What is the difference between hot flushes and fever?
Hot flushes are short, sudden episodes of intense heat without a sustained rise in body temperature, while fever is a persistent elevation of core body temperature due to illness or infection.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Hot flushes are related to hormonal changes, especially around menopause, and do not involve a true fever. Body temperature returns to normal between flushes. Fever, in contrast, is a medical sign of underlying infection or inflammation and is usually accompanied by other symptoms like chills, aches, or fatigue. More at the NHS menopause symptoms and NHS fever in adults.
Clinical Context
Fever usually signals illness and needs medical attention if persistent. Hot flushes, while uncomfortable, are usually harmless and related to menopause.
Evidence-Based Approaches
NHS and NICE define hot flushes and fever as separate entities, each with distinct causes and management. NICE menopause guidance.