Are Menopausal Hot Flashes Ruining Your Day?
Are Menopausal Hot Flashes Ruining Your Day?
The Big Picture
Hot flashes are a common issue for many women during menopause. Let's explore why they happen and what you can do about them.
Contents
- Understanding Hot Flashes
- Who Gets Hot Flashes?
- How Long Do They Last?
Understanding Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are a sudden feeling of warmth, usually most intense over the face, neck, and chest. They are often accompanied by sweating and sometimes chills. These symptoms are due to changes in your body's temperature regulation during menopause. Most women experience them during the late menopausal transition, but the frequency and severity can vary widely.
Who Gets Hot Flashes?
Around 80% of women experience hot flashes during menopause, but not everyone is affected the same way. Factors like obesity, smoking, and ethnic background can influence how often and how severe your hot flashes are. Interestingly, African American women report more frequent hot flashes, while Asian women report fewer.
How Long Do They Last?
Hot flashes can last for years after menopause. While many women find they decrease over time, some may experience them into their 70s. On average, symptoms persist for about 7.4 years, but this can be longer for some ethnic groups.
FAQs
What are hot flashes?
Hot flashes are sudden feelings of warmth, often with sweating, common during menopause.
Who experiences hot flashes most?
Around 80% of menopausal women experience hot flashes, with varying frequency and severity.
Can hot flashes last for years?
Yes, they can last for many years, sometimes into a woman's 70s.
The Bottom Line
Hot flashes are an inevitable part of menopause for many, but understanding them is the first step to managing them.
Additional References
- Randolph JF Jr, Sowers M, Bondarenko I, et al. The relationship of longitudinal change in reproductive hormones and vasomotor symptoms during the menopausal transition. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2005; 90:6106.
- National Institutes of Health. National Institutes of Health State-of-the-Science Conference statement: management of menopause-related symptoms. Ann Intern Med 2005; 142:1003.
- Woods NF, Mitchell ES. Symptoms during the perimenopause: prevalence, severity, trajectory, and significance in women's lives. Am J Med 2005; 118 Suppl 12B:14.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.