Vasomotor Symptoms of Menopause: Causes and How to Manage

Hot flashes might be one of the most popularized symptoms of menopause, but that doesn’t mean they’re any easier to deal with. These symptoms are part of a range of reactions collectively known as vasomotor symptoms, which include both hot flashes and night sweats.

Understanding vasomotor symptoms of menopause, including why and when they tend to happen, can be helpful in finding effective ways to get relief. Here’s more about what these symptoms are, why they occur, and how to address them.  

What are vasomotor symptoms of menopause?

Vasomotor symptoms, more commonly known as hot flashes and night sweats, are among the most prevalent and recognizable signs of menopause. These symptoms affect up to 80% of women going through menopause, with one in four experiencing them daily.

A hot flash is a sudden sensation of intense heat that spreads through the upper body, face, and neck. It can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes and may be accompanied by:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Flushing or reddening of the skin
• Sweating, particularly in the upper body
• Chills once the hot flash subsides

Night sweats are essentially hot flashes that occur during sleep, often causing women to wake up drenched in sweat. These nocturnal episodes can significantly disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and irritability during the day.

The duration and frequency of vasomotor symptoms can vary greatly among women. On average, these symptoms persist for about 7-10 years, though some women may experience them for a shorter or longer period.

What causes vasomotor symptoms?

The exact mechanisms behind vasomotor symptoms are not fully understood, but they are closely linked to the hormonal changes during menopause. As women go through perimenopause and then menopause, their estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate and start to decline. 

>>MORE: Perimenopause vs. Menopause: What’s the Difference?

‍Some research suggests that these hormonal fluctuations affect the hypothalamus, often referred to as the body's "thermostat." The hypothalamus becomes more sensitive to slight changes in body temperature, leading to an exaggerated response in an attempt to cool the body down. This response manifests as a hot flash or night sweat.

In addition to changes in hormone levels, several factors can increase the risk or severity of vasomotor symptoms:

• Genetics: some women may be more predisposed to experiencing severe vasomotor symptoms due to their genetic makeup.
• Lifestyle factors: smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, and high stress levels can all exacerbate symptoms.
• Body composition: women with a higher body mass index (BMI) tend to report more frequent and severe hot flashes.
• Ethnicity: Studies suggest that African American and Hispanic women may experience more severe and frequent vasomotor symptoms compared to Caucasian and Asian women.
• Medical conditions: certain conditions like thyroid disorders or diabetes may influence the frequency and intensity of vasomotor symptoms.
• Medications: some medications, particularly those that affect hormone levels, can trigger or worsen hot flashes.

Vasomotor symptoms of menopause treatment

Managing vasomotor symptoms of menopause often involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions. Here are some strategies to help alleviate the discomfort.

Natural ways to manage vasomotor symptoms of menopause

Natural ways to manage these symptoms include ways to help you keep cool before a hot flash strikes or when you feel a hot flash coming on, as well as a few ways to try and prevent vasomotor symptoms. 

• Dress in layers to easily remove clothing when a hot flash strikes
• Keep cool by using fans, drinking cold water, and keeping your bedroom cool at night.
• Identify and avoid trigger foods and drinks, like spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and hot beverages
• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga
• Exercise regularly to help regulate body temperature and improve overall well-being.

Medical treatments for vasomotor symptoms of menopause

If lifestyle changes don’t alleviate your symptoms, there are medical options that can help you find symptom relief or help reduce the instance of vasomotor symptoms. 

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): HRT is a type of hormone therapy that aims to supplement hormone production as your estrogen and progesterone levels decline. HRT can reduce symptom frequency and intensity by nearly 90%, but it does come with potential risks that should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
• Non-hormonal medications: Certain antidepressants, such as paroxetine (Paxil), citalopram (Celexa), and escitalopram (Lexapro) have shown to be successful at reducing severity and frequency of hot flashes.
• Complementary therapies: Some women find relief through acupuncture, herbal remedies, or cognitive behavioral therapy. However, the effectiveness of these treatments can vary, and it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying them.

Vasomotor symptoms of menopause: the bottom line

While vasomotor symptoms can be challenging, they’re a normal part of the menopausal transition for many women. By understanding these symptoms and exploring various management strategies, you can find ways to minimize their impact on your daily life. 

Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual needs and health status. Remember, what works for one woman may not work for another, so patience and persistence in finding the right combination of treatments is key.