Clothing for Hot Flashes
QUESTION: What are good clothing for hot flashes to keep me dry? I am having hot flashes throughout the day and they last anywhere from fifteen to twenty minutes and they come on suddenly. The most embarrassing time for my hot flashes is when I am in a meeting. I can feel the heat rising in my face and then I start to perspire. What can I do, and what can I wear?
RESPONSE: My first suggestion is that you should always dress in layers because you may not have any idea when your hot flashes will start. Remove the layers as required. The final layer should be a short-sleeved shirt.
Wear breathable fabrics like cotton, and stay away from fabrics such as polyester, silk,wool,nylon and synthetics. These fabrics not only increase perspiration, but they also show perspiration. Try to avoid linen because it shows the sweat the most.
Wear clothing that is easy to wash and doesn't require dry cleaning.
The best clothing to wear is fabrics that wick sweat away from the body. These materials are used in sports clothing. Several companies sell clothing for hot flashes.
Another suggestion is to try and control the hot flashes through various means such as drinking ice water when you are in the meeting. Come relaxed and on-time. Do not eat spicy foods or any other triggers. I am assuming that you don't drink alcohol before a meeting, but I could be wrong. Alcohol is a major trigger for a hot flash.
Try to sit in the coolest area of the room, and always have an exit plan. Excuse yourself to go to the bathroom if you feel one coming on. There are ways to deal with this. And remember that this is only a temporary state, it too shall pass.
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