Hot Flashes
What’s Really Happening in Your Body
Hot flashes are caused by shifting hormones, especially estrogen.
As estrogen levels decline, brain’s temperature control system- hypothalamus-becomes sensitive.
Physiology in Simple Terms:
- Estrogen drops → This confuses brain’s thermostat.
- Hypothalamus thinks body is too hot (even if it’s not).
- It triggers a “cooling response”:
- Blood vessels near skin dilate to release heat — this causes redness and flushing.
- Heart may beat faster.
- Sweat glands switch on — sometimes intensely.
Why It Happens Repeatedly:
Hypothalamus / the body's thermostat stays jumpy due to low estrogen, stress, or other hormone imbalances (like high FSH or low progesterone).
Even small temperature changes or emotional stress can trigger a flash.
What Makes Hot Flashes Worse?
- Caffeine and alcohol
- Stress or anxiety
- Spicy foods
- Poor sleep or irregular blood sugar
- Tight clothing or hot environments
What Can Help?
- Bioidentical hormone therapy (estrogen + progesterone, testosterone)
- Magnesium, Vitamin D, B vitamins, adaptogens (like ashwagandha)
- Cooling sheets, fans
- Deep breathing or meditation to calm the nervous system
