Hot flashes are one of the most common symptoms experienced by women around the time of menopause. In fact, approximately half of all perimenopausal women and 75 to 85% of all postmenopausal women experience hot flashes. While the onset, duration, frequency, and severity of hot flashes varies greatly between women, hot flashes often begin one or two years before a woman's last period and can last anywhere from six months to fifteen years. The following are the most common signs and symptoms of hot flashes:

1. Sudden, intense feelings of heat. In the face, neck, arms, torso, and sometimes the whole body.

2. Rapid or irregular heartbeat and pulse. Including heart palpitations.

3. Flushing or reddened face and neck, particularly in lighter skinned women.

4. Perspiration. Ranging from mild to profuse.

5. Cold chills. Often follow hot flashes, though sometimes women only experience the chill.

6. Sleep disturbances. They occur at night, and are also known as night sweats. Estrogen levels are often lowest at night, which is why women often experience nocturnal hot flashes.

7. Other symptoms. Nausea, dizziness, anxiety, and headaches.