A groundbreaking study from Karolinska Institutet and Linköping University has uncovered a concerning link between severe hot flushes and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, this research sheds new light on a symptom many women have long struggled with in silence.
Here's what the study found:- 40% of women reporting severe, lasting hot flushes showed signs of atherosclerosis in their coronary arteries.
- This is compared to only 30% in women who reported no or mild hot flushes.
- Atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries is associated with a higher risk of heart attack.
The study involved 3,000 women aged 50 to 65, with one-sixth reporting current or previous severe hot flushes. Using advanced imaging techniques, researchers were able to directly examine the women's coronary arteries, providing concrete evidence of the link between hot flushes and heart health.
"Our findings support the hypothesis that there's an association between hot flushes and an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease," says Karin Leander, a docent of epidemiology at Karolinska Institutet. This corroborates previous research from the United States, strengthening the case for this connection.
So, what does this mean for you or the women in your life?
First and foremost, it's a call to action. If you're experiencing severe hot flushes, it's crucial to discuss this with your healthcare provider. As Leander notes, "It's important for this group of women to have access to preventative care."
But beyond seeking medical advice, there's an actionable step you can take right now to support your heart health: Consider magnesium supplementation.
Magnesium is a crucial mineral for heart health, yet many adults, especially seniors, are deficient. Here's why it matters:- Magnesium helps regulate heart rhythm.
- It supports healthy blood pressure levels.
- This mineral can help reduce inflammation, a key factor in heart disease.
- Some studies suggest magnesium may help reduce the frequency and severity of hot flushes.
While diet and exercise are always important, adding a magnesium supplement to your routine could provide additional support for both your heart health and menopausal symptoms.
As always, consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Remember, hot flushes aren't just an inconvenience to be endured. They could be your body's way of signaling a need for greater heart health attention.
To your heart health,
Rachel Mace
Managing Editorial Director, e-Alert
with contributions from the research team
Source:
Science X. (2024, September 3). Hot flushes are associated with cardiovascular risk: Study. Medicalxpress.com; Medical Xpress. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-09-hot-flushes-cardiovascular.html
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