Hot flashes: a review
By
Sofia Jamal
Amira Elsabagh
Lubna Wani
Mayada Issa
June 25, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: An Overview of Hot Flashes: Clinical Insights and Management Strategies
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Hot Flashes Key Mechanisms Estrogen withdrawal and thermoregulatory dysfunction, including narrowed thermoneutral zone and increased neurokinin B signaling. Target Population Women experiencing menopause and men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy. Care Setting Outpatient care
Key Highlights
Hot flashes affect over 75% of women during menopause. Symptoms include episodic heat sensation, flushing, and sweating. Hormone replacement therapy is the most effective treatment for appropriate candidates. Nonhormonal pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic approaches are commonly used when estrogen is contraindicated. Hot flashes may be associated with increased long-term health risks, including cardiovascular disease. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Clinical presentation includes episodic heat sensation, flushing, and sweating. Management
Individualized treatment based on symptom severity, patient preferences, and risk profile. Monitoring & Follow-up
Assess quality of life and sleep disturbance related to hot flashes. Risks
Frequent vasomotor symptoms may be associated with increased cardiovascular and cognitive risks. Patient & Prescribing Data
Women experiencing menopause and men receiving gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists.
Lifestyle modifications and complementary therapies have variable evidence; emerging targeted therapies offer additional options.
Clinical Best Practices
Recognize and effectively manage hot flashes in outpatient care. Consider the impact of hot flashes on quality of life and daily functioning. Related Resources & Content
