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 perimenopause and menopause, affecting up to 80% of women.
What causes hot flashes?
Hot flashes are caused by changes in hormone levels, especially estrogen. As women approach menopause, their ovaries start to produce less estrogen. This fluctuation and drop in estrogen levels affects the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates body temperature. When the hypothalamus detects a small increase in body heat, it activates coolers like sweating. Hot flashes happen when the hypothalamus overreacts to small changes in temperature.
What are the common symptoms of hot flashes?
The most common hot flash symptoms include:
Hot flashes range in frequency from once in a while to recurring daily, lasting 30 seconds to several minutes. Night sweats can also disturb sleep. The unpredictability of hot flashes can negatively impact quality of life.
How are hot flashes treated?
Lifestyle changes like dressing in layers, lowering room temperature, avoiding triggers like stress and spicy foods, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking may provide some relief. Over-the-counter supplements like soy, black cohosh, vitamins E and B6, magnesium, and flaxseed may help mild hot flashes.
If lifestyle changes don't work, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an option. At Hormone Harmony Clinic, our caring medical staff can determine if HRT containing hormones like estrogen and progesterone is suitable for you. When tailored to your needs, HRT can effectively reduce hot flash frequency by up to 90%. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.