The Link Between Menopause Hot Flashes and Alzheimer's Risk

Hot flashes are a common symptom experienced by women during menopause, caused by changes in the hypothalamus that regulate body temperature. These episodes can last between one and five minutes and occur daily for most women, persisting for over seven years on average. Recent studies have found that intense hot flashes are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, heart attack, and heart failure. While menopause itself does not cause cardiovascular diseases, certain risk factors increase during this time. Lifestyle changes such as dressing in layers, avoiding spicy food and caffeine, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage hot flashes.