How to manage menopausal hot flashes

Menopausal hot flashes are characterized by sudden episodes of body heat and sweating that occur in women around the time of menopause. These episodes are often accompanied by flushing, palpitations, headache, insomnia, and anxiety. This symptom is caused by a decline in estrogen levels, which leads to dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. Hot flashes may manifest as recurring, brief episodes of redness of the skin on the face, neck, and chest, accompanied by a sudden feeling of heat and sweating, with each episode typically lasting from 30 seconds to 2 minutes, although they may last longer in severe cases. The severity of symptoms varies among individuals; mild cases may occur 1–2 times daily, while severe cases may occur more than ten times or even more frequently, particularly at night or during periods of stress. These hot flashes may persist for 1–2 years, or even as long as 5 years or more, significantly affecting women's work and daily life.