A woman’s ovaries stop releasing eggs during menopause, her body generates less estrogen, and she undergoes physical and psychological changes. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. One symptom of menopause is hot flashes, which are sudden feelings of warmth that spread over the body and are often accompanied by a flushed face, sweating, and a rapid heartbeat. Hot flashes can occur day or night and last from 30 seconds to several minutes.
What are hot flashes?
Up to 80% of women have hot flashes, the most prevalent vasomotor symptom of menopause. Though they can occur during perimenopause, hot flashes are most common after menopause.
Most women experience hot flashes for 1 to 5 years, but some have them for ten years or more. Hot flashes generally last from 30 seconds to several minutes.
A decrease in estrogen levels causes hot flashes. Estrogen is a hormone that helps regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle. As estrogen levels decline, the body’s thermostat resets at a higher temperature. This resetting causes increased blood flow and sweating, which leads to the characteristic “hot flash” sensation.
What causes hot flashes during menopause?
Physical causes
Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause and can be caused by various physical factors. Hormone levels are the primary physical cause of hot flashes during menopause. As a woman’s ovaries produce less estrogen, her body temperature becomes more sensitive to changes in her environment and internal changes in her hormone levels. Blood vessels near the skin’s surface dilate more frequently, causing more blood to flow to the skin and making the woman feel flush or hot. Another physical cause of hot flashes is the nervous system. The hypothalamus helps to control body temperature; as we age, it becomes less efficient. This can lead to hot flashes during menopause.
Emotional reasons
Several emotional factors can cause hot flashes during menopause, but stress is one of the most common triggers. When a woman feels stressed, her body releases a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol can cause an increase in body temperature, which can lead to hot flashes.
Another possible cause of hot flashes during menopause is anxiety. Anxiety can also cause an increase in body temperature, which can trigger hot flashes.
Depression is another possible emotional cause of hot flashes during menopause. Depression can sometimes lead to decreased body temperature, triggering hot flashes.
What are the symptoms of hot flashes?
- A sudden warmth in your chest, neck, and face may accompany a hot flash
- Flushing and blotchy skin are signs of a hot flash
- Your heart rate is elevated
- Sweat may be more visible on your back
- The sensation of an incredible rush as the hot flash ends.
- Feeling low and anxious.
When do hot flashes typically start and end?
The interval just before menopause is known as the perimenopause. It typically starts in a woman’s 40s but can start in her 30s or earlier. One of the most prevalent signs of perimenopause and menopause is hot flashes.
Most women experience their first hot flashes in their early to mid-40s. However, some women may have them earlier, in their 30s or even 20s. Hot flashes usually last between two and five minutes. They may occur several times or just a few times a week. For some women, hot flashes persist for years after menopause has ended. In general, though, they tend to lessen in frequency and intensity over time.
What can you do to manage hot flashes during menopause?
Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause and can be both frustrating and embarrassing. While there is no cure for hot flashes, some simple lifestyle changes can significantly reduce hot flashes and improve quality of life. Here are some tips:
1. Dress in layers so you can remove clothing when you start to feel warm.
2. Keep a fan handy to help cool yourself down.
3. Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, which can trigger hot flashes.
4. Regular exercise can help to lessen both the frequency and intensity of hot flashes.
5. Stay cool by drinking lots of fluids, especially water and herbal teas.
6. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation to help control hot flashes.
What are the treatments?
Hormone replacement therapy
According to the National Institutes of Health, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most effective treatment for hot flashes. There are two types of hormone therapy: systemic and local. Systemic therapy involves taking a pill, patch, or gel that contains estrogen. Local therapy uses a cream, ring, or tablet that contains progesterone and is inserted into the vagina. Hormone therapy can reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes and may also help prevent osteoporosis.
Hormone therapy is the most effective treatment for hot flashes, but it is not without risks. Some studies have linked hormone therapy to increased breast cancer and stroke risk. However, the benefits of hormone therapy may outweigh the risks for some women.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are one type of medication that can be used to treat hot flashes. They affect the chemicals in the brain, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes.
Gabapentinoids
Gabapentinoids are a class of drugs that includes gabapentin and pregabalin. These drugs reduce the number of nerve impulses sent out from the central nervous system. This can help to reduce hot flashes by decreasing the body’s response to triggers like stress and anxiety.
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications
There are various over-the-counter (OTC) medications available to treat hot flashes. Some of the most common include
Vitamins E and B6: Vitamins E and B6 are two of the most commonly recommended treatments for hot flashes. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that helps to regulate hormone levels in the body. Both vitamins are considered to be safe and effective treatments for hot flashes.
Herbal supplements: Herbs such as black cohosh and red clover may help relieve hot flashes. Black cohosh is a herb that is effective in treating hot flashes. Red clover is another herb that may be effective in treating hot flashes. Both of these herbs can be taken in pill form or as tea.
Evening primrose oil: Evening primrose oil is a natural remedy that effectively reduces the frequency and severity of hot flashes. If you’re considering using evening primrose oil for hot flashes, you must talk to your doctor first. While it is generally safe, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of. Evening primrose oil can cause gastrointestinal upset, skin rashes, and headaches in some people.
Soy (plant estrogen): Soy is a popular natural remedy for hot flashes, as it contains high levels of phytoestrogens, which are plant-based estrogens that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.
Soy effectively reduces the frequency and severity of hot flashes in some women. However, it may not work for everyone. Soy may also have other potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis.
Final words
Menopause is a time in a woman’s life when she experiences many changes. Lifestyle and over-the-counter treatments can help address these changes, such as hot flashes. Others may require more medical intervention, such as mood swings and vaginal dryness. Either way, it is essential for women to be aware of the changes they may experience during menopause and to speak with their doctor about the best way to manage them.