Too Much Exercise May Trigger Hot Flashes in Menopausal Women: Study

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For women navigating menopause, the age-old question takes on new meaning: to exercise or not to exercise?

A new study reveals that excessive physical activity, particularly in warm conditions, could trigger a typical menopausal symptom—hot flashes.

The Exercise-Hot Flash Link

Hot flashes result from a hormonal imbalance during menopause, when dropping estradiol levels disrupt the hypothalamus’ ability to regulate body temperature. This manifests as a sudden, intense warmth spreading through the body and may be accompanied by sweating, flushed skin, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety. Over 80 percent of women experience these episodes during menopause. Their frequency and severity vary widely, with flashes lasting one to five minutes. Most women can expect to endure hot flashes for seven to 10 years.