Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth which are usually most intense over the face, neck and chest. They may also be accompanied by reddening of the skin, sweating, palpitations, feeling faint or chills.
Hot flashes are actually a form of flushing due to decreased estrogen levels and are very common during perimenopause and menopause in women. However, they may occur at other times as well.
Some key points about hot flashes:
What causes hot flashes?
Hot flashes and flushing occur primarily due to declining estrogen levels. As women approach menopause, production of estrogen and progesterone from the ovaries slows down significantly. The hypothalamus, which helps regulate body temperature, becomes more sensitive in response to the reduced hormone levels.
Small changes in core body temperature, stress hormones, or other triggers can set off the hypothalamus very easily, causing it to release more gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). This leads to vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and increased blood flow to the skin, resulting in the red flush and sensation of heat we know as a hot flash.
Managing Hot Flashes:
Lifestyle changes can help ease hot flashes to some degree:
Many women also find relief through:
If your hot flashes persist and impact your quality of life, make an appointment with your healthcare provider or with the experts at Renew Medical HRT Clinic. Our caring practitioners will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan aimed at controlling symptoms and helping you feel your best.