A hot flash is a sudden feeling of warmth that is often most intense in the face, neck, and chest. They can be accompanied by sweating, flushing, and sometimes a rapid heartbeat. Hot flashes may last only seconds or minutes but can occur multiple times a day and even at night, disrupting sleep and quality of life.
They are most commonly linked to hormonal changes during menopause and perimenopause, though frequency and severity can vary widely among women.
Sudden waves of heat in the upper body
Flushing of the face, neck, or chest
Increased sweating
Chills or shivering after the hot flash
Sleep disturbance from nighttime episodes
Fatigue and irritability due to interrupted rest
While hot flashes are normal, many women seek support when symptoms become disruptive to daily living.
Estrogen and progesterone play a key role in regulating body temperature. As levels decline during menopause and perimenopause, this regulation can become less stable, leading to hot flashes.
At InnerMD, we evaluate whether hormone therapy may be an appropriate option to help reduce the severity or frequency of hot flashes. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual and based on a careful review of health history, symptoms, and, when appropriate, lab testing.
We use a step-by-step process to provide safe and personalized care:
Intake Form – Begin with our secure online patient intake.
Virtual Consultation – Meet with Dr. Johnston to review symptoms and overall health history.
Lab Testing (If Needed) – Ordered to assess hormone levels if this will add helpful context.
Individualized Treatment Plan – May include menopause hormone therapy, personalized hormone care, or other evidence-based recommendations.
Ongoing Follow-Up – Follow-ups every 3–6 months until stable, then annually.
Meet Dr. Jennifer Johnston
Dr. Jennifer Johnston is a practicing family physician from the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia.
She completed her medical training at Dalhousie University and later became board certified in Lifestyle Medicine by the ACLM, she specializes in bioidentical hormone therapy for men and women.
By using the latest research, she aims to harness the body’s natural ability to heal. She is dedicated to giving patients the tools and treatments needed to restore and repair the body for optimal health and vitality.
We specialize in addressing hormone-related symptoms such as hot flashes with evidence-based treatment such as menopause hormone therapy (MHT).
Every care plan is designed specifically around your symptoms, health history, and goals.
Whether you are in Halifax, Cape Breton, the Annapolis Valley, Digby, or Truro, you can access expert care from home.
We listen, understand, and support you with care that prioritizes your comfort and long-term health.
No matter where you are, you can receive hormone therapy for hot flashes through secure, virtual consultations, including Halifax, Cape Breton, Annapolis Valley, Digby, Truro, and more across Atlantic Canada, including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador and Prince Edward Island
Not always. While menopause and perimenopause are the most common causes, other health factors may contribute. A consultation helps determine the likely cause.
Hormone therapy can play a role for some women, but whether it is appropriate depends on individual health factors. Treatment decisions are always personalized.
For many women, hot flashes gradually decrease over time, but the duration and severity vary. Care may help improve quality of life during this stage.
Lab work is sometimes recommended but not always necessary. This will be discussed during your consultation.
Yes. We provide virtual care for patients across Nova Scotia, including Cape Breton, the Annapolis Valley, Digby, and Truro.
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