Hot Flashes and Night Sweats During Menopause​

Hot flashes and night sweats are among the most common and often most disruptive symptoms of menopause. These sudden sensations of intense heat can significantly impact your daily life, sleep, and overall well-being. We understand the challenges they present and are here to offer information and support to help you find relief.

Symptoms of Hot Flashes and Night Sweats During Menopause

Hot flashes during menopause are characterised by a sudden feeling of warmth, often concentrated in the face, neck, and chest. They may be accompanied by:

• Flushing: Reddening of the skin.
• Sweating: Profuse perspiration.
• Rapid heartbeat: An increased heart rate.
• Chills: Sometimes followed by shivering.

Night sweats during Menopause are essentially hot flashes that occur during sleep. They can drench your clothes and bedding, leading to:

• Sleep disruption: Frequent awakenings, making it difficult to get a good night’s rest.
• Fatigue: Daytime tiredness due to poor sleep.

Causes of Hot Flashes and Night Sweats during Menopause

These symptoms are primarily caused by the hormonal fluctuations that occur during perimenopause and menopause, specifically the decline in oestrogen levels. Changes in brain chemistry and the body’s temperature regulation system also play a role.

Managing Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, several strategies can help manage these symptoms:

Lifestyle Modifications:

• Dress in layers: This allows you to adjust your clothing as needed.
• Keep cool: Maintain a comfortable room temperature, use fans, and consider a cooling mattress pad.
• Avoid triggers: Identify and avoid things that seem to trigger your hot flashes, such as spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, and stress.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help manage stress and may reduce the frequency of hot flashes.
• Regular exercise: Moderate physical activity can improve overall well-being and may lessen hot flash severity.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can worsen hot flashes.

Complementary Therapies:

• Acupuncture: Some women find relief through acupuncture.
  
   
• Mind-body practices: Mindfulness, meditation, and guided imagery can help manage stress and improve coping mechanisms.

Medical Treatments:

• Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) or also referred to as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Estrogen therapy is the most effective treatment for hot flashes and night sweats. Your doctor can discuss the risks and benefits of MHT with you to determine if it’s an appropriate option.
• Non-Hormonal Medications: Certain medications can help reduce hot flashes and manage the symptoms of menopause.  Discuss these with your doctor to understand if this option is right for you including any potential side-effect for you personally.

When to See a Doctor

While hot flashes and night sweats are a normal part of menopause, it’s essential to consult with a medical professional if your symptoms are:

• Severe: Significantly disrupting your daily life or sleep.
• Frequent: Occurring multiple times a day or night.
• Accompanied by other concerning symptoms: Such as vaginal bleeding after menopause.

About Dr. Basu’s Approach

Dr. Basu offers comprehensive evaluations and personalised treatment plans to address your unique needs and improve your quality of life.

If you have concerns about managing menopause, a gynaecologist can provide you with expert guidance.

Schedule a consultation to safely discuss your concerns with Dr. Basu now.