A study published in Menopause in 2016 included 20 healthy women aged 40–60. Their hot flushes were measured for 24 hours with special sensors, their sleep was assessed over three nights, and their brains were examined with MRI. Women who had more hot flushes during sleep had more white matter changes, which are linked to the health of the brain’s small blood vessels.
What is important to know
The link held after accounting for age, body mass index, sleep characteristics and cardiovascular risk factors. However, the hot flushes the women reported themselves were not linked to the changes. The study is very small, so its results should be considered preliminary.
What this means for you
- Frequent hot flushes, especially at night, are a reason to talk to your doctor.
- Look after your heart and blood vessels: blood pressure, exercise, not smoking.
- Hot flushes can be treated, so you don’t have to just put up with them.
Sources
- Thurston R. C., Aizenstein H. J., Derby C. A., Sejdic E., Maki P. M. (2016). Menopausal hot flashes and white matter hyperintensities. Menopause, 23(1), 27–32. doi:10.1097/GME.0000000000000481