Could Your Hot Flashes Be a Result of Anxiety?

Hot flashes are incredibly uncomfortable shifts in body temperature, but could your hot flashes be a result of anxiety? While only your doctor can definitively determine the root cause of your hot flashes, there is a proven connection between anxiety and sudden changes in hot and cold temperatures. For some people, the issue is so severe that they have difficulty completing regular tasks or getting a full night of sleep.

What are Hot Flashes? 

To explain a hot flash simply, they are sudden changes in body temperature. In terms of anxiety, hot flashes can occur due to vasoconstriction. Vasoconstriction is the tension of blood vessels as they deliver more blood to areas of your body--typically during the "fight or flight" response. When this happens, your body heats up suddenly, which feels very much like a "flash." 

Of course, once the body heats up, its natural response is to cool off. You may also experience excessive sweating as your body tries to reach a normal temperature once again. For some people, this process leads to your body cooling down quickly, leading to a sudden feeling of chills. The entire process can be very uncomfortable.

Are Your Hot Flashes Due to Anxiety?

As mentioned, only your doctor can determine whether your hot flashes are caused by anxiety. However, there are a few factors considered, such as your anxiety score and the type of anxiety you experience. Your doctor will likely ask many questions about your day-to-day life and other medical histories to determine if anxiety is the root cause of your sudden temperature changes. 

How Can You Stop Anxiety-Induced Hot Flashes?

• Seek professional help from a cognitive therapist
• Exercise and have a balanced diet
• Participate in yoga or meditation
• Identify sources of stress, and eliminate or manage accordingly
• Keep hydrated

• Keep appropriate clothing nearby
• Try to distract yourself such as listening to music
• Get up and move--sometimes movement disrupts the hot flash

Conclusion

Hot flashes can certainly have an impact on your daily life. They are uncomfortable, distracting, and can even make it difficult to participate in your regular activities. If you are experiencing body temperature changes, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor to find the underlying cause.  Anxiety can have numerous impacts on your health, and understanding more about it can help you identify the best course of action moving forward.