Hot flashes - Hormone Harmony Clinic

What are hot flashes?

Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth spreading through the body and flushing of the skin. They are a common symptom of perimenopause and menopause that affect up to 80% of women as their estrogen levels decline.

Some key things to know about hot flashes:

• They tend to last from 30 seconds to 10 minutes. The flushing often starts in the face and spreads down to the neck and chest.
• Night sweats can occur during sleep and cause intense sweating and discomfort.
• Triggers can include stress, spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and heat exposure.
• Hormone changes related to perimenopause, menopause, cancer treatment, or surgery can cause hot flashes. They are not usually a sign of something serious on their own.
• Lifestyle changes like dressing in layers, lowering room temperature, avoiding triggers, and managing stress can help reduce hot flashes.

What causes hot flashes?

The exact cause is not fully understood but has to do with changes in circulation and the body's temperature regulation. As estrogen levels decline, the hypothalamus, which regulates body temperature, becomes more sensitive and can trigger sudden dilating of blood vessels and sweating.

Lower estrogen causes trouble with the serotonin receptors and norepinephrine levels which also control vasomotor symptoms. Essentially, the body's internal thermostat becomes dysfunctional.

How are hot flashes treated?

Some options for relieving menopausal hot flashes include:

• Hormone therapy - Estrogen therapy is very effective at reducing hot flashes. Low-dose options help minimize risks.
• Prescription medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin antagonist reuptake inhibitors (SARIs)
• Over-the-counter supplements like black cohosh, vitamin E, or phytoestrogens
• Lifestyle changes - Avoid triggers, dress in layers, lower room temperature, practice stress management

If hot flashes are frequent and disruptive to quality of life, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor about treatment options. The experts at Hormone Harmony Clinic offer customized hormone therapy and supplements to help women find relief. Their compassionate providers understand the frustration of menopause symptoms and help create personalized treatment plans.

When to seek emergency care:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Fainting

While usually harmless, if hot flashes come on severely and suddenly, it can signal an underlying health condition requiring emergency care.

I hope this overview on hot flashes was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. Wishing you minimal night sweats and a peaceful journey through perimenopause and menopause.