Vasomotor symptoms (VMS), or hot flashes and night sweats, are often considered the cardinal symptoms of menopause. It is estimated that up to 80% of women experience symptoms related to declining estrogen levels that occur with menopause. The most common bothersome symptoms reported by women during and after this transition are vasomotor symptoms, which can include hot flashes, flushing, night sweats, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms are the most common reason women seek care during menopause. Until recently, the mainstay of treatment and symptom relief has been estrogen supplementation. When they happen at night, hot flashes are called night sweats.
Hot flashes: The sudden sensation of heat that affects the chest, neck, and face.
Night sweating: A woman may wake up and experience extreme episodes of sweating, where her clothes and sometimes sheets are drenched.
Vasomotor conditions can cause a woman to experience anxiety and heart palpitations, as well.