Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause, although they also occur due to a thyroid condition. A flash may mean a sudden sensation of heat all over the body or just in the upper part. It may also cause skin flushing on the chest, arms, and back.
When hot flashes occur at night, people may refer to them as night sweats. Lifestyle changes, such as dressing in layers,
This article discusses the various causes of hot flashes, including menopause and other medical conditions. It also looks at prevention strategies, treatment options, and when to seek medical advice.
Hot flashes are a
Menopause transition
When people experience menopause transition, they will notice
Some females
When estrogen levels decline as a person gets older, it
Other menopause transition symptoms include:
Learn about menopausal hot flashes here.
Treatment options
The treatment a doctor recommends depends on the severity of the hot flashes. If a person is experiencing mild hot flashes, they may only need to:
- use fans in their room
- avoid alcohol
- avoid spicy food
- wear cool materials
For more severe symptoms, a doctor may prescribe hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Learn more about what to expect during menopause here.
Thyroid conditions
Thyroid conditions, including hyper- and hypothyroidism, and menopause transition share similar symptoms, including hot flashes.
If a person is at the age where they could be transitioning to menopause, they may want to ask their doctor to check their thyroid gland.
A doctor can diagnose a thyroid problem, with a blood test that measures levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
Learn about the link between menopause and thyroid here.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. It can produce symptoms that are very similar to menopause transition, including hot flashes.
Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism that are similar to menopause transition include:
- heat intolerance
- heart palpitations
- tachycardia (fast heartbeat)
- insomnia
Treatment options
A doctor may prescribe the
- beta-blockers
- antithyroid medicines
- radioiodine surgery
- thyroid surgery
Learn more about hyperthyroidism here.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid that does not produce enough thyroid hormone to meet the body’s needs. Hypothyroidism sometimes causes hot flashes, but it is not the most common symptom.
Other symptoms include:
- changes in body temperature
- joint and muscle pain
- fatigue
- cold intolerance
Treatment options
While there is no cure for the condition, doctors can treat and control it by supplementing the thyroid hormone. Treatment may include synthetic thyroxine, such as levothyroxine or iodine, along with a regulated diet.
Learn more about hypothyroidism here.
Diabetes
People transitioning through the years to menopause, known as perimenopause, may continue to menstruate, but their hormone levels will change.
If a person is also living with diabetes, they may notice intense heat over their bodies.
Keeping active is an important part of diabetes care, but people must ensure they do not overheat when exercising. During workouts, people should take regular breaks, hydrate, and rest when they feel tired.
Treatment options
To treat perimenopause and diabetes, a doctor may prescribe hormone therapy, as it can treat menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, while also potentially reducing the risk of diabetes.
Other steps a person can take to reduce their risk of diabetes include lifestyle changes such as:
- keeping active
- limiting fatty and sugary foods
- maintaining a healthy weight
- consuming the recommended amount of omega 3
Learn more about diabetes here.
Premature ovarian insufficiency
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) occurs when a person’s ovaries stop working before they are 40. Symptoms may be similar to menopause transition, with people experiencing hot flashes. Other similar symptoms include vaginal dryness and pain during sex.
Treatment options
A doctor may treat POI with hormone therapy. The goal of hormone therapy is to provide symptom relief and ensure a person maintains bone, vascular, and sexual health as they get older.
A person with POI may also receive counseling and fertility treatment options.
Learn more about premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) here.
Cancer treatments and hot flashes
Cancer survivors and people undergoing chemotherapy sometimes report experiences of hot flashes or night sweats.
Other cancer-related treatments that may cause hot flashes
- hormone therapy (tamoxifen)
- radiation therapy
- tricyclic anti-depressants
- steroids
Treatment options
If a person
High levels of stress may also contribute to night sweats or hot flashes. In general, psychological treatments that help alleviate anxiety and stress
Learn more about psychotherapy here.
Other techniques to help reduce the symptoms of night sweats include:
A person may want to combine drug therapy with psychological therapy.
While a
Some lifestyle changes may relieve hot flashes, including the
- dressing in layers
- carrying a portable fan
- avoiding alcohol
- stopping smoking
- maintaining a moderate weight
- practicing yoga and meditation (online or in-class)
If a person is experiencing consistent, severe hot flashes that affect their daily life, they could consider talking with a doctor or healthcare professional about suitable treatments.
Not all treatments will work for everyone, so it is important to persevere with different treatment options until finding one that works. It is a good idea for people to keep their doctor updated on progress.
Hot flashes are a
For milder cases of hot flashes, a person may find that lifestyle changes help alleviate discomfort. For more severe symptoms, a person should speak with their doctor and work on a treatment plan that focuses on drug and psychological therapy.
There are alternative treatments if a person cannot take estrogen therapy.