The causes of hot flushes, hot flashes or night sweats are believed to be decreasing levels of estrogen or other naturally occurring hormonal changes, unique to a woman. The symptoms of hot flushes and other symptoms of menopause are more severe in women who have had their ovaries surgically removed, supporting the belief that loss of hormones produced by the ovaries are the actual causes of hot flashes. Certain things trigger hot flushes, increase their severity and frequency, even though they are not the actual causes of hot flushes.
Hot flushes, flashes or night sweats are considered a ?vasomotor? symptom, because dilation of the blood vessels and changes in circulation are involved. For many years estrogen replacement therapy was the most commonly recommended treatment, but because of the health risks associated with this form of treatment, it is not recommended nearly as often.
The symptoms of hot flushes typically include excessive warmth in the chest, neck and face. The hands and feet may feel chilled at the same time, once the heat has subsided a woman often feels chilled all over. Increased perspiration under the arms, on the chest, neck and forehead may occur. A woman?s face and neck may look red, blotchy or ?flushed?.
When hot flushes occur at night they are usually called night sweats. They can interrupt a woman?s sleep, sometimes leading to insomnia, decreasing energy levels and overall sense of well being. A recent study indicates that the majority of peri-menopausal (a term referring to the time ?around? menopause) women do not feel that hot flushes affect their quality of life as much as emotional changes and mood swings. Mood swings and emotions like anger, frustration and irritability are not causes of hot flushes, but they can be triggers.
The sudden changes in body temperature are not believed to threaten a woman?s health. No medical treatment is required, unless they happen frequently, are severe or disruptive to a woman?s life. In these cases, doctors may recommend hormone replacement therapy. For women who are bothered by them, but cannot or do not want to risk hormone therapy, there are natural herbs and other plant components that can relieve them.
Most women can get relief from hot flushes by using an herbal supplement called black cohosh. This herb was used historically by Native American healers to correct symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, to help regulate menstrual cycles, as a diuretic and a mild sedative. Research has shown that women get as much relief from hot flashes when using black cohosh as they do from estrogen replacement. It is highly recommended for women who can not risk estrogen replacement therapy, because of previous cancers or other concerns.
Because, the Women?s Health Initiative found that the health benefits of hormone replacement therapy do not outweigh the risks, most doctors no longer recommend this treatment unless numerous symptoms are present and are severely impairing a woman?s ability to function, her relationships or her quality of life. Black cohosh, on the other hand, is being recommended more and more.
Although they are not actually causes of hot flushes, there are a number of substances that can trigger them. By using a symptoms diary or journal, you may be able to find other triggers that affect you personally. The most common triggers are alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and spicy foods. For more information about hot flushes and other menopausal symptoms, please visit the Menopause and PMS Guide. Patsy Hamilton was a health care professional for more than twenty years before she became a freelance writer. Currently she writes informational articles related to women?s health for the Menopause and PMS Guide. Read more at www.menopause-and-pms-guide.com. | |
