Section 2: The Physiology of a Hot Flash

When experiencing a hot flash, the body’s skin temperature can increase by 5-7 degrees Fahrenheit. Hot flashes can happen at any time – day or night. When women experience hot flashes at night, they are referred to as “Night Sweats.” The symptoms are basically the same, except the sensation can wake you from your sleep.

The physiology of a hot flash:

• Rise in core body temperature, increased skin blood flow, increased heart rate
• Intense feeling of heat with reddening of upper body
• Heart rate peaks, increased blood flow peaks, sweating
• Ends with chills and shivering

It’s not possible to predict exactly when a hot flash might occur, but studies have shown that some things may increase the likelihood of a hot flash. Each woman’s triggers for hot flashes may be a little different, but some common ones include:

• drinking alcohol
• consuming products with caffeine
• eating spicy foods
• being in a hot room
• feeling stressed or anxious
• wearing tight clothing
• smoking or being exposed to cigarette smoke.