How are hot flashes connected to cardiovascular risk?

Hot flashes are more than just an uncomfortable symptom of menopause—they are actually linked to increased cardiovascular risk. Here at Alloy, we work with leading experts like Dr. Jayne Morgan and Dr. Sharon Malone, who explain that the severity and frequency of hot flashes during menopause are correlated with a higher risk of heart disease.

Here's how they're connected:

As estrogen levels drop during menopause, women lose the heart-protective, anti-inflammatory effects of this hormone. This increases the risk of plaque buildup in arteries, leading to heart disease.
Hot flashes are a sign of these hormonal changes and, when severe or long-lasting, are considered an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Women who experience more intense or frequent hot flashes are more likely to develop heart disease later in life. This risk is even higher for Black women, who tend to have more severe and longer-lasting hot flashes.
Other menopause symptoms like insomnia and night sweats also contribute to cardiovascular risk, as poor sleep is directly linked to heart health.

It's important not to dismiss hot flashes as just a nuisance—they can be a signal of underlying changes that affect your long-term heart health. Addressing these symptoms, including considering Menopausal Hormone Treatment (MHT), can help improve quality of life and potentially reduce cardiovascular risk.

For a deeper dive, check out these resources:

Watch Dr. Jayne Morgan discuss the link between hot flashes and heart disease in this YouTube chapter: Hot Flashes, Quality of Life, and Racial Disparities.
Read our detailed article: Menopause, Hormones & How to Stay Heart-Healthy During Menopause.

If you're interested in learning about treatment options, including MHT, visit our Menopause Treatment Product Page.

At Alloy, we believe you deserve to feel your best and protect your heart health as you navigate menopause!

This answer was created using the following resources: