Hot Flashes as a Symptom of Menopause

Overview

Menopause is a natural stage in a person's life when their menstrual periods stop, typically occurring around the ages of 45-55. While menopause is not an illness, the hormonal changes that occur during this time can trigger various symptoms. Hot flashes are one of the most common symptoms of menopause and may last several years. Hot flashes affect an estimated 75% of people going through menopause.

A hot flash (also called “night sweats” when it occurs at night) is a sudden sensation of heat in the upper body (face, neck and chest). The skin may turn red, similar to blushing. The hot flash often causes sweating, sometimes drenching sweating that soaks clothes or bed sheets. At the end of a hot flash, some people feel chills momentarily as their body readjusts after losing body heat during hot flash. Night sweats often disrupt sleep.

Hot flashes associated with menopause may be called vasomotor symptoms. They are caused by the body’s reaction to changing hormone levels during menopause. Decreasing estrogen levels affect the body’s usual regulation of body temperature. The brain detects slight changes in body temperature as being too warm and starts a reaction to cool down the body. This is a hot flash. People who smoke or are obese are more likely to get hot flashes.

Hot flashes may be mild (primarily the feeling of warmth), moderate and somewhat bothersome (warm and sweating), or severe where symptoms cause disruption to usual activities. To manage these symptoms, there are several options available:

• Lifestyle changes
  • Stop smoking, if you smoke.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Lower the temperature of the bedroom at night or turn on a fan.
  • Drink small amounts of cold water before bed.
  • Layer bedding so layers can be removed if you start to feel warm.
  • Dress in layers so clothing can be removed if a hot flash starts.
  • Carry a portable fan.
  • Avoid food or drink that triggers hot flashes. Common triggers include alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods.
• Medications: Medications may help alleviate hot flashes during menopause. There are benefits and risks for medications. It is important to discuss these with the doctor based upon individual factors to determine treatment options that may be right for you. Medications that have been used to treat hot flashes during menopause include:
  • Hormone therapy: This may include estrogen and progesterone.
  • Antidepressants
  • Other medications may be used to help with certain hot flash symptoms
• Alternative therapies: Some individuals find relief from menopausal symptoms through alternative therapies such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, or certain teas. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any alternative treatments as these could potentially interact with other conditions or medications you are taking.

Remember that each person's experience with menopause is unique, so it's important to find what works best for you in managing your symptoms. If you have concerns or questions about menopause symptoms and treatment options, it's always a good idea to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and support.

Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.