In fact they are normal for us gals....during this time of our lives!!

Like you said in another post.....doctors don't know it all....most can only do the best they can!!  After that, it's up to you to go on, the best you can with what you've got!!I know it's tough....my Mom suffers from hypochondria!!  Like the other gals said....just keep reading and posting and go easy on yourself:)

Take care,~*Snowy*~

(Edited by Snowbird at 3:32 pm on Oct. 7, 2001)

raeh
i would like to say that i have been feeling very well since zoloft. i take valerian root to sleep and its great. i take black cohosh and its great. so, i hope this lasts and nothing changes except for good. a friend of mine takes evening primrose oil and has had no hotflashes for months now.
jeanne
So happy for you Rae:)It's great that you found something that works for you so well. We sure have to search long and hard at times to fin something.I am sure nothing but good will follow you now :)hugs, jeanne
Snowbird
Atta Girl Rae;);)So glad to hear your feeling good!! Zoloft, does work for some....and quit well, I might add!!Keep up the good work....and keep us posted!!(((Luv ya)))~*Snowy*~
MARSBAR
MY HOT FLASHES OCCUR DAY AND NIGHT.  I JUST FEEL HOT ALL OVER. SOMETIMES IT IS JUST MY FACE AND IT TURNS ALL RED.   MY BLOOD PRESSURE GOES UP WHEN I FEEL THIS WAY.  .  DOES ANYONE HAVE THIS PROBLEM?  ALSO I USE TRIESTROGEN AND TESTOSTERONE CREAM VERY SPARINGLY.  SOMETIMES IT SEEMS MY SYMPTOMS ARE WORSE AFTER USING THEM.  I JUST ORDERED REVIVAL(HAVEN'T RECEIVED IT YET)  I AM HOPING THIS WILL HELP.
jeanne
hi mars,Sounds very typical of hot flashes for some. Even the BP goes up. Not to worry,but I would maybe see about those hormones. Have you been evaluated for what you need to be using?  seems it may not be right if you are worse when using them.I think the Revival will help , but remember to give it a while to become effective. take care. hugs, jeanne
Dearest
If you're suffering from hot flashes, mood swings, palpitations, anxiety, depression, insomnia, panic, constant stress, menopausal symptoms,  I recommend you take time out to visit with my guest tonight, David Simon, M.D. -- a medical doctor who practices mind-body medicine, is the co-founder and Medical Director of the Deepak Chopra Center. Read more about tonight's chat on the Chat Announcement board.

Dearest

Snowbird
Dearest, G'morning!!

Well....I had a Power-Surge of a different kind last night!!  Was all set to check the chat...and the power went out:angry:We were having one heck of a storm....raining like crazy.....and the darn power goes out!! Grrr!  Hubby was called into work...cuz of power lines that came down, etc.,etc.  *Sheesh*  Wouldn't ya know it!!  The one time I have the 'puter all to myself in the evening and no POWER!!Hope the chat went well....I'll be checking out the transcripts, for sure;)((((Hugs))))~*Snowy*~

Dearest
Someone E-mailed me asking what a hot flash feels like. I gave it my best shot smile.gif

Some women report that they knew they were about to have the experience before it happened. An aura, or premonition, may feel like nausea, or a tingling or pressing sensation in the head. Some women become weak in the knees, dizzy and have to sit down. Others experience heart palpitations before or as the flash begins and while it's occurring.

Hot flashes are sudden waves of heat that can start in the waist or chest and work their way to the neck and face and sometimes over the rest of the body. The upper body, from the chest to the scalp may begin to sweat profusely. You may also "flush," that is, become red as you flash.

Heart rate and skin blood flow increase, although internal body temperature may drop by as much as three or four degrees as the body struggles to correct the imbalance.  After the flash, the body quickly becomes chilled as it struggles to regain its normal temperature.  There's no real "average" when it comes to duration. Some flashes can last 15 to 30 seconds, while others from 3 to 6 minutes.

Most women who've come through Power Surge have described theirs as approximately 5 minutes, but they can last as long as 30 minutes to even an hour. They can hit as often as every 90 minutes. While in the throes of perimenopause, I used to say I had a hot flash once a day -- ALL DAY!

Hot flashes are more common in the evening and during hot weather. Seventy-five to 80 percent of women going through menopause experience hot flashes. Some are more bothered by them than others.

Ways of coping with hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause can be found all over the Power Surge Web site. There are some excellent articles about hot flashes in the Newsworthy section and the new Educate Your Body area of the Web site. Of course, there are numerous suggestions on the  Recommendations Page.

Last but not least, Power Surge has one of the best "SEARCH ENGINES" which can search the entire site or specific areas. You'll find the Search by clicking here. Just type in "hot flashes" (I recommend using quotation marks around phrases of more than one word) and you'll get many responses.

Some Additional Facts:

What is a hot flash?

Women experience a variety of symptoms of menopause, but the hot flash is the one most discussed.  During menopause the body produces less estrogen and progesterone.  As a result, the thermostat in our brain, the hypothalamus, gets mixed signals: is it hot or cold?  It is as if it cannot decide between these states.  This oscillation causes our blood vessels to expand and contract on an irregular and unpredictable basis.  With an increased blood flow in the body, a feeling of heat and a flush starts on the face, the neck, and continues to the chest.  Some women perspire, others really sweat!  Sometimes a chill follows a hot flash.  You'd be cold, too, if you were hot and soaking wet in the middle of winter, and suddenly someone turned off the heat.  Depending on the intensity of the hot flash, some women may get headaches, feel weak, dizzy, tired or lose sleep. Some may experience palpitations, skipped or erratic heartbeats. Remember to be sure to check with your health care practiioner before attributing any of the above symptoms to menopause.  Hot flashes can be the sign of illness or medical disorders.

How long does a hot flash last?

Hot flashes may last two to three minutes or up to 30 minutes.  They may occur several times a day, or feel like they're occurring all day! They can occur once a week, maybe never.  Hot flashes may happen once or twice, or continue for up to ten years.  No wonder women think they are going crazy!

Who experiences hot flashes?

Seventy-five percent of women experience some form of a hot flash.

I hope this has been helpful!

Dearest

Dearest
Some Suggestions to Reduce Hot Flashes and Get More Sleep

Sudden drops in estrogen send the body’s thermostat into overdrive, causing hot flashes typical  of menopause. Blood vessels in the skin expand, drawing more blood to the skin tissues and making them hot for 30 seconds to 5 minutes.

Many things can trigger hot flashes. Triggers are different for everyone. To learn what causes yours, keep a hot flash notebook. Write down the time of day of each hot flash, where it happened, what happened during it (for example, "face bright red, blouse soaked"), how long the episode lasted, how bad it was on a scale of 1 to 10, and anything you ate, drank, or did during the half an hour before it started. After a week, look for patterns. Try the steps below until you find what works for you.

Your Environment and What You Wear

* Wear loose-fitting, natural-fiber clothing (cotton, linen, silk). * Dress in layers so you can remove the top layer if you feel flushed. * Keep your home cool, especially your bedroom. * Take a small fan to work. * Sleep in 100% cotton night wear, and use 100% cotton sheets. * Be aware that hot, humid weather can exacerbate hot flashes.

What and When You Eat

* Eat small, frequent meals. * Drink plenty of water. At business meetings or social engagements, keep a pitcher or glass of ice water handy to cool off any hot flashes that may strike. Sucking an ice cube may stop a hot flash.  * Notice whether specific foods affect you. Some that commonly cause hot flashes are  coffee, tea, other hot drinks, soft drinks containing caffeine, red wine, aged cheeses,  spicy dishes, citrus fruits, and tomatoes. Avoid any foods that are problems for you,  particularly after 4 PM. * Don’t drink alcohol at night. It may trigger hot flashes and disturb your sleep. * Eating soy foods may help boost your estrogen supply. Foods like miso, tofu, and soy nuts are great sources soy oil and soy sauce are not! Another source of soy isoflavones to boost your estrogen and energy, reduce symptoms of menopause is Revival soy protein.

Your Habits

* Get some exercise. * Take a cool 20-minute bath in the morning — it may keep you flush-free all day.* Consider a cool bath or shower or a walk in the cool night air before going to bed. * Explore stress-reduction techniques such as biofeedback, guided imagery, massage, meditation, muscle relaxation exercises, and yoga.

Calm, deep breathing helps many women. Take deep, slow breaths that start in your abdomen take 5 seconds to breathe in and 5 seconds to breathe out. Take 6-8 of these per minute. Practice 15 minutes twice a day and whenever a hot flash starts.

Learn as much as you can!

That's what Power-Surge.com is all about!

There are also many books that suggest ways to treat symptoms of menopause. Ask your doctor to recommend some, or browse the bookstore with direct links to amazon.com

Dearest

SylvryMoon
Dearest,Both of your posts were so helpful.  Thank you!

In lieu of the cool bath in the morning, I always take a "cool down" in the shower -- after a really, not steamy shower (which I think I need to feel really clean), I always turn the water temperature down to between lukewarm and cool, and just let it flow over me for about 3-4minutes.  It does seem to help!

Also, the best help for me has always been deep, cleansing breaths.  It helps with everything -- anxiety, hot flashes, mood swings, etc.

Thank you again!

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