Pathophysiology and management of hot flashes

J Support Oncol. 2006 Jul-Aug;4(7):315-20, 325.

Abstract

Depending on their frequency and severity, hot flashes can be a major source of distress for individuals with cancer, particularly women with a history of breast cancer and men with prostate cancer. Characterized by increased skin temperature, skin conductance, and heart rate, hot flashes are associated with somatic, behavioral, and emotional manifestations. In this article, the authors review the prevailing theories on the pathophysiology of hot flashes and assess the major treatment interventions, such as hormonal agents, nonhormonal pharmacotherapy (including antidepressants), and complementary/alternative medicine options.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Breast Neoplasms / chemically induced
  • Breast Neoplasms / therapy
  • Complementary Therapies / adverse effects
  • Complementary Therapies / methods
  • Female
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy / adverse effects
  • Hot Flashes / etiology
  • Hot Flashes / physiopathology
  • Hot Flashes / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Progestins / therapeutic use
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / therapy

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Progestins