Some of these symptoms may be due to other medical problems. Always consult with your physician. These may last from 3 to 5 minutes, usually returning to normal in about 30 minutes. As our body responds to less estrogen, the hypothalamus, our internal thermostat, starts fluctuating, producing a hot sensation around the face, neck and back that feels uncomfortably warm. Hot flashes or flushes may persist for more than a year and some women experience them for more that five years.
Frequency can range from several per day to one in six months.
Hot flashes can be triggered by an emotional upset, a hot meal, spicy food, alcohol intake and caffeine. By eating small meals several times a day and drinking lots of water, you can help regulate your body temperature. Most symptoms can be relieved by estrogen therapy if you chose this treatment. You can also help by wearing natural fibers and dress in layers. A positive outlook can help by remembering that hot flashes are normal and do not last very long.