Unlocking the Menopausal Mind: The Surprising Science Behind Mood Swings and Mental Clarity at Midlife
During a hot flash or night sweat, norepinephrine and cortisol levels rise. Blood vessels dilate in an attempt to shed heat. Blood pressure and heart rate increase.
Depending on the severity of the hot flash, your skin might redden as sensations of warmth spread through your face, neck, and chest.
You might sweat, experience heart palpitations, or feel anxious, tired, or faint.4
It’s not entirely clear why hot flashes crop up around menopause.
According to one theory, falling estrogen levels affect the hypothalamus, the area of the brain involved in temperature regulation. The brain’s internal thermostat gets wonky and occasionally thinks your body is too hot or cold (when it’s not).
Post Comment