What Are Vasomotor Symptoms?
Vasomotor symptoms are hot flashes and night sweats. They’re one of the most common signs of menopause and perimenopause.
These symptoms happen when your body’s temperature control gets off balance because of changing hormones — especially low estrogen.
What Do Hot Flashes Feel Like?
A hot flash is a sudden feeling of heat that can spread through your upper body, face, or neck. You may:
Feel warm or sweaty all of a sudden
Look flushed (red in the face)
Feel your heart beat faster
Get chills after the flash is over
Hot flashes can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. Some women have a few a week. Others get them many times a day.
What Are Night Sweats?
Night sweats are hot flashes that happen while you're sleeping. They can make you wake up sweaty, uncomfortable, or even drenched. This can lead to:
Trouble falling back to sleep
Feeling tired or irritable the next day
Sleep problems over time
When Do These Symptoms Start?
Vasomotor symptoms usually start during perimenopause — the years before your periods stop. They can continue into menopause and sometimes even after.
Why Do They Happen?
When your estrogen levels drop, your brain (especially the part that controls temperature) gets “confused” and thinks you’re too hot — even if you’re not. So your body reacts by trying to cool you down fast: it makes you sweat, your heart races, and blood vessels open up near your skin. That’s a hot flash.
How Long Do Hot Flashes Last?
It depends on the person. For some women, hot flashes only last a few months. For others, they can last 5 to 10 years. Most women see them slow down over time.
What Can Help?
You don’t have to just put up with hot flashes and night sweats. There are ways to manage them. Here are some simple Tips:
Dress in layers so you can cool off quickly
Use a fan or keep your room cool
Avoid spicy food, alcohol, and caffeine — they can trigger flashes
Try slow, deep breathing when one starts
Keep a cool pack near your bed for night sweats
Medical Treatments
Hormone therapy (like estrogen) is the most effective option for many women
Non-hormone medicines (like some antidepressants or nerve medications) can also reduce hot flashes
Natural treatments like soy or black cohosh may help some women — talk to your doctor first
When to See a Doctor
Talk to your doctor if:
Hot flashes or night sweats are bothering your daily life
You’re not sleeping well
You’re feeling anxious, sad, or overwhelmed
You want help finding safe and effective treatment
Bottom Line
Hot flashes and night sweats are normal during menopause, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer. There are ways to feel better, sleep better, and take back control.
You’re not alone — and help is available.