Q: What are the possible causes and cures for non-menopausal hot flashes? I have had them for over 25 years. They are mild to extremely intense with heavy perspiration and discomfort and I can have up to 35 in a 24-hour period. They occur night and day. I have noticed they sometimes seem to be more frequent when I am suffering from pain such as my back problems.
I have had hypothyroidism for 50 years. Thinking the thyroid medication might be contributing to them, I have had it adjusted with no noticeable improvement.
A: Hot flashes are most commonly attributed to menopause, however there are a number of causes other than that to be considered. The hypothalamus may be contributory, as this section of the brain regulates body temperatures. When the hypothalamus malfunctions, the most common cause is a natural drop in estrogen that occurs as a woman reaches peri-menopause or menopause, but also because of possible head trauma, a genetic disorder, or even an eating disorder.
An elevation in body temperature from using an electric blanket, heating pad or hot water bottle can cause a person to feel extremely warm and flushed, mimicking a hot flash, as can exposure to high temperatures in or out of doors. The consumption of specific spicy foods such as hot peppers can disrupt the body’s internal temperatures so blood vessels dilate and stimulate nerve endings, causing a sensation of extreme heat. Alcohol can induce the same reaction. In stressful situations the body may release hormones that elevate the flow of blood and cause a person to blush and create a warming sensation through the body. Such conditions as a urinary tract infection may cause a hot flash, as can carcinoid syndrome, an illness in which a tumor releases chemicals into the body that, in turn, creates symptoms similar to hot flashes.
The thyroid gland appears to have a bearing on almost everything that malfunctions within a person’s body and because you have had hot flashes for so long,thist might require investigation. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which a person’s thyroid fails to produce a sufficient amount of thyroid hormone. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, having an intolerance to cold, memory problems, constipation, and more. Because symptoms occur slowly, they may not be recognized early on as hypothyroidism since they mimic so many other disorders. Laboratory testing can confirm the diagnosis and medication can be prescribed. Most patients will notice improvement within a short period of time but the medication will have to be continued.
Because I don’t know what specific medication you are on, it is difficult for me to determine if medication is a cause for your 25-year history of hot flashes but according to my resources, drugs for hypothyroidism are not the culprits. I recommend you refrain from cured meats, spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol. Further, it would also be helpful to know if you have rosacea and variations in your blood pressure readings. Return to your prescribing physician and fill him or her in. Ask about specific lab testing that might rule out unusual tumors that secrete substances that can cause hot flashes. Then ask if switching to another medication and a visit to an endocrinologist might be appropriate.
Other readers who would like related information can order Dr. Gott’s Health Report “Thyroid Disorders” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2 US check or money order payable to Peter H. Gott, MD Health Report, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form from www.AskDrGottMD.com.
