Hot flashes are a common symptom experienced by many women during menopause. Recent studies have seen a surprising connection to a higher risk of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). In this article, we will explore the link between hot flashes and MASLD and key facts that you need to know for better health outcomes. Visit The Healthcare Insights for more health-related topics.
What Are Hot Flashes?
Hot flashes are sudden, intense feelings of heat or warmth over the upper body parts like the face, neck, and chest. It can cause sweating, and rapid heartbeat often occurs at night, disrupting sleep. Hot flashes are primarily associated with the hormonal changes that occur during menopause, but they can also be influenced by lifestyle factors and overall health.
Hot flashes affect a significant proportion of women during menopause. They can begin years before menopause and last for several years after the last menstrual period. They also cause physical discomfort and impact the quality of life, sleep patterns, and emotional well-being of a person.
What is MASLD?
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) also known as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is a severe form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). MASLD is a liver inflammation and damage due to fat accumulation in the liver. It is associated with metabolic risk factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.
MASLD is often asymptomatic in its early stages which makes it difficult to diagnose without specific medical tests. The symptoms if seen may include fatigue, abdominal pain, and signs of liver dysfunction. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes liver biopsy to assess liver inflammation and fibrosis.
Link Between Hot Flashes and MASLD
Hormonal Factors: The hormonal changes during menopause, cause a decrease in estrogen levels, and are believed to play a role in both hot flashes and the development of MASLD. Estrogen has protective effects on liver metabolism, and its reduction can lead to increased fat accumulation in the liver and a higher risk of metabolic disorders.
Metabolic Health: Women experiencing frequent and severe hot flashes may have underlying metabolic issues, such as insulin resistance and central obesity, which are also risk factors for MASLD.
Inflammation and Stress: Both hot flashes and MASLD are connected with increased inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Chronic inflammation can cause liver damage in MASLD and may also contribute to the frequency and severity of hot flashes.
Case Study
Researchers observed data on 106 women divided into two groups. The first group was women who were in perimenopause, a phase before menopause characterized by irregular periods and symptoms like hot flashes. The second group was postmenopausal women, meaning they hadn’t had a period for a year or longer. Many participants had either mild or no hot flashes, but 42 people reported moderate to severe hot flashes.
Scientists used two different methods to check if participants had MASLD. First, they used a tool to predict how much fat was in the liver. Second, they counted each person’s risk factors for MASLD, like being overweight, having extra belly fat, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, or high cholesterol.
According to study results shared at ENDO 2024, women who had moderate or severe hot flashes were about three times more likely to show signs of MASLD. Additionally, within five years after menopause, those with moderate to severe hot flashes faced around nine times higher risk of developing MASLD.
Conclusion
To conclude, hot flashes may be more than just an uncomfortable symptom of menopause. They could be a sign of a higher risk for MASLD. The study also finds the outcomes of how women with hot flashes are likely to show signs of MASLD. Monitoring your health, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical advice will help you manage hot flashes and reduce your risk of developing MASLD.