UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING HOT FLASHES IN MEN: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

WHAT CAUSES HOT FLASHES IN MEN?

 

Hot flashes (sometimes referred to as “hot flushes”) in men aren’t associated with changing hormone levels that result from aging, as they are for women in menopause. The most common cause of hot flashes in men is androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a type of prostate cancer treatment that works by decreasing testosterone levels.

 

Men receiving ADT experience hot flashes with varying intensity and frequency. Some men experience hot flashes once in a while, while others may experience them several times a day. When hot flashes are intense or frequent, they can significantly impact a person’s well-being.

 

SYMPTOMS OF HOT FLASHES IN MEN

 

Each person experiences hot flashes a little differently, but the main symptoms include:

 

– A sudden feeling of warmth in the body, which can be intense

– Sweating and flushed skin, especially on the face and torso

– Night sweats

– Increased heart rate

– Feelings of anxiety

 

Symptoms of hot flashes usually pass within a few minutes but can last up to 20 minutes.

 

POSSIBLE CAUSES BEYOND ADT

 

Although most hot flashes are caused by ADT, other possible causes in men include surgeries that remove the testicles, gonadotropin-releasing hormone therapy, estrogen therapy, treatments with opioids, use of tricyclic antidepressants, and steroid use.

 

OTHER SIDE EFFECTS OF ADT

 

Besides hot flashes, people receiving ADT as part of their prostate cancer treatment may experience other side effects, including lowered sex drive, cholesterol changes, memory issues, breast growth, increased diabetes risk, erectile dysfunction, and signs of osteoporosis.

 

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR HOT FLASHES IN MEN

 

Although hot flashes can be challenging to live with, the good news is most men see a resolution of their symptoms soon after stopping androgen deprivation therapy. Still, there are treatment options available for managing male hot flashes, including:

 

– Estrogen Therapy: Although not FDA-approved for this use, estrogen replacement therapy has shown to be highly effective in reducing hot flashes in men.

  

– Progesterone Therapy: Progesterone therapy has also been effective in reducing hot flash symptoms in men, although it may increase prostate cancer growth.

  

– Gabapentin and Pregabalin: These medications, typically used for seizures, have been shown to be effective in managing hot flashes in men with few side effects.

  

– Antidepressants: SSRIs like venlafaxine, desvenlafaxine, and citalopram have shown promise in reducing hot flash symptoms.

  

– Stress Reduction and Therapy: Stress and anxiety reduction techniques such as mindfulness meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and hypnosis can help manage hot flashes.

  

–  At-Home Comfort Measures: Wearing loose, breathable clothing, keeping the environment cool, staying hydrated, and using cold, damp cloths can help alleviate hot flash symptoms.

 

CONSULTING WITH HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS

 

Always consult with your healthcare provider or oncologist before starting any treatment for hot flashes. Alternative therapies like herbal supplements and vitamins should also be discussed with your medical team.

 

CONCLUSION

 

If you are experiencing hot flashes, know that you are not alone, and there are treatment options available to help you manage your symptoms. By working closely with your healthcare provider, you can find a treatment plan that suits your needs and improves your quality of life.

 

DISCLAIMER

 

If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

 

SOURCES:

 

1. National Cancer Institute. (2020). Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer. https://www.cancer.gov/types/prostate/prostate-hormone-therapy-fact-sheet
2. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Androgen Deprivation Therapy for Prostate Cancer. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/androgen-deprivation-therapy/about/pac-20384915
3. American Cancer Society. (2022). Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/treating/hormone-therapy.html
4. Urology Care Foundation. (2022). What are the Side Effects of Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) for Prostate Cancer? https://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/prostate-cancer/hormone-therapy-for-prostate-cancer/side-effects
5. Mayo Clinic. (2022). Hot Flashes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hot-flashes/symptoms-causes/syc-20352790