Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth spreading through the body, often most pronounced in the face, neck, and chest. They are a common symptom of perimenopause and menopause.
What causes hot flashes?
Hot flashes are caused by decreasing levels of the female hormone estrogen as women approach menopause. Estrogen helps regulate body temperature, and declining levels can lead to hot flashes. Specifically, decreasing estrogen appears to affect the hypothalamus - the part of the brain that regulates body temperature. This triggers blood vessels near the skin's surface to dilate rapidly, causing increased blood flow in these areas and a feeling of intense warmth.
What do hot flashes feel like?
Women describe hot flash sensations differently, but some common experiences include:
- A sudden feeling of warmth spreading through the upper body and face
- Flushing or redness of the skin
- Rapid/pounding heart rate
- Sweating, especially at night
- A chilled feeling as the hot flash subsides
The intensity can range from a mild, passing sensation to an overwhelming heat consuming the whole body. Hot flashes can last from 30 seconds to several minutes.
What triggers hot flashes?
Common triggers include:
- Stress, anxiety, or emotional distress
- Warm environments
- Caffeine, spicy foods, or alcohol
- Tight clothing or being under a blanket
How are hot flashes treated?
Lifestyle changes may provide some relief:
- Stay cool by using fans, dressing in layers, avoiding triggers like spicy foods
- Practice stress management techniques
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid excess caffeine and alcohol
If lifestyle measures aren't enough,
hormone replacement therapy (HRT) medications containing estrogen can relieve symptoms. Other prescription medicines like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or gabapentin may help reduce hot flash frequency or severity for some women. Over-the-counter supplements like phytoestrogens, black cohosh, or vitamin E have mixed evidence in studies.
Visit Renew Health Clinic for more information on managing menopausal symptoms.