Diseases
hot flashes
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
A hot flash is the sudden feeling of warmth in the upper body, which is usually most intense over the face, neck and chest. Your skin might redden, as if you're blushing. A hot flash can also cause sweating. If you lose too much body heat, you might feel chilled afterward
Symptoms
- a sudden feeling of warmth spreading through your chest, neck and face
- a flushed appearance with red, blotchy skin
- rapid heartbeat
- perspiration, mostly on your upper body
- a chilled feeling as the hot flash lets up
Causes
- hot flashes are most commonly caused by changing hormone levels before, during and after menopause.
- rarely, hot flashes and nights sweats are caused by something other than menopause.
Risk factors
- smoking. women who smoke are more likely to get hot flashes.
- obesity. a high body mass index is associated with a higher frequency of hf
- race. more black women report having hot flashes
Diagnosis
- physical exam.
- signs and symptoms.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is hot flashes?
A hot flash is the sudden feeling of warmth in the upper body, which is usually most intense over the face, neck and chest. Your skin might redden, as if you're blushing. A hot flash can also cause sweating. If you lose too much body heat, you might feel chilled afterward
What are the symptoms of hot flashes?
a sudden feeling of warmth spreading through your chest, neck and face, a flushed appearance with red, blotchy skin, rapid heartbeat, perspiration, mostly on your upper body, a chilled feeling as the hot flash lets up
What causes hot flashes?
hot flashes are most commonly caused by changing hormone levels before, during and after menopause.; rarely, hot flashes and nights sweats are caused by something other than menopause.
Which medicines are used for hot flashes?
ergotamine, mirtazapine
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