The hormone estrogen has a regulatory role in arterial structure and function. During the menopausal transition estrogen fluctuations, primarily diminished estrogen contributes to vasomotor symptoms: hot flashes.
While hot flashes are disruptive there is more serious reason to be concerned. According to a study noted in Menopause 2007, menopausal women with hot flashes tend to have elevated systolic blood pressure when compared to menopausal women who do not experience hot flashes. Elevated systolic blood pressure contributes to damaged, stiff arteries which increases cardiovascular risk. Torn damaged arteries stimulate a cascade of inflammatory cellular mediators which leads to arterial build-up an plaque.
The association between hot flashes and systolic blood pressure is independent of age, race/ethnicity, body mass index, and menopausal status. Hot flashes were not associated with changes in diastolic blood pressure.
Milled flaxseed, (calcium enriched & organic soy milk nice/nurturing) soy nuts, the supplement pycnogenol and soy based estrogen replacement (cream, gel or patch) are all options to help diminish hot flashes in menopausal and post menopausal women.
Source:
Hot flashes are associated with increased ambulatory systolic blood pressure.
Menopause. 2007; 14:308-315.
Gerber LM, et al.
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