What should you know about menopause hot flashes?

A hot flash may begin in the face, neck or chest and spread through the upper body. Sweating, a flushed feeling, chills afterward or a fast heartbeat can occur. Episodes may happen during the day or at night, when they are often called night sweats. Perimenopause can bring these symptoms before periods stop completely. Menopause is reached after twelve months without a menstrual period, unless another explanation is found.

Keep the room cool, wear removable layers and choose breathable sleepwear. A fan, cool drink and slow breathing may help during an episode. Notice personal triggers such as warm rooms, hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol or emotional stress, and adjust what is practical. If symptoms disrupt sleep, work or concentration, discuss hormone replacement therapy or non-hormonal menopause treatment with a qualified clinician. Treatment choice depends on your health history, symptoms and preferences.

Arrange an assessment if new sweating or flushing is persistent, severe, happens with fainting, chest pain, breathlessness, unexplained weight change or fever, or does not fit a menopause pattern. Seek prompt care for heavy bleeding after periods have stopped. A clinician can check for other causes and review medicines, thyroid symptoms and your menstrual history.

Ask what may be triggering your episodes, whether your symptoms fit perimenopause or menopause, which treatments match your medical history, and what benefits or side effects to monitor. Bring a brief record of timing, triggers, sleep disruption and any bleeding.