Menopause Hot flashes

Menopause is the complete cessation of the menstrual cycle. Menopause occurs around the age of 40 to 59 and depends on hereditary factors. It is usually accompanied with hot flashes. Menopause hot flashes also occur in the peri-menopause phase, which is a transitional stage to menopause. Hot flashes come abruptly and last for 1-5 minutes. Their acuteness may range from slight warmth to a feeling of being on fire.

During hot flashes there is a wave-like sensation starting from the chest towards the head. Irritation becomes common, leading to some change in behavior. You may feel dizzy and stomach upset may also occur. Heartbeat becomes erratic and fast. The skin becomes reddish and blotchy on the face and sweating on the upper body occurs. Once the hot flashes subside, there can be a chilled feeling.

The hot flashes fluctuate in frequency. You can have many during the day or just a few during the entire week. You may perspire heavily or you may just feel a little warmer than usual. In some cases hot flashes last for 30 minutes while in some they subside within few minutes. The menopause hot flashes occurring during the night can be uncomfortable enough to wake you up from a sound sleep.

Menopause hot flashes usually begin during peri-menopause and peak during the initial years of menopause.