Do you wonder how your hot flash symptoms compare with other women? They are typically classified as mild, moderate or severe, and thus far, researchers don't know why some women have only mild symptoms while others experience frequent, severe hot flashes. 

Mild: Few hot flashes but they do not interfere with your daily activities (around 1-3 per day, mild, brief, minimal discomfort and sweating)

Moderate: You definitely have hot flashes, and they interfere with daily activities somewhat (4-10 per day or longer lasting, moderately uncomfortable with sweating and flushing of the skin)

Severe: You probably guessed...you have frequent hot flashes that disrupt your life to the point of needing to stop what your doing (11 or more per day, frequently hot, hot all day, frequent flushed, red skin with increased sweating)

The frequency and severity of hot flashes can be hereditary, cultural, or come as part of another medical condition. Always talk with your health care provider about any symptoms you are experiencing.

Some lifestyle changes may help. These include managing stress, losing weight if you are overweight, and stopping smoking. Most women feel better by eating a healthier, more balanced diet and starting or maintaining an exercise program.

Did you know?

Things that make hot flashes worse: