Knowra Hot flash Hot flash A sudden episode of intense warmth, often accompanied by sweating, flushing, or chills. Hot flashes commonly occur during the menopausal transition when the brain’s temperature regulation becomes unusually sensitive.
Thermoregulation : The processes organisms use to keep body temperature within a functional range. Hot flashes arise when the temperature-control system triggers heat loss too readily.
Menopausal hormone therapy : Treatment using hormones to relieve symptoms associated with menopause. Estrogen-based therapy is an effective option for troublesome menopausal hot flashes when appropriate.
Menopause : The permanent end of menstruation, identified retrospectively after twelve consecutive months without a menstrual period. Hot flashes are among the most common symptoms associated with the transition to menopause.
KNDy neurons : Hypothalamic neurons that coexpress kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin and help regulate reproductive hormone signaling. Their role in temperature regulation has led to targeted treatments for menopausal hot flashes.
Sleep : A recurring state of reduced responsiveness and altered brain activity that supports physical and mental functioning. Nighttime episodes can fragment sleep and compound daytime fatigue.
Hypothalamus : A brain region that regulates functions including temperature, hunger, and hormone release. Its temperature-regulating circuits are implicated in the narrowed comfort range associated with hot flashes.
Fezolinetant : A nonhormonal medicine that blocks neurokinin 3 receptors to reduce moderate-to-severe menopausal vasomotor symptoms. It targets a temperature-regulation pathway without supplying estrogen.
Perimenopause : The transition leading to menopause, marked by changing menstrual patterns and hormone levels. Hot flashes often begin during this transition, before menstruation has permanently stopped.
Neurokinin B : A signaling peptide that binds neurokinin receptors and participates in several nervous-system functions. Its signaling is implicated in the neural pathways underlying menopausal hot flashes.
Quality of life : A person’s overall assessment of physical, psychological, and social well-being. Frequent or severe episodes can affect comfort, concentration, and daily activities.
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