The Hot Flash Roast

Imagine you’re sitting at the Thanksgiving table, feeling fine, when suddenly—BAM! You’re flushed, like you just spilled gravy on your favorite blouse. You’re not embarrassed, nervous, or upset. Nope, this is the infamous hot flash, and it’s just getting started.

The warmth builds ominously, like your oven preheating to 500°F, until your face lights up like a human lava lamp! Sometimes it’s quick and gone before the turkey cools, but other times, it pulls up a chair and stays awhile, making you the hottest thing at the table—and not in a fun way.

Some of us experience these hot flashes all over, from head to toe, while others just get them in the upper or lower body. And if you’re really lucky, they’ll stop by frequently—like that one relative who always overstays their welcome.

Night Sweats: The Turkey Leftovers of Hot Flashes

And then there are night sweats—hot flashes’ sneaky alter-ego. You think you’re in for a nice, peaceful night, only to wake up in what can only be described as your own personal waterbed. That’s right, the sheets are soaked, and you’re wondering how many towels it’ll take to dry out your bed.

Pro tip: keep an extra pair of PJs near the bed, because nothing says “Happy Thanksgiving” like a 2 a.m. wardrobe change!

Why Are We All Sweating Like We’re in Hot Yoga?

Believe it or not, this whole hot flash/night sweat situation has to do with estrogen (or lack thereof) and your brain’s thermostat—the hypothalamus. When estrogen levels dip, your brain gets the wrong memo and thinks you’re overheating, which kicks your body into “sweat it out” mode. Hello, increased heart rate, swollen blood vessels, and hot yoga-level sweat without the savasana at the end!

The Heat’s Impact—Beyond Being Uncomfortable

Here’s the kicker, ladies: hot flashes and night sweats aren’t just about feeling like you’re in a sauna. They can mess with your sleep, your mood, and even your brain function. And if left untreated, they can stick around into postmenopause like leftovers that just won’t go away.

Plus, research shows they’re linked to more serious health issues, like cardiovascular disease, poor bone health, and elevated cortisol levels (hello, stress!). There’s also evidence that women who get both migraines and hot flashes may be at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke. Talk about unwanted holiday guests!

Don’t Let Hot Flashes Crash Your Thanksgiving

So, what’s the takeaway from this Thanksgiving hot flash fest? Make sure your menopause specialist knows exactly what symptoms you’re dealing with. If your hot flashes are showing up more often than pumpkin pie this season, it’s time to take action! Treatment is out there—whether it’s lifestyle changes, hormone therapy, or a mix of both.

This Thanksgiving, let’s be thankful for the fact that we don’t have to suffer in silence.  If you want to learn more about the latest options for dealing with these hot flashes:   After years of writing and speaking about menopause, I now offer an easy-to-understand, affordable online course so that women everywhere can easily access the information and resources they need to prepare for and master menopause. This course includes the easy-to-understand information I wish I’d had—covering all stages of menopause, from monitoring fertility during pre-menopause to perimenopause and how to lead a healthy life in postmenopause. I provide women the tools they need to thrive, not just survive.

Now, who’s ready to turn down the heat and enjoy the turkey?

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*EllenDolgen.com does not recommend, endorse, or make any representation about any tests, studies, practices, procedures, treatments, services, opinions, healthcare providers, physicians, or medical institutions that may be mentioned or referenced. The information, including opinions and recommendations, contained on this website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Such information is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other healthcare provider.