Male Heat Flashes

Male heat flashes? That's right. Many people aren't aware that men can get heat flashes too. Because they aren't as common as in women and because many men are too embarrassed to admit it, a lot of folks just consider it a women's problem.

But for those who experience hot flashes, it's just as annoying and uncomfortable for men as for women. In fact, those are the most common questions that I get. Can men get heat flashes and how can they get rid of them?

What Causes Them?

The most common cause of hot flashes in men is a drop in testosterone. This can lead to male menopause symptoms. Like estrogen, testosterone lets the body have a higher tolerance for temperature change. Men who are undergoing treatment for prostate cancer will often experience hot flashes if they are using certain medications. If you are taking meds, ask your doctor if hot flashes could be a side effect.

Other Causes

Even if your testosterone levels are good, there are other causes of male heat flashes. If your body temperature is raised too high, too quickly, your body uses a hot flash to cool you down.

• Eating spicy foods and drinking alcohol can raise your body temperature.
• Caffeine affects some people, causing night sweats
• Working with a laptop on your lap, or sleeping with an electric blanket can have the same effect.
• Stress is another common cause of hot flashes in men.

What To Do About It

Many of the suggestions below are the same as for heat flashes in women.

• Stay away from alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, etc.
• Wear light clothing, especially cotton. Use layers in cold weather or air-conditioning.
• Keep your bedroom a little cooler to reduce night sweats.
• Some men use a progesterone cream to balance out their hormones. One natural balancing cream can be purchased here.
• Other men have used essential oils to alleviate symptoms.
• Stop smoking. It can raise your body temp.
• Relax for 1/2 hour to 1 hour before bedtime. Do something fun to reduce your stress levels. But don't use a hot tub right before bed.

Whether you are male or female, hot flashes are no fun. I always prefer a natural approach if possible, but if you are too uncomfortable, see your doctor. He may be able to offer some assistance. Heat flashes in men are a reality, but they can be tamed. Here's to keeping cool.