Hot flashes - Rejuvenate Hormone Therapy

What is Hot Flashes?

Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth that spread across the body and lead to sweating. They are a common symptom of menopause, as women's estrogen levels decline during the transition leading up to their final menstrual period.

What causes hot flashes?

Hot flashes are caused by decreasing estrogen levels. Estrogen helps regulate body temperature, and with less of it, the body's thermostat becomes less precise. Small changes in internal or external temperatures can trigger sweating, flushing, and the feeling of heat.

When do they occur?

• Most women get hot flashes around menopause, as their estrogen production declines. They usually start a few years beforehand during perimenopause.
• Hot flashes can happen at any time during the day or night. For many women, they are most common at night or during stress.
• They can last from 30 seconds to 10 minutes. The sweating and flushed skin of a hot flash can linger afterward.
• Most women have hot flashes for 6 months to 2 years. But some women experience them for many years.

What are the symptoms?

The most common hot flash symptoms include:

• Sudden feeling of heat in the upper body, often spreading across the neck, face, and chest
• Flushing, reddening of the skin
• Rapid heart rate
• Sweating, mostly after the initial heat sensation
• Chills as the hot feeling subsides
• Irritability, anxiety, sensations of dread (less common)

Some women may also experience weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, or a feeling of claustrophobia during a hot flash.

What can you do to manage hot flashes?

Lifestyle adjustments may help reduce hot flash frequency:

• Dress in layers so it's easy to remove clothing as needed
• Lower the thermostat or use fans
• Avoid triggers like stress, caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods
• Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation
• Keep a cooling neck wrap or ice packs handy

If hot flashes interfere with daily life, talk to your doctor at Rejuvenate Hormone Therapy about treatment options like hormone therapy, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and herbal remedies.