Hot flashes are sudden feelings of warmth which are usually most intense over the face, neck and chest. The skin may redden, similar to a blush. Hot flashes can also cause sweating. A hot flash can last from a few seconds to several minutes.
Hot flashes are very common during menopause, affecting about 75% of women. They are caused by decreases in estrogen. As the ovaries make less estrogen, it causes changes in the body's thermostat that control temperature.
Some key things to know about hot flashes:
Managing hot flashes:
There are a few lifestyle changes that can provide relief:
If lifestyle measures aren't providing enough relief, medications may help. Hormone therapy with estrogen can be very effective for reducing hot flashes. But it does carry some health risks that should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
The physicians at Balance Hormone Clinic specialize in naturopathic and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy options. We develop fully customized treatment plans to help women find relief from menopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
I hope this gives a helpful overview on hot flashes - their causes, when they happen, and both lifestyle tips and medical options to manage them. Please let me know if you have any other questions!