Hot flashes - Thrive HRT

Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth that spread across the body and last from 1 to 5 minutes. They are a common symptom of menopause, the time when a woman's menstrual periods stop permanently. What causes hot flashes? Hot flashes are caused by decreasing levels of the female hormone estrogen in a woman's body. Estrogen helps regulate body temperature, among other functions. As estrogen levels decline in perimenopause and menopause, the body may not be able to regulate temperature as well as it used to. Fluctuations in estrogen send confusing signals to the brain's thermostat (the hypothalamus), causing it to read "too hot" at times, which triggers hot flashes as the body tries to cool itself down. Things that can trigger hot flash onset during this time include:

• Stress
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Spicy foods
• Warm environments

What do hot flashes feel like? The intensity of hot flashes varies widely. Some women describe it like being hit by a wave of heat that spreads quickly from the chest up to the head. Along with a hot red face, other common sensations include:

• Sweating
• Chills
• Clammy feeling
• Increased heart rate
• Anxiety
• Feeling faint
• Nausea

For many women, hot flashes are merely annoying and a disruption. But for some, they can be severe and interfere with daily life. How to find relief from hot flashes Lifestyle adjustments like wearing light layers, lowering the thermostat, avoiding triggers, and managing stress can help prevent or reduce hot flashes. Other options include:

• Hormone therapy (HT) - Estrogen with or without progestin
• Prescription medications like antidepressants
• Herbal remedies like black cohosh or soy isoflavones
• Cooling techniques like fans, cold drinks, spray bottles

If hot flashes persist and impact your quality of life, see your doctor at Thrive HRT to explore treatment options for finding relief. Track your symptoms in a journal to help find useful patterns. Be patient with yourself and know that for most women, hot flashes will diminish over time.