What’s really causing your night sweats?

(NC) Waking up in the middle of the night covered in sweat feels like something that follows a bad dream, but for many women experiencing menopause, it’s a reality of this stage of life.

All women—if they live long enough—will go through menopause: a moment defined as 12 months after the body stops its cycle of ovulation and periods. During this health transition, one in four women will experience hot flashes and night sweats, also known as vasomotor symptoms (VMS), averaging four to five episodes each day. For many women, VMS can be moderate to severe, with up to 20 hot flashes per day, significantly affecting both their personal and professional lives.

Despite how common they are, vasomotor symptoms are not widely understood. According to a global survey conducted by Astellas Pharma, only one in four women who have experienced, or are currently experiencing, menopause are knowledgeable about VMS.

Why do hot flashes and night sweats happen?
During menopause, hormonal changes affect how the body regulates temperature and blood pressure, leading to hot flashes and night sweats.

When a hot flash is triggered, an uncomfortable, sometimes intense, sensation of heat is experienced that can last up to 10 minutes, or even longer.

When hot flashes happen during sleep, they can cause intense, sheet-soaking night sweats.

Do women have to just “tough it out?”
While menopause-related hot flashes and night sweats are caused by a natural health transition, they’re real symptoms that can negatively impact a woman’s health and vitality. In fact, night sweats often disrupt sleep, having a ripple effect on mood, concentration and overall well-being.

Support and effective treatments are available, including new non-hormonal options. If you’re experiencing VMS, talk to your healthcare professional to get the help you deserve.

Learn more about VMS at overheating.ca.