$Unique_ID{BRK01427}
$Pretitle{Endocrine Glands and Metabolism}
$Title{What Causes Hot Flashes and Can They be Treated?}
$Subject{menopause hot flashes cause}
$Volume{C-22}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Causes Hot Flashes and Can They be Treated?


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QUESTION:  I think I have just had my first "hot flash" and now feel the need
to know more about them.  Although many of my friends say they are not much,
there are one or two who dread the experience.  What causes them, and how do
they feel to most women?  Can they be treated effectively?  I would appreciate
any information you can provide.

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ANSWER:  Almost nine out of ten women going through menopause will experience
hot flashes.  In many women, these flashes may begin before the last
menstruation.  Some of the flashes are related to blood-vessel constriction
and dilatation, according to some experts.  Estrogen deficiency plays a big
role.  As menopause sets in, your ovaries slow down their production of
estrogen.  Your pituitary gland does not recognize that this has happened, so
it works to stimulate the ovaries.  All these chemical actions within your
body make your internal temperature fluctuate and produce the flashes.
     Some women experience warning signals that they are about to have a
flash.  They feel like they are boiling up and ready to burst.  They may
experience warmth in the face, neck and chest.  The skin may become reddish
and flushed.  Perspiration usually occurs.  Women with severe flashes may
perspire intensely.  Once the attack is over, there is often a chilled feeling
and even some shivering.  I realize that all of this sounds very frightening,
but it is important to remember that these flashes are not dangerous, just
very uncomfortable.  If you are lucky, you may only experience these flashes a
few times a week, perhaps even in a milder form.
     The hot flashes usually last a few minutes, although in severe cases,
they may last an hour.  If the flashes bother you, your physician can be of
real help, as therapy with the female hormone, estrogen (also known as ERT or
"Estrogen Replacement Therapy) can often reduce or totally eliminate these
occurrences.
     Fortunately, in 50 percent of cases, the hot flashes last only a year.
About 30 percent of women may experience the flashes for up to two and a half
years, but many report that this distressing problem continues for years.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
