Hot flashes - Rebalance Hormone Clinic

Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth spreading through the body, often most pronounced in the face, neck, and chest. The hot sensation is usually accompanied by visible skin reddening and sweating. The exact cause of hot flashes isn't fully understood, but they seem to result from a complex interplay of internal and external factors. What causes hot flashes? Hot flashes are primarily associated with menopause and perimenopause in women. They occur due to changing levels of estrogen and other reproductive hormones like progesterone, leading up to and during menopause. However, hot flashes can also be caused by other factors like:

• Medical conditions: Hypothyroidism, diabetes, panic disorder, leukemia, and Hodgkin's lymphoma are some medical problems that can trigger hot flashes.
• Medications: Certain medications used for managing depression, high blood pressure, and seizures can cause hot flashes as a side effect.
• Risk factors: Obesity, smoking, alcoholism, sedentary lifestyle, and high levels of stress are risk factors that make hot flashes worse.

What happens during a hot flash? A hot flash begins with a sudden sensation of heat centered on the upper chest and face. The intensity of the heat can range from a mild warmer sensation to a burning feeling. As the heat dissipates through the body, it triggers sweating that can drench clothing and bedding. Some other effects include:

• Red blotchy skin on the face, neck, and chest
• Palpitations or accelerated heart rate
• Anxiety, irritability, and restlessness
• Feeling weak or faint
• Chills as the hot phase passes

A severe hot flash can last 30 seconds to several minutes. Milder episodes may only cause a faint warm feeling for less than a minute. The frequency ranges from a few hot flashes per week to several per day. How to cope with hot flashes

• Wear lightweight, layered clothing
• Exercise regularly to improve circulation
• Practice stress management techniques
• Avoid spicy foods and hot beverages if they trigger hot flashes
• Keep the room temperature cool
• Stay hydrated and limit alcohol and caffeine
• Consider hormone replacement therapy or medications

Hot flashes can negatively impact work, social life, and relationships. So it's important to take symptoms seriously and consult a doctor for severe or persistent episodes. Certain prescription medicines and professional counseling can help women cope with hot flashes due to menopause or other causes at Rebalance Hormone Clinic.