What Causes Elevated BP And Dizziness Post Menopause?

I am 53 year old smoker on menopause and have been having severe hoflashes at night for years. Since I stopped my period 2 months ago the hot flashes are all day and with them I am usually very dizzy. I just saw the DR. and my blood pressue was high 143/88 which is odd because it has always been 100/60. What could be causing the flashes and light headedness?