Hot flashes are usually caused by a drop in estrogen levels. Estrogen, a type of hormone, helps control your body’s temperature levels. When estrogen levels drop as a result of menopause, your body can struggle to maintain a regular temperature.
Hot flashes are a sudden feeling of warmth, often in the face, neck, or chest. They’re often accompanied by flushed red skin, an increased heart rate, and tingling in your fingers, and symptoms can happen during the day or night (night sweats).
Hot flashes are one of the most common symptoms of menopause and perimenopause. They’re usually caused by fluctuating hormone levels, which are common during menopause. While rare, hot flashes can also be caused by other factors, such as medications, thyroid problems, or certain types of cancer.
In addition to hot flashes, many individuals experience: