Hot flashes are the worst. Night sweats, too.
I had to take hormones for them because I was unable to function at work or elsewhere!! When you get a hot flash it seems that you cna't think straight for the lenght of the hot flash.
I fought taking HRT but finally I just gave in. I also had discomfort during intercourse and the hormones definitely help with that. There are differing opinions on whether HRT helps
prevent ALZ and then some sites say it
contributes to dementia. It's so confusing.
I also gained 20 lbs in 6 years. My doc said estrogen has nothing to do with it but most women I know who take HRT gain at least 5 or ten lbs.
if you are 40+ you are definitely in the age bracket for peri menopause which can go for a long time in some women. Usually the peri menopause starts around 48-50.
I recently got off HRT after 6 years and I am still having the occassional hot flash. I am 58. i feel fine and am losing weight gradually.