What Is a Hot Flash?
A hot flash, sometimes called a hot flush, is a quick feeling of heat and sometimes a red, flushed face and sweating. The exact cause of hot flashes is not known, but may be related to changes in circulation.
Hot flashes happen when the blood vessels near the skin's surface dilate to cool. A woman may also sweat to cool down her body. And some women have a rapid heart rate or chills.
Hot flashes with sweating can also happen at night. These are called night sweats and may make it harder to sleep.
A hot flush is a hot flash plus redness in the face and neck.
How Long Will I Have Hot Flashes?
Hot flashes vary among women going through menopause. Some women have hot flashes for a very short time during menopause. Other women may have hot flashes for life. Generally, hot flashes are less severe as time passes.