The possibilities include:

1) It is hot in your location. Keep in mind the popular song by Nelly: “It’s getting hot in here, so take off all your clothes.” No, don’t doff your garments. But consider that it may indeed be too hot in the room. Body heat from crowds, thermostats set too high, proximity to kitchens with open concepts and blazing ovens, or maybe a nearby heater or outlet can all cause a higher body temperature. Ask your companions or those nearby if they are warm before jumping to conclusions.

2) The food you eat may be at work. It’s well known that the body reacts to the fuel you put in it. If the food is drenched in hot sauce or is unusually warm, it can raise the body temperature. It’s why frozen margaritas are popular at Mexican restaurants. A large meal and the digestion process also can turn up the internal furnace as the body attempts to deal with the large amount of energy consumed.

3) Medications -- Most medications have side effects, and in some cases, they may raise the body temperature as they are metabolized. Particularly if you are taking a prescription medicine, think back on what you’ve consumed and don’t discount that the hot flash is a body reaction to medication.

4) Stress -- If you're bogged down with a work project or have rocky relationship issues, stress hormones may be released, raising the body temperature and mimicking a hot flash.

5) Infections and medical conditions -- Inflammation in the body can raise localized temperatures in a manner resembling a hot flash. Similarly, there are endocrine tumors that can cause the body thermostat to go haywire. These issues require a professional medical opinion and a blood test to determine whether either activity is in play.