Dear Doctor, Is it normal to have hot flashes after having my gall bladder removed? I am 47, overweight, on a vivelle hormone patch for well over a year. I m 1 week and 1 day post gall bladder surgery. I m active, and everything seems to be working alright otherwise. I m delighted to not have a searing pain in my side anymore and have already begun taking stairs again and working out gently, as per my surgeon (no core work yet, gentle only, etc.) I have had a hysterectomy ( about 4 years ago) where they decided to take my appendix as well. I have one ovary left. I m eating carefully, avoiding fried or heavy foods, upped my fruit and vegetables, drinking lots of water. But I seem to be having hot flashes, despite the hormone patch. Should I give it another week before going back to my obgyn? Also, if this is normal, why does it happen? Thank you very much. L. Stewart (also, my email is not a joke, just so you know. Also, thank you again.)