What is the difference between hot flushes and hot flashes?
“Hot flushes” and “hot flashes” are the same symptom of menopause, but “flushes” is the British term and “flashes” is used in American English.
Detailed Medical Explanation
There is no medical difference between “hot flushes” and “hot flashes”—the terms describe the same phenomenon: a sudden feeling of heat, sweating, and reddening of the skin. “Hot flushes” is the terminology used in the UK, while “hot flashes” is the preferred term in the US and Canada. Both terms are used interchangeably in medical literature. See NHS Menopause Symptoms for more detail.
Clinical Context
Women may see both terms in online information or health resources. Healthcare professionals in the UK use “hot flushes” in patient literature and NHS guidance, while American literature will use “hot flashes.” Both describe the same symptom and treatment options are identical.
Evidence-Based Approaches
Treatment and advice are the same regardless of the terminology. Focus should remain on effective management and support, as described in NICE menopause guidance and NHS Menopause Resources.