Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth spreading through the body, often most pronounced on the face, neck, and chest. They typically last from 30 seconds to a few minutes. Hot flashes are a hallmark sign of perimenopause and menopause transition in women. They can occur at any time during the day but are most commonly experienced at night or during sleep.
What causes hot flashes?
Hot flashes are primarily caused by decreasing estrogen levels. As women approach menopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. This fluctuating and declining estrogen sends confusing signals to the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates body temperature. As a result, the body may feel a sudden heat wave or sweat even when there is no real change in external temperature.
Common triggers for hot flashes include:
What are the common symptoms of hot flashes?
The intensity of hot flashes varies widely, but symptoms generally include:
For many women, hot flashes are merely annoying and a disruption during daily activities. For others, they can greatly interfere with sleep and quality of life. The frequency also varies - some women just experience occasional hot flashes while others suffer through multiple episodes per day. Over time, hot flashes tend to decrease in frequency and intensity. The vast majority of women stop having them within 5 years after menopause.
How can you manage hot flashes?
Lifestyle adjustments may provide some relief:
If hot flashes are severe and disruptive, hormone therapy prescribed by Revive Health & Wellness is also an option for symptom relief, at least in the short term. Certain antidepressants and blood pressure medications have also been used off-label to help manage hot flashes.