Hot Flashes in Women 60+ years

Hot flashes are the most common vasomotor symptom of perimenopause and early postmenopause - experienced by 75-80% of women. The sudden sensation of heat in face, neck, and chest lasts 1-5 minutes, often with sweating and reddening. For Malaysian women, tropical climate can significantly raise severity. At 60+, most vasomotor symptoms ease although some women still experience them. Long-term risks are the priority: osteoporosis, breast cancer, heart, dementia. genitourinary syndrome of menopause needs active treatment as it tends to worsen. Starting systemic hormone therapy after 60 is usually more cautious; local vaginal estrogen may still be discussed with a clinician. Hot flashes at 60+ are rarely severe, but 25% of women still experience them. For new onset, other factors (thyroid, certain medications) need consideration. non-hormonal prescription options may be discussed instead of starting systemic hormone therapy at this age.