Hot Flushes
0 Treatments
7 FAQs
Hot flushes are one of the most common symptoms of menopause, affecting up to 80% of women during this transition. They are characterised by sudden feelings of intense warmth, typically spreading across the face, neck, and chest, often accompanied by sweating, flushing, and palpitations. Hot flushes result from fluctuations in oestrogen levels, which affect the body's thermoregulatory centre in the brain, causing a misinterpretation of temperature control.
Treatments (0)
Advice for Hot Flushes
Hot flushes vary in frequency, duration, and severity among individuals. Some women experience mild episodes, while others find them debilitating. Common symptoms include a sudden sensation of heat, redness of the face and upper body, excessive sweating, and, in some cases, a rapid heartbeat or dizziness. Night sweats, a nighttime version of hot flushes, can interrupt sleep, leading to fatigue, irritability, and concentration difficulties during the day. These symptoms can persist for several years after menopause, affecting quality of life, work performance, and emotional well-being.
Hot Flushes FAQs (7)
Hot flushes are sudden feelings of warmth that spread over the face, neck, and chest, often accompanied by sweating, flushing, and a rapid heartbeat. They are a common symptom of menopause caused by hormonal changes affecting the body's temperature regulation.
Hot flushes occur due to a decline in oestrogen levels, which affects the brain’s thermoregulatory centre (hypothalamus). This causes the body to overreact to temperature changes, triggering sudden heat sensations and sweating.
Hot flushes can last a few seconds to several minutes per episode. They may persist for several years, with most women experiencing them for around 5–7 years after menopause, though some may have them for longer.
Common triggers include:
- Caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods
- Hot weather or warm environments
- Stress and anxiety
- Smoking
- Tight clothing
Lifestyle changes can help manage hot flushes, including:
- Wearing light, breathable clothing
- Keeping your bedroom cool at night
- Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake
- Practising stress management techniques like yoga or meditation
- Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): The most effective treatment for severe hot flushes, but not suitable for everyone.
- Non-hormonal treatments: Veoza tablets (Fezolinetant) provide a new hormone-free alternative that directly targets the brain’s temperature regulation.
- Lifestyle changes: Managing diet, stress, and sleep can help reduce symptoms.
You should seek medical advice if:
- Hot flushes severely impact your daily life.
- They are accompanied by unexplained weight loss, palpitations, or dizziness.
- They continue long after menopause or occur before age 45.