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Hot Flash

Meaning

A Hot Flash, clinically known as a vasomotor symptom, is a sudden, transient episode characterized by an intense feeling of heat that rapidly spreads across the face, neck, and chest, often accompanied by visible flushing, profuse perspiration, and sometimes followed by a sensation of cold. This symptom is the most common manifestation of the menopausal transition in women, directly resulting from the body’s adaptation to declining and fluctuating estrogen levels. While generally self-limiting, severe and frequent hot flashes can significantly impair sleep quality, disrupt daily activities, and reduce overall quality of life. The symptom reflects a temporary instability in the body’s core thermoregulatory mechanisms.