Hot flashes may be getting an unfair rap for disrupting women's sleep at midlife

Studies have often reported that sleep problems increase during the transition into menopause, reinforcing the idea that hot flashes are to blame. But even under controlled conditions in sleep laboratories, the connection between hot flashes and sleep disruption remains unclear, reports the February 2008 issue of Harvard Women's Health Watch.

A new study concludes that some of the sleep problems that women typically attribute to hot flashes may instead be caused by primary sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. The findings suggest that women may not be receiving appropriate treatment for their sleep difficulties. To determine the cause of poor sleep during the menopausal transition, researchers assessed the sleep of 102 women who reported having trouble sleeping. The researchers found that 53% had a primary sleep disorder. Among the entire group, 56% had measurable hot flashes.

This investigation is the first to examine menopausal sleep complaints using both objective and subjective measures. The study was small and may not be representative of all menopausal women with sleep complaints. However, the finding that half the women had primary sleep disorders, not just hot flashes, bears further investigation, notes the Harvard Women's Health Watch. Sleep problems are often assumed to result from hot flashes, but treating hot flashes isn't likely to resolve a serious underlying sleep disorder.

Also in this issue

• The status of statins
• Exercise and chronic lung disease
• Medications for burning mouth
• By the way, doctor: Is earwax buildup harmful? What are these small bumps on my arms and legs?

Harvard Women's Health Watch is available from Harvard Health Publications, the publishing division of Harvard Medical School, for $24 per year.