Can Stress Make Hot Flashes Worse?
Stress is known to worsen Hot flashes by influencing the body’s autonomic nervous system, which plays a role in regulating temperature. Emotional stress and anxiety can trigger surges in stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which raise heart rate and affect blood vessel function. This heightened physiological state makes the body more reactive, amplifying the likelihood and intensity of hot flashes. Many people report that stressful events or periods of emotional strain coincide with more frequent or severe episodes.
Additionally, stress contributes to a cycle that makes hot flashes more disruptive. For example, stress-induced insomnia can reduce resilience and heighten sensitivity to temperature changes, increasing discomfort during hot flashes at night. Daytime stress may also exacerbate the emotional impact of hot flashes, making them feel more overwhelming. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and lifestyle adjustments aimed at reducing stress can play a valuable role in minimizing the frequency and severity of hot flashes over time.
