I am 48 years old and I am still having normal periods About three times a year, I've noticed that I have a strange reddish sort of skin on my nose that spreads right across my cheeks and a little up my arms. It gets so hot that it feels like sunburn. Could this be menopause related or an allergy? I've used nothing different.

As your hormonal levels start to change on the approach to the menopause, your nervous system can get a bit stressed.

For some women just a little extra stress, such as being annoyed or upset, getting bad news, changing jobs, or other stressful activities can be enough to trigger a flush or heat surge.

If it happens again just be aware if something has stressed or upset you.

The menopause can also make your skin more sensitive to make-up, body creams, washing powders etc so that could also be a factor.

Check what skin creams you use and maybe switch to more natural ones as that may help.

Eileen Durward