The Effects of Long-Term Hot Flashes on Women

Menopause occurs when a woman stops having a monthly period or when her ovaries are surgically removed. The female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, are produced by the ovaries and influence how the body uses calcium and maintains cholesterol levels in the blood. Hot flashes are caused by the hormonal changes associated with menopause. The severity and duration of hot flashes varies with each individual. Short-term and long-term effects result from hot flashes.

Description of a Hot Flash

• Hot flashes may cause rapid heart beat.

  The momentary sensation of heat, a red or flushed face and sweating are all symptoms of a hot flash. The hot flash usually happens when the blood vessels near the skin surface begin to dilate to cool. The perspiration that accompanies a hot flash is the body's way of cooling itself down. Sometimes these hot flashes are accompanied by a rapid heart rate or possibly chills. Many times these hot flashes occur at night and are called night sweats. The severity of hot flashes usually lessens over time.

Possible Hot Flash Triggers

• Cigarette smoking is a known hot flash trigger.

  It is not possible to completely eliminate hot flashes during menopause, but there are certain known triggers that can be avoided. Cigarette smoke, heat, tight clothing, spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine and stress should be minimized.

Short-Term and Long-Term Effects

• Sensible eating may help prevent hot flash severity.

  The decrease in estrogen that accompanies menopause and contributes to the onset of hot flashes can also lead to other health problems in the short-term and can have an effect on a woman on a long-term basis. Poor bladder function, poor muscle tone, some memory loss and weight gain, as well as hot flashes, must be managed in order to ensure long-term health.

Actions to Help Manage Long-term Risks

• Exercise and a balanced diet may help lessen hot flashes.

  Eat a well-balanced diet and restrict calories to maintain a healthy weight. Fat intake should not be more than 30 percent of daily calories. Exercise regularly, avoid known hot flash triggers, dress in layers and consult with your doctor about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or alternative treatments.

Possible Long-Term Effects

• Lack of sleep may cause severe health problems.

  Lack of sleep, due to hot flashes, may be detrimental to overall health and well-being as it leads to fatigue and elevated cholesterol levels. Mood swings left untreated may result in depression and eroded self-image. Some women experience a loss of libido and may suffer from heart problems, if menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, are left untreated.

Possible Relief for Hot Flashes

• Hormone replacement therapy or alternative medicine may reduce hot flashes.

  Besides hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which may cause long-term health problems, there are several botanical and herbal therapies available. Many of these have shown promise in treating hot flashes and relieving their symptoms, but some of these may have adverse side effects. Soy products, black cohosh, flaxseed and evening primrose oil are among the products that may help. Consult with your health care provider before taking any medications to relieve hot flashes. Remember that for most women, hot flashes are only temporary.