My mother is 65 and suddenly has hot flashes and intense sweating attacks. What should we do and which department should we go to?

If any of the following occur, go to the emergency department without delay or call emergency services: chest pain, marked shortness of breath, fainting or altered consciousness, rapidly worsening condition, or very high fever.

• Chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing or severe shortness of breath
• Fainting, sudden dizziness or change in consciousness
• Very high fever or rapidly worsening condition

Do not wait if emergency signs are present; rapid assessment can be life‑saving.

A Family Medicine or Internal Medicine physician is the appropriate first contact. Depending on findings, they may refer to:

• Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases (for thyroid or hormonal evaluation)
• Cardiology (if palpitations, arrhythmia signs or ECG abnormalities)
• Mental Health and Illnesses (if anxiety or panic is suspected or medication management is needed)

The final referral depends on the initial clinical assessment.

These measures do not replace medical care but may improve comfort and help gather useful information before the visit:

• If possible during an attack, record temperature, pulse and blood pressure
• Ensure adequate fluid intake
• Keep the person cool, dress in light clothing and avoid hot environments
• Reduce very frequent hot showers; lukewarm showers and moisturizing may be more comfortable
• Keep a symptom diary noting time, duration, accompanying signs and possible triggers

If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical evaluation.

Sharing these details with the clinician helps the assessment. Possible tests the doctor may request include:

• Measurements taken during or near attacks: temperature, pulse, blood pressure
• List of all medications (prescription, over‑the‑counter, herbal)
• Symptom diary: frequency, duration, timing and triggers of attacks
• Possible tests: thyroid function (TSH, free T4), blood glucose/HbA1c, complete blood count, electrolytes, basic liver and kidney tests, urinalysis, ECG; further testing (e.g., Holter) or specialist referral as indicated

The clinician will tailor tests and referrals to the individual case.