What are 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 of perimenopause and menopause.
Hot flashes happen when the blood vessels near the skin's surface dilate rapidly. This results in an increase in blood flow to the skin, which makes it feel warm and flushed. Here are some key facts about hot flashes:
- They last from 30 seconds to 10 minutes, but most commonly 2-4 minutes. The flushing and sweating can be mild to intense.
- They can occur several times a day or night, although they tend to be more common at night.
- Triggers can include stress, caffeine, spicy foods, alcohol, tight clothing, and warm environments.
- Hormone changes are the main cause. Estrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, while FSH and LH levels rise. This affects the hypothalamus' regulation of body temperature.
- Around 75% of women going through menopause experience hot flashes. They usually start 1-2 years before menopause and can persist for several years.
- Hot flashes vary between women. Some only have occasional, mild flushing. For others, they severely disrupt daily life and sleep.
- Certain medical conditions, medications, and illnesses can also cause hot flashes. Men who have hormone treatments for prostate cancer or who have low testosterone may get hot flashes.
To get relief from hot flashes, here are some tips:
- Layer clothing so it can be removed as needed. Use breathable cotton and linen fabrics.
- Keep the room temperature cool. Use fans, air conditioning, or open windows.
- Avoid triggers like spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, stress, and tight clothes.
- Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation. Managing stress helps.
- Regular moderate exercise may reduce hot flash frequency.
- Some medications can provide relief, like low-dose antidepressants and gabapentin.
- Hormone therapy with estrogen or a combination of estrogen and progesterone is very effective. But it has risks that need discussion with a doctor.
If you are struggling with frequent, severe hot flashes, consult your doctor or make an appointment at
Renew Medical Clinic. Our caring doctors can provide customized
hormone therapy and other medical treatments to reduce your hot flashes and
improve your quality of life. With Renew Medical Clinic, you'll feel like yourself again. Call today to schedule a consultation!