The first experience most women have at the onset of menopause is a hot flash symptom. While the downside of menopause may be hot flashes, the upside is the last menstrual cycles that a woman will ever have to deal with. Menopause also signals the end of the reproductive years.

The average age that a woman tends to experience menopause is around 50, but some experience their first hot flash symptom as early as 40 years old. Other women do not suffer the effects of a hot flash until they are 60+. Since the range of women affected by this process in life varies, not all females will experience the same intensity or longevity of their symptoms. Some will have to deal with stronger effects of menopause, while others breeze right through with minimal hot flash symptoms.

While the hot flash symptom is one of the most recognized in regards to menopause, there are plenty of other signs that affect a woman’s comfort. Joints may ache. Extreme sweating, night sweats, mood changes, frequent urination, headaches and insomnia are additional obstacles a woman faces as her reproductive years slowly come to an end. 
  
What Causes a Hot Flash Symptom?

Throughout the stage of menopause, various hormonal changes occur in a woman’s body. This is the main cause of a hot flash symptom. Decreased estrogen levels cause hormonal imbalances that affect body temperature. While hormones are the main reason that estrogen levels rise and fall, other causes, such as lifestyle and medications, have been known to create a hot flash symptom or two.

Treating a Hot Flash Symptom

While there are numerous ways to treat a hot flash symptom, you should know that nonprescription treatments are often the best course for most women. These days, most women are rightly concerned with studies showing higher incidence of breast cancer and strokes for those who use hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Herbal remedies, including black cohosh and evening primrose oil, are used successfully by many women and are readily available. You may also consider adding a Vitamin B complex, Vitamin E, and baby aspirin tablet to your regular routine.

Above all, no matter what your symptoms, keep in mind that menopause is a very normal part of life. Every woman goes through it without fail. You will get through it, too!

Tags: menopause, hot flashes, hot flash remedies, hot flashe symptoms