Question from MF: Can acupuncture help hot flashes and night sweating not associated with menopause? I’m a 75 year old woman, 10 years in remission for breast cancer(chemo and radiation). I have several episodes a day and at least 4 a night that I wake up drenched from. I had ben on anti-depressants that I thought was the cause but am no longer taking any but the symptoms have not lessened.
I have been thinking of Black Kohosh but have no knowledge of dosage
Answer: Acupuncture can be very effective in controlling symptoms of excess heat and sweating, regardless of the cause. You should also follow up with your doctor to rule out any health issues that could be causing these symptoms. I have no knowledge of black cohosh, but Chinese herbs are another effective treatment for these sweats as well. You would need to see an herbalist and have an herbal remedy formulated specifically for you. Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover acupuncture treatment.