Ever Heard of Vasomotor Symptoms Due To Menopause? Here's The Science Behind These Disruptive Symptoms
For many women Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) due to menopause commonly referred to as hot flashes and night sweats are scientifically defined occurrences. These symptoms involve sudden and intense sensations of heat in the upper body often accompanied by sweating skin reddening chills and a rapid heartbeat. Approximately half of women may encounter moderate to severe VMS due to menopause impacting various aspects of their lives including sleep work and personal relationships. VMS severity can vary: - Mild: Sensation of heat without sweating. - Moderate: Sensation of heat with sweating allowing continued activity. - Severe: Sensation of heat with sweating leading to cessation of activity. The physiological basis of VMS involves more than just the decline in estrogen associated with aging. The hypothalamus acting as the body's internal thermostat contains KNDy neurons crucial for temperature regulation. These neurons are influenced by the balance between estrogen and neurokinin B (NKB) a brain chemical. During menopause The duration of VMS varies among women with no guaranteed timeframe. Studies indicate that Black women experience VMS for a median of 10.1 years Hispanic women for 8.9 years white women for 6.5 years and Japanese and Chinese women for 4.8 and 5.4 years respectively. While many women may hesitate to seek help for menopausal symptoms effective treatments exist to alleviate the severity and frequency of VMS. VEOZAH® (fezolinetant) is a hormone-free treatment designed for moderate to severe VMS due to menopause. It works within the hypothalamus specifically blocking NKB binding providing relief from hot flashes and night sweats. VEOZAH has demonstrated efficacy in reducing the number and severity of these symptoms based on clinical studies. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for personalized guidance on treatment options. Understanding the science behind menopausal symptoms enables more meaningful conversations with healthcare professionals. Embracing the menopause transition as a natural part of womanhood rather than fast-forwarding through it fosters a healthier perspective.