Hot Flushes
What does a hot flush feel like?
Hot flushes are often described as a sudden feeling of heat which seems to come from nowhere, but often start in the lower body and spread upwards; lasting for several minutes. Some describe it as ‘filling up like a radiator’, and feeling like you are ‘glowing like hot coals’. They can vary in severity from person to person but are likely to include sweating, palpitations, and a red flush, like blushing.
How often do they occur? & How long do they go on for?
Some women only have occasional hot flushes which don’t really bother them at all, while others report numerous hot flushes in a day, and describe them as uncomfortable, disruptive, and often highly embarrassing.
Hot flushes usually continue for several years after your last period, but they can carry on for decades. It is thought that the hormone changes that occur during the menopause affect the body’s ability to control temperature.
Hot Flush Triggers
Hot flushes can happen without warning at any time of the day and night. However, some well-known triggers include: Warm clothing e.g. Woollen jumpers, Stress/ Anxiety, Alcohol, Tea/Coffee, and Spicy Foods. Many women learn to live and cope with menopause-related hot flushes. But, there are natural based products that can be taken that can help provide support through life stages, such as Estroplus. However, if the symptoms are significantly interfering with quality of life, women are advised to visit the Doctor or Pharmacist for further advice. Do let your Pharmacist or Doctor know if you are taking any other products.
Should I be worried about hot flushes?
Hot flushes are generally a harmless symptom associated with the menopause. If your hot flushes are accompanied by other symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, weight loss or diarrhoea, then you are advised to contact your Doctor.
