I am 72 and having many hot flushes per day. I was on HRT patches since my mid fifties and have been off them now for about nine months. Since then I have had severe hot flushes. I have also been anaemic owing to bleeding gastric ulcers, however blood count is ok now.

Unfortunately, coming off HRT, especially if it is done quickly, can trigger withdrawal symptoms that can mimic menopausal ones and it can be a miserable time until the body re-balances itself.

I would suggest a female multivit with high levels of B Vits and a separate magnesium supplement to help with supporting your system generally.

Acupuncture can be really effective for balancing whilst coming off HRT so it is worth looking into.

Avoid foods that can stress the nervous system such as caffeine, high salt and sugar foods, processed foods and try to drink plenty of plain water daily.

Daily relaxation is really important for this as it helps to strengthen the nervous system and the stronger this is the less likely you are to get symptoms.

In the meantime you may find sage helpful for the flushes.

Eileen Durward