Hot flashes - Balance Hormones Clinic

What is Hot Flashes?

Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause, experienced by around 75% of women as they go through the transition out of their reproductive years. Simply put, a hot flash is a sudden feeling of intense warmth and sweating that can last from 30 seconds up to several minutes.

What causes hot flashes?

Hot flashes occur due to changing hormone levels. As women go through menopause, their estrogen levels decline rapidly while follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels rise dramatically. This fluctuation interferes with the body's temperature regulating mechanisms, causing hot flashes. Some key points about the causes include:

• The drop in estrogen tricks the brain into thinking the body is overheating, triggering sweating and flushing
• Higher FSH levels are associated with more severe and frequent hot flashes
• Other factors like stress, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol can trigger hot flashes as well

What do hot flashes feel like?

The feeling of a hot flash can range from mild to very intense, but some common characteristics include:

• A sudden feeling of heat spreading through the upper body and face
• Flushing and red blotchiness appearing on the skin
• Sweating and chills as the heat dissipates
• Heart palpitations or increased pulse
• Skin tingling or numbness

The intensity and duration can vary widely between women. Most hot flashes last 30 seconds to a few minutes and can occur a few times a week for some, up to multiple times an hour for others.

Managing hot flashes

While not dangerous, frequent hot flashes can cause discomfort and interrupt sleep. Some tips for managing them include:

• Layering clothes for easy temperature regulation
• Avoiding triggers like stress, alcohol, spicy foods
• Exercising regularly to improve vascular health
• Practicing relaxation techniques to lower stress
• Taking supplements like evening primrose or black cohosh
• Getting a prescription for low-dose hormone therapy (the most effective option)

If hot flashes are severely disrupting your life, be sure to talk to your doctor about treatment options. Tracking your symptoms and identifying triggers can also help you manage fluctuating body temperatures during this transitional time. With some simple lifestyle changes and the right support from Balance Hormones Clinic, most women can greatly reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes.