They are sometimes calledvasomotorsymptoms.
Hot flashes associated with menopause are because of hormonal changes, though there can be other causes.
Many people benefit fromhormone therapy.
Illustration by Maritsa Patrinos for Verywell Health
This article explains what hot flashes feel like and their causes.
Illustration by Maritsa Patrinos for Verywell Health
What Does a Hot Flash Feel Like?
While they are entirely normal, hot flashes can be disruptive.
The warmth of a hot flash is often accompanied by flushing, which is redness of the affected areas.
You may also experience heavy sweating, tingling of your fingers, and palpitations.
As these effects begin to resolve, some people experience chills, shivers, and a feeling of anxiety.
What Diseases Cause Hot Flashes?
Hot flashes are common around and during menopause, but they also can be a symptom of serious illness.
What Causes Hot Flashes?
Hot flashes and their precise causes remain under study and are not entirely understood.
A decrease in estrogen and changes in the body related to hypothalamus gland activity appear to be at work.
There’s also some evidence that inflammation,oxidative stress, and evengeneticsplay a role.
The decline in estrogen before and after menopause occurs gradually and at irregular intervals.
Fluctuating estrogen levels can affect how the hypothalamus works to regulate temperature.
Sweating occurs as the body attempts to cool off.
These drugs can include antidepressants,steroids, andcalcium channel blockersused for heart-related care.
How Do You Get Rid of Hot Flashes?
There are a number of ways tomanage hot flashes.
Some lifestyle adjustments can help you adapt, and several prescription medications can prevent hot flashes.
Drink Fluids
Drinking something cold is a fast and effective way to cool your body.
If you tend to feel hot, keeping a cool drink nearby can help you quickly cool off.
Also, keep in mind that staying hydrated is important too.
Dress to Stay Cool
Dressing in layers is important if hot flashes sneak up on you.
Dressing for comfort also requires planning, especially if you are used to wearing certain outfits for work.
You don’t have to compromise your style or professional look during menopause!
it’s possible for you to find fabrics that will wick the perspiration away from your skin.
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing techniques can shorten hot flashes and make them milder.
Teach yourself to start slow, deep breaths as soon as you feel a hot flash coming on.
Try sleeping with several light covers so you’re able to choose how many you need.
Weight loss may offer benefits to some people, especially at the beginning of menopause.
People who are overweight or obese may have more problems with hot flashes.
Medication
Prescription medications can help prevent hot flashes.
Veozah may lead to serious liver injury in some individuals.
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking Veozah and consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Some people experience improvement with aerobic exercise or yoga, while others do not.
Herbal Remedies
Most herbs are sold over-the-counter, without a healthcare provider’s prescription.
Be sure to verify that any herbal remedy is safe before you kick off using it.
Flaxseedis a natural supplement that can also be used as an ingredient in food.
There are many vitamin, plant, and herbal remedies with a reputation for helping hot flashes.
Stellate Ganglion Block
A procedure calledstellate ganglion blockmay offer benefits in treating symptoms of hot flashes.
This involves injecting an anesthetic into spinal regions and is often used for pain management.
Some studies have shown improvement after treatment.
They also can be signs of an underlying health condition or a side effect of medication.
While these vasomotor symptoms are typical, they can be treated through medication and lifestyle changes.
Talk to your healthcare provider about the interventions that may work best for you.
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