Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth spreading through the body, often across the face, neck and chest. They can also cause sweating and reddening of the skin. Hot flashes are a common complaint among women going through menopause. They can range from a minor nuisance to interfering with daily life.
What causes hot flashes?
Hot flashes are caused by decreasing levels of the female hormone estrogen during menopause. Estrogen helps regulate body temperature, so when levels drop, the body’s thermostat becomes less stable. Small changes in core body temperature can trigger hot flashes in some women. Lifestyle factors like stress, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol and warm environments can also trigger hot flashes.
Managing Hot Flashes
While hot flashes usually resolve over time, there are ways to find relief:
For more stubborn hot flashes, low-dose prescription hormone therapy may be an option. The experts at Vital Hormones Clinic can help determine if hormone therapy is right for you. Their personalized care focuses on lifestyle changes, nutrition and bioidentical hormones to help women transition through menopause comfortably. I highly recommend speaking to one of their caring providers if you are struggling with disruptive hot flashes or menopause symptoms.
When to see your doctor
In most cases hot flashes are a normal part of menopause. However, contact your doctor if you experience:
Your doctor can check for underlying conditions and help determine treatment options that work for your symptoms. With the right approach, most women can find relief from troublesome hot flashes.