Researchers have found that nighttime hot flashes and discomfort in women may not only be a sign of hormonal changes but also an early signal of a neurodegenerative disease. Frequent episodes at night may indicate an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and require careful examination.
A study by the University of Pittsburgh included 250 middle-aged women, whose nighttime hot flashes were monitored using skin conductance sensors. It was found that the more frequently sensations of heat and discomfort occur during sleep, the higher the likelihood of future cognitive decline.
Experts advise women experiencing such symptoms to discuss the situation with a gynecologist. If hormonal changes are ruled out, a comprehensive examination by a therapist, endocrinologist, and neurologist is recommended.
