It isn't uncommon for women going through menopause to experience hot flashes. These sudden sensations of warmth are often linked to the hypothalamus, which is the area of the brain that regulates your body temperature. It appears that hormonal changes can disrupt its function, resulting in feelings of intense heat within the upper body and face.
But not all women going through this natural phase in life suffer hot flashes, which can lead to questions involving the reason why.
Hot Flashes
The reason why some women experience hot flashes while others do not is still unclear, explains the Mayo Clinic. However, there are four factors that greatly increase your risk, none of which include procreation. It doesn't appear that women with children are any less likely to suffer from hot flashes than those without. Smoking, body mass index, level of activity and ethnicity are the only factors that potentially affect occurrence.
Symptoms
Besides the sudden sensation of warmth, women experiencing hot flashes may also notice a feeling of pressure in the head just prior to the hot flash. It may also be accompanied by redness, flushing, perspiration and heart palpitations. Though not as common, you may suffer from weakness, dizziness, lightheadedness and fatigue as well.
Time Frame
According to the National Institute of Aging, the length of a hot flash can vary greatly from woman to woman. Some women may only experience this sudden sensation of intense heat for 30 seconds, while others can feel its effects for as long as 10 minutes. The frequency of their occurrence can fluctuate as well.
Treatment
Though there isn't a need to treat hot flashes, you can reduce their frequency by taking part in hormone replacement therapy, advises the National Women's Health Information Center. By supplementing estrogen and progesterone, you balance your hormone levels, which can prevent the disruption in the function of the hypothalamus. If this part of the brain continues to work as normal, you're less likely to experience sudden sensations of warmth. You may also respond favorably to other prescription medications, such as gabapentin, clonidine, venlafaxine or fluoxetine. Your doctor can help you determine which treatment is best for you.
Self-Care
You may also help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes by putting into place certain self-care measures. Eating a well-balanced diet and getting regular exercise can not only improve your health but also the occurrence of hot flashes. Quitting smoking, losing excess pounds and keeping cool are also beneficial.
