I used to get hot flushes regularly but they deteriorated when I was about 54 years old. However, 18 months ago they returned and these hot flushes are much worse than any I've ever had before. They only seem to occur when I need to pee or sometimes when I need to open my bowels. I'll always get them I lie down and sometimes after I've been to the toilet. I have been on the internet and it seems to be a reported problem by other women, but one that is not taken seriously by doctors. Can you help me?

Hot flushes can be caused by a variety of factors in the menopause, such as hormonal changes, stress and anxiety, dehydration, diet, and digestive problems.

In your situation I would recommend doing a detox to help cleanse your whole system. Make sure that you are drinking plenty of water and, in order to make sure that you are, measure how much.

You are aiming for at least 1.5-2 litres a day, and avoid caffeine such as tea, coffee, and fizzy drinks as these can all trigger flushes!

Cut out sugar and sugary foods as well as this can weaken your whole system and trigger flushes too. Also cut out all processed foods, such as white bread/pasta, and rice.

You may find that this diet will make things worse to start with but you should see an improvement after this. You may also find cranial osteopathy helpful, as neck and shoulder problems can affect the nerves in the abdominal area causing symptoms as well.

If this seems a bit daunting to do on your own, I would suggest seeking the advice of a Nutritional Therapist. They can formulate a plan for you with added support. You can find a local practitioner through www.BANT.org.uk

In the meantime, you may find sage tincture taken 3 times a day helps to reduce the flushes.

Eileen Durward