Hot Flashes During Menopause May Be Linked to Future Health Risks, Study Finds
Philadelphia – A recent study presented at The Menopause Society’s annual meeting in Philadelphia has found that intense hot flashes during menopause may be associated with an increased risk of future heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
The study, which included nearly 250 women between the ages of 45 and 67 experiencing menopausal symptoms, measured the quality of their sleep and recorded their hot flashes using a device. Researchers then analyzed blood samples for specific protein biomarkers of heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
The findings revealed that intense hot flashes during sleep were associated with adverse profiles of a protein biomarker called beta-amyloid 42/40, which is related to amyloid plaques in the brain, a key component of Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Rebecca Thurston, the lead study author and a professor of psychiatry, epidemiology, and psychology, stated that hot flashes during sleep could be a marker of women at risk for Alzheimer’s dementia.
The study also showed a connection between hot flashes during the day and higher levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation linked to heart disease. Previous research led by Dr. Thurston found that frequent or persistent hot flashes during early menopause increased the risk of cardiovascular events.
This new research suggests that hot flashes and night sweats, common symptoms of menopause, may not be as benign as previously thought and could indicate future health risks.
However, it is important to note that these findings do not prove causation. Dr. Stephanie Faubion, director of the Mayo Clinic’s Women’s Health Specialty Clinic, stated that hot flashes are just a marker of increased risks and further research is needed to determine if treating night sweats would diminish the risks.
Due to the growing body of evidence linking hot flashes to future health risks, doctors may need to assess a patient’s cardiovascular risk based on their experiences with hot flashes. Faubion recommends implementing lifestyle changes such as getting better sleep, following a proper diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress, staying socially connected, and engaging in activities that stimulate the brain for heart and brain health.
As heart disease is the leading cause of death for women worldwide, it is crucial to pay attention to the potential impact of menopause symptoms on future health.
In conclusion, menopause and its associated symptoms may have far-reaching effects on women’s health, emphasizing the need for further research and attention to this transitional phase of life.