New Delhi, Feb. 12 -- Hot flashes are usually linked to menopause, but they are not limited to women in their 40s or 50s. Some women notice sudden waves of heat, flushed skin, sweating, or even a racing heartbeat right before or during their period. If this sounds familiar, you're not imagining it. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can briefly affect the body's temperature control system. While it may feel uncomfortable, it is often a natural response to shifting estrogen levels. Understanding why this happens can make it less worrying and easier to manage. The key lies in how your hormones interact with your brain's internal thermostat.

What are hot flashes, and how do they feel?

Hot flashes are sudden, intense sensations of ...