Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth spreading through the body and skin flushing that can cause profuse sweating. They are a common symptom of perimenopause and menopause that affect up to 80% of women.
What causes hot flashes?
Hot flashes are caused by decreasing estrogen levels leading up to and during menopause. Estrogen helps regulate body temperature, so drops in estrogen can trigger hot flashes as the body's thermostat becomes dysfunctional. Additional factors like stress, spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and warm environments can also trigger hot flashes.
What do hot flashes feel like?
The feeling of a hot flash can come on rapidly and vary in intensity. Many women describe it as a sudden wave of heat that spreads through the upper body into the neck and face. The skin may redden like a blush, along with sweating and an accelerated heart rate. Hot flashes typically last 30 seconds to 10 minutes. Mild hot flashes may be barely noticeable, while severe ones can be intensely uncomfortable.
Managing hot flashes
Lifestyle adjustments can help reduce hot flash frequency, like wearing lightweight, breathable fabrics; lowering room temperature; avoiding triggers like stress and spicy foods; and relaxation techniques. For moderate to severe hot flashes, hormone therapy may be recommended, often using bioidentical hormones to closely match the body’s natural hormones.
The experts at Second Spring Hormone Clinic can help create a personalized hormone balance plan to effectively manage hot flashes and other menopause symptoms. Their comprehensive hormone panel testing and bioidentical hormone therapy regimens fit your unique hormonal needs for customized relief. Contact Second Spring Hormone Clinic today to learn more and take control of your menopause transition.
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