Hot flushes during the menopause

Nobody likes hot flushes. They happen without warning, your skin reddens, as if you're blushing, and you break out in a sweat – a tell tale sign of the menopause. Some women experience them only briefly, while others are tormented by them for years, often at night. But what is their root cause, and what can be done about them?

Hot flushes are one of the most common symptoms of the menopause. They are caused by hormonal changes that affect the body's temperature control system. But how exactly do they occur, what types are there and what can be done about them?

The exact cause is still not fully understood, but the hypothalamus – our internal thermostat – plays a pivotal role. During the menopause, hormonal balance undergoes a drastic change. The body tries to compensate for the falling oestrogen levels by increasing the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The problem: The ovaries can no longer respond like they once did. At the same time, this over-activity of the hormonal system affects the body's temperature control system – and voilà! Here comes the flush.

Hot flushes take different forms. While the classic hot flush is short but intense, there are ember flushes, which are milder but last longer. Night sweats are particularly troublesome, as they are triggered by abrupt hormonal fluctuations and severely disrupt sleep. 

Many women hope that they will "just get through it" and that it will eventually pass. But here's the truth: Hot flushes are just one symptom of a widespread hormone deficiency. If they disappear after years, it does not mean that the body has recovered. Rather, the receptors on the organs have adapted to the hormone deficiency – but the oestrogen deficiency leaves its mark. Possible osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, memory problems and joint pain are just some of the possible long-term consequences.

Here's the good news: Nobody has to simply endure hot flushes. There are various ways to treat them:

• Natural methods: Herbal supplements such as black cohosh or soya isoflavones can help.

• Lifestyle adjustments: Regular exercise, a healthy diet and relaxation techniques such as yoga can reduce the intensity of hot flushes.

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): This medical treatment can specifically balance hormone levels, but should be discussed with a doctor.

Hot flushes are a common symptom of the menopause and can have a significant impact on your well-being. But there are several ways to alleviate them. The most important step is to take your own body seriously and actively look for solutions. The menopause is not over in a matter of months, it can take years – and the hormone deficiency affects far more than just the temperature.