Menopause and hot feet: why this phenomenon and how to alleviate it?

The hormonal upheaval that occurs during menopause can cause a variety of feelings and symptoms. Among the most common are night sweats, hot flashes, irritability, and sleep disturbances.

In addition to these symptoms, a lesser-known phenomenon may appear: hot feet.

Discover the causes of hot feet during menopause, and our natural solutions to regain optimal comfort.

Why can menopause cause hot feet?

There are several possible causes for the sensation of hot feet during menopause:

• Hormonal fluctuations: The hormonal changes that naturally occur during menopause have a significant impact on a woman's body. Specifically, it's the drop in estrogen and progesterone levels that can lead to issues like hot flashes and warm feet.

• Blood circulation: The onset of menopause can lead to circulation problems, particularly with the drop in estrogen. If blood circulation is reduced, the phenomenon of hot feet can develop.

Why do I feel heat in my feet?

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly the drop in estrogen, can cause a deficiency in serotonin, the neurotransmitter that regulates body temperature, thus influencing the body's thermoregulation and blood circulation. This triggers this feeling of excessive heat, which leads to several associated symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, excessive perspiration, and even hot feet.

Does menopause cause hot feet?

Hot feet is a little-known but real symptom of menopause. It is often the result of hot flashes, one of the most common symptoms during this time.

Hot flashes during menopause affect 70% of women. Lifestyle changes or natural solutions can alleviate them.

What other changes do feet go through during menopause?

In addition to the sensation of heat, the feet can be affected by various changes during menopause, such as swelling, dryness or even tingling.

Do feet change during menopause?

Frequent changes can occur in the feet during menopause.

They are largely caused by hormonal changes:

• Loss of skin elasticity: From menopause onward, the skin's collagen synthesis slows down, which affects its density. It becomes less firm and may reveal areas of dryness.

• Poor circulation: Blood circulation is also impacted by hormonal changes during menopause. Poor circulation can cause poor venous return and promote the phenomenon of "pole legs," a feeling of heavy and sometimes swollen legs that can be unpleasant. It is exacerbated by a lack of activity or prolonged periods of standing.

• Discomfort: Pain, swelling, and hot feet can cause increased discomfort in some shoes.

Does menopause make your feet hurt?

Foot pain is one of the pains associated with menopause. It is linked to several factors, such as changes in posture, muscle tension that impacts joints, and especially demineralization linked to the drop in hormones, which promotes osteoarticular pain.

Most women experience foot pain, often in the arch of the foot, with joint stiffness and a loss of flexibility. Dry skin and dry, cracked feet, especially in the heel area, can also cause pain and complications if infected.

How to naturally relieve hot feet during menopause?

There are natural solutions and tips to alleviate the symptoms of hot feet, reduce pain and regain comfort in everyday life.

What remedies for hot feet?

There are simple and accessible remedies to reduce hot feet during menopause:

• Cold foot baths: When you feel hot, soaking your feet in cold water for a few minutes can help your body regulate its temperature naturally. This will help alleviate the sensation of hot feet and so will hot flashes.

• Massage with natural oils: Peppermint or lemon eucalyptus essential oils have soothing and refreshing properties. Used in massage by adding a few drops to a vegetable oil (sweet almond, hazelnut, etc.), they offer an immediate sensation of freshness. Massage also helps boost blood circulation and reduce feelings of heavy legs or swelling.

• Wear socks made of breathable materials: To avoid overheating and excessive sweating in the feet, the material of the socks should not be overlooked. Natural fibers like cotton or bamboo are preferred, as they are breathable and lightweight.

How to avoid hot feet?

In addition to natural remedies and tips, preventive actions can be implemented on a daily basis to alleviate the sensation of hot feet during menopause:

• Hydration: It's important to drink enough throughout the day to stay hydrated. 1.5 to 2 liters per day is the ideal amount. If you usually drink tea or herbal teas, remember to control the water temperature to avoid hot flashes, which are exacerbated by drinks that are too hot.

• Balanced diet: Diet also plays a role in overall well-being and can help reduce menopausal symptoms. To avoid hot feet and heavy legs, focus on foods that promote cardiovascular health. Fruits and vegetables, rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, help strengthen blood vessels and naturally support blood circulation.

• Relaxation techniques: Gentle activities like yoga, walking, Pilates, and meditation naturally boost blood circulation. They are effective in combating stress and reducing the vasomotor symptoms of menopause, such as night sweats, hot feet, and hot flashes.

Hot flashes and hot feet: what to do after menopause?

Hot flashes and associated symptoms (redness, excessive sweating, palpitations, hot feet, etc.) can last for several years, from the beginning of menopause until the end. For some women, this phenomenon can last even longer and impact their daily lives.

To reduce hot flashes after menopause, adjustments can be made to improve daily life:

• Avoid triggers such as alcohol, spicy foods, very hot drinks or excessive caffeine, tight clothing and synthetic materials that promote sweating.

• Practice gentle physical activity such as yoga, walking, or meditation to reduce stress and the intensity of hot flashes.

• Establish habits to take care of your well-being and reduce feelings of heat: cold foot baths, massages with essential oils, wearing suitable clothing, etc.

Our advice: it is essential to understand the causes of hot flashes in order to treat them correctly and regain optimal comfort.

Conclusion

The sensation of hot feet during menopause is a natural phenomenon linked to the hormonal fluctuations that occur during this period. They can be reduced with natural solutions and lifestyle habits: massages with essential oils, cold foot baths, gentle activities, wearing suitable socks, etc.

Throughout the phases of menopause , problems can appear. These include hot flashes, mood swings, dry mucous membranes, joint pain, and night sweats. Herbal medicine is effective for experiencing a peaceful menopause and relieving symptoms.