Dr. Lindsay Shirreff turns down the heat on hot flashes

Women in the menopausal stage of life often experience symptoms, such as hot flashes, which can sometimes have a significant impact on their quality of life. But what exactly is a hot flash? You might have heard of the term in passing, or maybe even experienced a hot flash first-hand.

It typically starts with a sudden feeling of warmth, usually in the upper body. And we’re not talking about the sudden warmth you feel on your body when you step outside on a sunny, summer afternoon. Imagine that your internal thermostat is on overdrive, with the temperature cranked up to “sauna”. Your skin may become red and you might even begin to sweat. This can last between three to four minutes; afterwards, it is not uncommon to feel a chill because of the heat lost during the hot flash.

Even with a very basic understanding of hot flashes, it might be difficult to recognize the symptoms if you are experiencing one for the first time – or even know how to manage symptoms as they happen.

We spoke with Dr. Shirreff, to answer all of your burning questions about hot flashes – pun intended.

What exactly is a hot flash?

We don’t fully understand the mechanism of a hot flash, although it is thought to happen as a result of change within the hypothalamus, which is a structure in the brain that regulates the body’s temperature.

Hot flashes and night sweats are called vasomotor symptoms. They are one of the most common symptoms of menopause and are experienced by over 80 per cent of women. Vasomotor symptoms last an average of seven years, although a subset of women, up to 30 percent, may be impacted by these symptoms for longer than ten years.

What triggers a hot flash?

Triggers are different for everyone, but can include alcohol, spicy foods, caffeine, or hot food or liquids. However, research regarding lifestyle triggers is mixed and we can’t say for sure what specific lifestyle factors trigger people’s vasomotor symptoms.

The pattern of hot flashes is unique to each woman. Some people suffer from bothersome symptoms multiple times per day, whereas others may not experience any of these symptoms, or are bothered by them very little.

Are there any lifestyle changes that can mitigate or lessen the intensity of a hot flash?

There is some evidence that certain low-risk options such as weight loss, cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction can help to mitigate hot flashes. Some people may also experience relief using cooling techniques such as fans and moisture-wicking sheets. It is important for people suffering from vasomotor symptoms to speak to their health-care provider to discuss all treatment options.

Are hot flashes dangerous?

While hot flashes themselves are not inherently dangerous, there is emerging evidence that hot flashes are associated with increased risk of heart disease in some women. Night sweats can also lead to sleep disturbances, which can negatively impact women’s health.

What can be mistaken for a hot flash?

Many conditions can mimic hot flashes aside from menopause. Medical conditions such as thyroid disease, infection or, rarely, cancer can cause hot flashes. Certain medications and some antidepressant medications, are associated with hot flashes. It is important for people to visit their doctor if they aren’t sure if their hot flashes are caused by menopause.  

When should individuals seek help to manage their hot flash symptoms?

If people are bothered by vasomotor symptoms, they should seek help from their health-care provider. There are many excellent prescription treatments (hormonal and non-hormonal) for vasomotor symptoms that are available.  

The internationally recognized Menopause Clinic at Mount Sinai Toronto offers innovative treatment options for individuals who are experiencing significant symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Uniquely tailored treatment options are based on patient symptoms, personal preferences and past medical and family history.