Hot Flashes & Night Sweats: The Most Common Symptoms of Menopause

If you've ever been caught in a wave of sudden heat that leaves you flushed, sweating, or even shivering moments later, you're not alone. Hot flashes and night sweats are the most common symptoms of menopause, affecting up to 80% of women, and they can last an average of 7 to 10 years.

Let's break down what's happening, why it matters, and what you can do to find relief.

What Is a Hot Flash?

A hot flash is a brief but intense sensation of heat, often felt in the face, neck, and chest. It usually lasts between 1 and 5 minutes and can be paired with:

• Sweating

• Chills or shivering

• A rapid heartbeat

• Feelings of anxiety or unease

When these happen at night, they're called night sweats — and they can seriously disrupt your sleep and overall well-being.

What Increases the Risk of Hot Flashes?

Some factors that may increase the frequency or intensity of hot flashes include:

• Higher abdominal fat

• Current or past cigarette smoking

• Surgical menopause (removal of ovaries)

Knowledge is power; if you are at an increased risk, start taking proactive steps toward relief today.

Treatment Options: What Actually Helps?

The Good News: There are many options to help you manage and reduce hot flashes, both with and without medication.

Lifestyle & Behavioral Approaches:

• Exercise and yoga

• Mindfulness-based interventions

• Paced breathing

• Relaxation techniques

• Weight loss

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Clinical hypnosis

• Acupuncture

• Chiropractic care

• Cooling strategies (light layers, fans, room temperature control)

• Dietary changes and supplements (with guidance)

Medical Options:

Hormone Therapy (HT)

• FDA-approved as a first-line treatment for hot flashes

• Particularly helpful if you're in early menopause or under 60

Non-hormonal medications

• Paroxetine (a low-dose SSRI)

• Fezolinetant (a new, FDA-approved option for hot flash relief)

Not sure if hormone therapy is right for you? Dive into this post to learn about who can benefit from hormone therapy, or book a complimentary consultation to discuss. 

Let’s Work Together to Improve Your Symptoms

Hot flashes and night sweats aren't just uncomfortable — they also impact your sleep, mood, and overall quality of life. You don't have to suffer through them or feel like it's just something you have to "tough out."

There are safe, effective treatments, and together, we can find what works best for you.

If you're dealing with hot flashes, I encourage you to start tracking your symptoms and bring that information to your next appointment. It's the first step in your journey back to feeling like yourself again.

Download the free Menopause Symptom Tracker or schedule a consultation to talk through your options — you deserve to understand your body.