By Dr. Teena Singh
As a natural biological process, menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. While it is a normal part of life, the symptoms of menopause can be difficult to manage and can be a challenging time for some women.
A hot flash is one of the most common symptoms of menopause. They are characterised by a sudden heat dissipation response, often accompanied by profuse sweating, internal heat, flushing, and chills. Sweating usually occurs on the face, neck, and chest, and it can last for 1–5 minutes. Some women may experience mild hot flashes that are easy to manage, while others may have severe hot flashes that interfere with their daily activities and sleep. Hot flashes are caused by a deficiency of the oestrogen hormone, which makes the body's hypothalamus (thermostat) more sensitive to changes in body temperature. They can occur in women experiencing natural menopause or surgical menopause (removal of the ovaries), and oestrogen therapy can effectively treat them.
Despite being a common symptom, many myths surround hot flashes during menopause. Some people believe that since they are short-lived, there is no need to seek medical help. However, while the average duration of hot flashes is two years, they can last for up to 20 years. Another myth is that hot flashes only occur in women in their 50s, but they may begin in their 30s.
Additionally, some believe that consuming soy products and wine containing phytoestrogens can relieve hot flashes, but overindulgence can be harmful to overall health.
Another misconception is that cooling the face by spraying cool water or ice can alleviate hot flashes. However, cooling tools may trigger more hot flashes, and it is better to maintain a stable body temperature by avoiding heat spikes and air conditioners. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for hot flashes during menopause, depending on the severity and frequency of the symptoms, including pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options.
It was once believed that hormone replacement therapy was the only effective treatment for hot flashes. However, there are now several pharmacologic options available, such as hormone replacement therapy with an oestrogen and progestin combination (as progestins prevent uterine cancer and oestrogen given alone can cause breast cancer), antidepressants, clonidine, oxybutynin pills or patches, nerve blocks, and more. Non-pharmacologic therapies, such as small lifestyle changes like maintaining a stable temperature, avoiding hot and spicy foods, caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and smoking, practising meditation and deep breathing exercises, and losing weight, can also help reduce the frequency of hot flashes.
It is essential to be cautious about the information found online or from friends, as it may not be accurate. There are various treatment options available for managing hot flashes and improving quality of life during menopause. Hot flashes can be a challenging and disruptive symptom of menopause, and it is important to consult a doctor for guidance through the ups and downs of menopause and determine the best course of action.
[The author is a senior consultant, gynaecologist, and obstetrician at Daffodils by Artemis.]
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