Hot flashes produce a sudden sensation of warmth that is generally most intense on the face, neck and chest. The skin may also redden as if you are blushing. The flashes cause profuse sweating that makes you feel cold when the heat dissipates. Known as night sweats, hot flashes that occur at night can lead to chronic insomnia and memory problems as well as anxiety and depression.
When people hear the term hot flashes, they usually think of middle-aged women going through menopause. While they are a common menopausal symptom, hot flashes can also occur because of other conditions. Understanding the other factors will help you to determine the underlying reason that you are experiencing this uncomfortable symptom.
Hot flashes can be a side effect of certain prescription drugs, including osteoporosis and breast cancer medications. Other chemotherapy agents and over-the-counter medications may also cause this symptom. Check the label and package insert information of all your medications. Certain spicy foods like hot peppers can stimulate nerve endings and cause your blood vessels to dilate. These biological changes can create a feeling of extreme heat that mimics hot flashes.
Alcohol can also produce a similar effect in some people. When you are under stress, nervous or upset, your body releases epinephrine and norepinephrine. These hormones increase blood flow, which can produce a warming sensation.
Insufficient estrogen can also trigger hot flashes because it can cause the hypothalamus to malfunction. Known as the master gland, this organ is responsible for regulating your body’s temperature. Other potential causes include head trauma, eating disorders or genetics. An infection and carcinoid syndrome, the release of chemicals from a tumor into the bloodstream and an overactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, resulting from Graves’ disease or thyroiditis can produce hot flashes as well.
You should keep a diary of each incident, including the symptoms that you experienced and the foods that you ate or drank. This journal will help our physician determine the underlying cause of your hot flashes.
The good news is that you don’t have to live with your hot flashes. While avoiding triggers and making other lifestyle changes can alleviate these symptoms for some people, others may benefit from hormone replacement therapy. If you are experiencing hot flashes, schedule a consultation at Better Life Carolinas. Dr. Mickey Barber can review your journal, discuss your medical history and perform a thorough examination.
The consultation allows our physician to order essential diagnostic tests. The results of the examination and tests will help determine possible treatment options. We have locations in Mt. Pleasant and Charlotte. Contact us today to book your appointment.