Hot flashes - Rejuvenate Health

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? They are caused by decreasing levels of the female hormone estrogen during perimenopause and menopause. As estrogen declines, the hypothalamus - the area of the brain responsible for controlling body temperature - becomes more sensitive to small changes in temperature. This triggers the hypothalamus to release more hormones that make blood vessels dilate and heat leave the body, causing hot flashes. Some key points about hot flashes:

• They typically last from 30 seconds to 10 minutes. The skin may redden like a blush, along with sweating and an accelerated heart rate.
• They can occur during the day or at night. Night sweats can also interrupt sleep and cause fatigue or irritability.
• Triggers may include stress, hot weather, hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, tight clothing, and more. Identifying and avoiding personal triggers can help.
• They tend to decrease over time for most women. Lifestyle changes like dressing in layers, lowering room temperature, avoiding triggers, and managing stress can help cope.
• Medical treatment is available for severe hot flashes impacting quality of life. Hormone therapy, certain antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and herbal remedies may help.

In summary, hot flashes are a common disconcerting symptom marking changing hormone levels during the menopause transition. While uncomfortable, they are not dangerous or uncommon. Identifying personal triggers, layering clothes, lowering ambient temperatures, trying cooling techniques, and speaking with a doctor at Rejuvenate Health can help women manage bothersome hot flashes. With time, their severity and frequency tends to decrease for most women.