Hot flashes can be caused by several conditions besides menopause. Some other common causes include:
- Perimenopause - The transition period leading up to menopause when hormone levels fluctuate irregularly can trigger hot flashes. Perimenopause usually begins for women in their late 30s to late 40s as the ovaries start to run out of viable eggs.
- Medical treatments or medications - Certain cancer treatments, antidepressants, birth control pills, and other medications can induce menopause-like symptoms including hot flashes as a side effect.
- Surgical menopause - Removal of both ovaries causes immediate menopause and intense hot flashes are very common afterwards. Women who have hysterectomies may enter menopause sooner.
- Primary ovarian insufficiency - Also known as premature ovarian failure, this condition causes ovarian function loss in women under 40 years old. It brings on menopausal symptoms early.
- Thyroid problems - Both overactive (hyperthyroidism) and underactive (hypothyroidism) thyroid disease can trigger hot flashes. Getting proper thyroid treatment often helps stabilize body temperature regulation.
- Chronic stress - High long-term stress exposes the body to elevated stress hormones like cortisol, which can disrupt temperature control and hormonal balance. Managing stress helps.
Other less common causes:
- Panic disorder
- Carcinoid syndrome
- Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Chronic active hepatitis
- HIV/AIDS
- Tuberculosis
Factors that can worsen hot flashes:
- Spicy foods
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Stress
- Warm environments
- Smoking
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
- Some medications like steroids
Seeking Treatment
If you're experiencing intense or frequent hot flashes, night sweats that disrupt sleep, or other perimenopause or menopause symptoms, see your doctor to explore treatment options.
Blood tests can check hormone levels and determine if you've entered perimenopause or menopause. Your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes like avoiding triggers, layering clothing, trying cooling techniques, and managing stress.
Hormone therapy with estrogen or progesterone medications may provide relief if hot flashes interfere with your quality of life. Bioidentical hormones customized to match your body's natural hormones are also an option.
Talk to your doctor and visit Equilibrium Hormone Institute to develop a personalized treatment plan for your symptoms. Our caring staff and expert physicians focus on hormone balance to help women thrive through perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Contact us today to take charge of your health during this transition.
