Hot flashes

Hot flashes are sudden waves of heat, flushing and sweating, most often in the face, neck and chest, that occur commonly during the menopause transition.

Each episode lasts from a few seconds to several minutes and may be followed by chills; when they happen at night they are called night sweats and can disrupt sleep. They arise from changes in the brain's temperature regulation as estrogen levels fall and, with night sweats, are grouped as vasomotor symptoms. Frequency and severity vary widely, and they can persist for years. Certain cancer treatments and medications can also cause them.

Diagnosis is based on symptom history and age, with hormone testing rarely necessary; clinicians use symptom diaries and scales to gauge severity. Established options include hormone therapy, several non-hormonal prescription medications and lifestyle adjustments such as layered clothing and trigger avoidance. Direct clinical evidence on cannabidiol for hot flashes is insufficient.