What is Hot Flashes?
Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth that spread across the body and face. They can cause sweating and reddening of the skin. Hot flashes are a common symptom during menopause, affecting up to 80% of women.
What Causes Hot Flashes?
Hot flashes are caused by decreasing levels of the female hormone estrogen during menopause. Estrogen helps regulate body temperature, so declining levels can disrupt this process. When the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for controlling temperature, senses a small increase in body heat, it initiates hot flashes to cool the body down by dilating blood vessels and increasing sweat production.
What Do Hot Flashes Feel Like?
The intensity of hot flashes varies widely among women. Many describe the feeling as sudden warmth spreading through the upper body and face. Skin may redden like a blush, as if you are embarrassed. Hot flashes can also cause sweating, chills afterwards, flushed appearance, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety.
A hot flash can last from 30 seconds to several minutes. Most are mild, but some are severe enough to interrupt daily activities.
What Triggers Hot Flashes?
Common hot flash triggers include warm environments, stress, caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
Managing Hot Flashes
Lifestyle changes may help prevent or improve hot flashes:
If lifestyle measures are insufficient, low-dose hormone therapy, antidepressants, and other medications may provide relief. Discuss options with your healthcare provider at Restore Health Clinic.
While frustrating, keep in mind that hot flashes usually peak in frequency and intensity during perimenopause. Most women find them manageable, and they tend to decrease in time. Communicating with your healthcare provider is key to finding an effective hot flash treatment plan that fits your needs.