Did I just have a hot flash?
11/11/2024 by Jenna Johnson, APRN, C.N.P., D.N.P.
Are you feeling the heat in more than one way? Hot flashes are a common symptom of the menopausal transition for many patients, but they don't have to be a reason for sweating any time of the year.
Hot flashes — also called vasomotor symptoms, hot flushes or night sweats — are experienced by up to 85% of women with varying degrees as they move through the perimenopausal transition. This happens when women stop having monthly menstrual bleeding cycles. They can occur both day and night and disrupt daily life for many. We are not entirely sure why they happen. Still, research suggests this change is partially related to a decline in hormone levels and a change in hormone fluctuations that every woman experiences. This change leads to waves of the following symptoms:
- Inappropriate dilation of blood vessels of the skin.
- Increased perspiration.
- Measurable changes in the body surface temperature.
These symptoms are most notable along the face, neck and chest and can last anywhere from a minute or two to more than five minutes at a time for some. They can be worse for women with a higher body mass index (BMI), those who smoke, or people who are of African American or Hispanic heritage.
Several non-medication options can help:
- Staying out of the heat in favor of a cool room or environment.
- Using a fan, stand in a breeze in lightweight cotton clothing to allow air to move over the skin and reduce surface temperature.
- Dress in layers.
- Avoid warm beverages and spicy foods.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and tobacco products.
- Keep up with regular exercise.
If these measures don't help, there are both hormonal and non-hormonal medication options that you can talk to your healthcare clinician about if you are under the age of 60 and within 10 years of your last menstrual period.
There is much controversy regarding the benefits and potential harms of over-the-counter supplements such as soy isoflavones, black cohosh, evening primrose oil and others that claim to help with menopausal symptoms. Talking to your clinician about these supplements before starting them is best. Remember that over-the-counter medications, even if labeled as natural, can interact poorly with your prescription medications, cause unwanted side effects or exacerbate other health concerns. They can make the symptoms worse in some patients, too. For more information, visit these trusted resource websites.
- Hot flashes (mayoclinic.org).
- The North American Menopause Society (NAMS).
You don't need to suffer through hot flashes any longer. Talk to your healthcare clinician today.
Jenna Johnson, APRN, C.N.P., D.N.P., is a primary care nurse practitioner interested in Women's Health. She has dual certifications in Adult and Women's Health. She provides primary care through Community Internal Medicine, Geriatrics and Palliative Care and helps staff the Primary Care in Rochester Gynecology Clinic.