Menopause can be a disruptive and stressful time, significantly affecting a woman's quality of life. Among the most common symptoms are vasomotor symptoms (VMS), which include hot flashes and night sweats. These symptoms are experienced by 60-80% of women during their menopausal transition.
Hot flashes and night sweats can vary in intensity and duration from woman to woman. Typically, they begin with a sudden feeling of heat, often accompanied by sweating, chills, anxiety, and even heart palpitations. These episodes can disturb sleep, leading to irritability and difficulty concentrating during the day.
Many women misinterpret hot flashes as simply being too hot, allowing symptoms to go untreated. However, untreated vasomotor symptoms can last an average of 10 years and affect sleep quality, productivity, and overall well-being. Treating hot flashes can also help alleviate related symptoms like anxiety, fatigue, and brain fog.