Hey ms112233, you didn't mention how much Iodine you were taking at this time but when I started upping my dosage I too had very strong hot flashes. After I was finished with my high dosing and detox period, I slowly lowered the amount and now I am using a very small dosage. I still have hot flashes but not as often or as severe as when I was on higher amounts of iodine.
I was thinking, it may be if you are craving more salt during this time, it may be a factor. I took apple cider vinegar baths which seemed to help but basicly just endured until I was finished high dosing. Perhaps someone has a better theory. :)