What should you know about reason for hot flashes?

A hot flash may begin with warmth in the face, neck or chest, followed by sweating, skin flushing and a cool feeling as the body loses heat. Changing oestrogen signals can narrow the temperature range that the brain treats as comfortable. Menopause and perimenopause are common settings for this change. Premature ovarian insufficiency can cause similar symptoms earlier in life. Alcohol, spicy food, warm rooms, stress, smoking and some medicines may trigger episodes, although triggers vary between people. New symptoms should not automatically be attributed to menopause.

Keep a brief diary of timing, possible triggers, sleep disruption and other symptoms. Dress in removable layers, use a fan, drink cool fluids and keep the bedroom comfortable. Regular movement, relaxation practice and stopping smoking may help some people. If symptoms interfere with sleep, work or daily life, discuss Hormone Replacement Therapy or Non-Hormonal Menopause Treatment. Choice depends on age, medical history, medicines, bleeding pattern and personal preferences.

Arrange a review when hot flashes are new, severe, worsening or accompanied by unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, palpitations or night sweats. Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, confusion or a new neurological symptom. Bleeding after menopause also requires medical assessment, even if hot flashes are present.

Do my symptoms fit perimenopause or menopause, or should another cause be checked? Could any medicine be triggering them? Which treatment suits my health history? How should unexpected bleeding be investigated?