Hot flashes also known as vasomotor symptoms are extremely common, affecting approximately 75% of women as they go through menopause. Symptoms can begin during the perimenopausal transition and last from a few years to over 10 years. When moderate to severe, they can have a significant impact on quality of life, especially due to the associated sleep disturbances. These sleep disturbances may affect energy, mood and metabolism.
Hot flashes are the sudden sensation of heat typically in the upper chest and face, most often caused by the decrease in estrogen levels during the perimenopause and menopause transitions. Episodes can last as long as 4 minutes and can be associated with sweating, anxiety, and palpitations. The symptoms can occur during the day or night.
The diagnosis is made clinically by classic symptoms during perimenopause or menopause, as determined by history and physical exam. If signs and symptoms are not classic, then evaluation for other causes of flushing may be needed, such as thyroid function testing to exclude hyperthyroidism.
For each woman triggers may be different but common triggers include:
There are many treatment and management options to help with the estrogen fluctuation and symptoms that occur during menopause.
Transdermal (through the skin) estrogen patches are favored over oral estrogens and micronized progesterone is favored over medroxyprogesterone
Find an endocrinologist today to ensure that you are on the path to health with the right medical care. Keep Your Body In Balance!
Learn more about your personal journey with menopause. You don't have to suffer in silence any longer. Let's Talk About It!