Hot flashes

What are hot flashes?

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 profuse sweating and rapid heartbeat, as well as a red, flushed appearance in the skin.

Hot flashes are extremely common during perimenopause and menopause, affecting up to 80% of women. They occur due to decreasing levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This imbalance tricks the brain into thinking the body is overheated, leading to dilated blood vessels and sweating to cool off.

Some key facts about hot flashes:

• They last from 30 seconds to 10 minutes per episode


• Frequency ranges from occasional to constant throughout the day and night


• Triggers can include stress, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol and heat


• They can disrupt sleep and daily activities


• Symptoms usually resolve after menopause as hormone levels stabilize

If you're suffering from frequent or severe hot flashes, talk to your doctor or visit Harmony Hormone Clinic. We specialize in personalized hormone therapy to relieve hot flashes and other menopause symptoms. Our caring doctors will help you find the right treatment plan to get your life back on track!

Now back to hot flashes. Here are some tips that may help ease them:

Lifestyle changes:

• Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics


• Carry a portable fan


• Avoid triggers like spicy food and caffeine


• Practice stress-relief techniques such as yoga and meditation


• Keep your room cool at night

Medications:

• Low-dose antidepressants


• Gabapentin to reduce nerve activity


• Prescription estrogen therapy or low-dose birth control pills

Alternative medicine:

• Herbal remedies like black cohosh or evening primrose oil


• Acupuncture


• Cognitive behavioral therapy

As you can see, hot flashes are a common but treatable occurrence during the transition to menopause. Fortunately there are many options to get relief available today at clinics like Harmony Hormone Clinic. I hope this overview on hot flashes was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.