The causes of hot flashes are believed to be decreasing levels of estrogen or other naturally occurring hormonal changes, unique to a woman. The symptoms of hot flash 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 causes of hot flashes. There are certain triggers that can increase the severity and frequency, even though they are not the actual causes of hot flashes.
Hot flashes 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 for hot flashes, but because of the health risks associated with this form of treatment, it is not used nearly as often.
The symptoms of hot flash 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.
When a hot flash occurs at night, usually referred to as night sweats, it can interrupt a woman's sleep, 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 symptoms of hot flash affect their quality of life as much as emotional changes and mood swings, but mood swings sometimes trigger hot flashes. When a person is angry or frustrated, body temperature raises and rising body temperature is one of the symptoms of hot flash.
Sometimes referred to as hot flushes, these sudden changes in body temperature do not threaten a woman's health. No medical treatment is required, unless they happen frequently, are severe or disruptive to a woman's life. The causes of hot flashes are natural changes that happen in a woman's body as she ages, so they are nothing to worry about, but their is relief.
Most women can get relief from the symptoms of hot flash 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 the actually causes of hot flashes, 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 the symptoms of hot flash and other menopausal symptoms, please visit the Menopause and PMS Guide.
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