Managing Hot Flashes and Night Sweats Without HRT: Expert Advice

Question
Is there ANYTHING I can do about hot flashes and night sweats?  I am not on HRT at present, it may not be an option because of family history.  I was started on neurontin which seemed to help initially but it's effect has decreased with time.  I never get a good night's sleep and feel awful during the day.  I actually dread going to bed.  Black cohosh has been worthless.  Please help!  Carole  P. S.  SSRI's have not helped either.

Answer
Yes, I believe there are things you can do for hot flashes. One of the most important is to cut out caffeine and sugar, including alcohol, if you can. Stimulants are hard on the body especially during menopause. This will also help you get a better night's sleep. Check out www.everythingmenopause.com under treatment options and get a doctor in your area. Plenty of women have eliminated hot flashes by balancing out their estrogen and progesterone levels. Mine weren't severe, so I was able to just use a topical progesterone cream and was fine. But I'm told this could change over the years also. Check out the rest of this website. There are some good books that can help you. (PS Black cohosh does not work for everyone, so don't give up)