Extreme hot flushes
It’s not just the hot weather when we have a sunny day; I find it very hard to cool down. I am 52 and have suffered menopausal hot flushes in the past but I am still having episodes of feeling very, very hot and getting very red in the face. I have to take phenytoin following surgery last year which may be causing the problem. Is there anything I can safely take or any change I can make to my diet?
If you have not already done so, you need to ask your doctors more about the potential adverse effects associated with phenytoin which is an anticonvulsant drug closely linked in its chemical structure to barbiturates. Fever, (which would include a high temperature), is cited among the side-effects in cases of hypersensitivity, so while this is not precisely what you describe, it is worth getting checked out properly.
In the meantime, you can help control the over-heating you are currently suffering using an Ayurvedic (Indian) remedy called Shatavari from the UK Ayurvedic specialists, Pukka Herbs (01275 461950). This is described as both a “cooling” and “nourishing” herb which will also help re-regulate any on-going hormonal imbalances that are contributing to the problem.
Take two Shatavari capsules, three times a day, before meals with Aloe vera juice. In Ayurveda, Aloe vera juice is used as a carrier to “direct” the Shatavari to the hormonal system. It is also critical in helping to reduce dryness and heat in the body, which will further alleviate your symptoms. Use this alongside the Peppermint and Licorice tea from the same company, which will have an additional cooling effect and drink this whenever symptoms worsen.
When you feel your face start to redden, use the organic rosewater spray; again from the same company. The Shatavari costs £ 13.75 for 90 capsules. The Aloe Vera juice is £14.95 for 500ml of organic juice. The herbal tea is £1.89 for 20 bags and the rosewater spray costs £4.95 for 100ml.