Causes of Night Sweats and Hot Flashes

Night sweats and hot flashes are an unfortunate symptom of many conditions. The good news is that in many cases, they’re easily treatable. But, to effectively alleviate sudden hot flashes, we need to pinpoint the underlying cause. 

The most common causes of night sweats and hot flashes include:

Menopause

Hot flashes and night sweats are key symptoms of menopause and perimenopause. They result from declining estrogen levels, as low estrogen causes the hypothalamus to become more sensitive.

The hypothalamus acts as the body’s temperature control center. When it’s more sensitive to mild changes in body temperature, it may trigger a hot flash in an attempt to cool you down. 

Tampa bioidentical hormone therapy can alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, and other menopause symptoms by balancing your estrogen levels. 

Thyroid Problems

Heat intolerance, elevated body temperature, and night sweats are possible symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) can cause poor body temperature regulation, as thyroid hormones affect energy homeostasis and your body’s ability to maintain core body temperature. 

Anxiety

In periods of intense anxiety or stress, some people experience hot flashes. This occurs when the body releases stress hormones, which boost circulation to your muscles. This can make you suddenly feel hot. 

Consider stress management strategies, like therapeutic yoga in Tampa, to help you avoid anxiety-related hot flashes. 

PMS and Pregnancy

Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels during PMS and pregnancy can trigger night sweats and hot flashes. Estrogen and progesterone affect your body’s ability to regulate temperature. So, as these hormone levels fluctuate, you may experience bouts of excessive sweating, flushing, and rapid heartbeat. 

At Mind Body Spirit Care in Tampa, we offer holistic and integrative care for symptoms of hormonal imbalance, including night sweats and hot flashes. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!