Hot flashes

What are hot flashes?

Hot flashes, also known as hot flushes, are sudden feelings of warmth that spread across the body and face. They can cause sweating and reddening of the skin. Hot flashes are a common symptom of perimenopause and menopause due to changing estrogen levels.

What causes hot flashes?

Hot flashes are primarily caused by decreasing estrogen levels. Estrogen helps regulate body temperature, and lower levels can disrupt this process. Things that can trigger or worsen hot flashes include:

• Perimenopause and menopause


• Some medical treatments like chemotherapy or tamoxifen


• Stress


• Caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods


• Warm environments

What do hot flashes feel like?

The feeling associated with a hot flash can range from a fleeting sense of warmth to an intense, sudden heat that spreads through the entire body. Some additional feelings may include:

• Sweating, especially at night


• Reddening of the face and skin


• Rapid heartbeat


• Anxiety or irritability


• Difficulty concentrating

Hot flashes at night can also disturb sleep.

How to find relief from hot flashes

There are a few methods that can provide some relief:

• Hormone therapy - Estrogen therapy is the most effective treatment, but has risks. Low-dose options may be safer.


• Lifestyle changes - Avoid triggers, dress in layers, lower room temperature, practice stress reduction.


• Medications - Antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs can ease hot flashes.


• Herbal remedies - Some women find relief from supplements like black cohosh or phytoestrogens.

The Renew Hormone Clinic provides customized hormone therapy and supplements to effectively treat hot flashes and other menopause symptoms. Their innovative treatments can safely relieve hot flashes and improve quality of life.