|
Menopause begins 12 months after your last menstrual period, in the U.S., the average age is 51. However, hormonal changes typically begin 4-7 years earlier. This period of change, called perimenopause, is associated with sweeping and fluctuating changes in hormone levels. Symptoms vary from person to person and include:
Irregular periods: This is usually the first sign. The frequency of your periods may become less predictable, and the flow may be heavy or light.
Hot flashes and night sweats: These are sudden feelings of heat, usually most intense over the face, neck and chest. They can cause you to sweat profusely. Some women have a rapid heart rate or chills as well. The actual mechanism behind hot flashes is not yet completely understood but is related to low estrogen levels causing sensitization of the hypothalamus. In response to warm temperatures, the overly sensitive hypothalamus may respond by inducing a hot flash to cause sweating in an attempt to ultimately cool the body.
Sleep problems: You might have insomnia or find yourself waking up more often during the night.
Mood changes: Hormonal changes can often lead to increased anxiety, irritability, or feelings of sadness.
Read the rest of the article on our website here.
| 
