Is It a Hot Flash or Something More? 5 Menopause Symptoms to Watch For

Perimenopause and menopause are natural stages of aging that most women experience. Perimenopause signals a normal decline in sex hormone production, while menopause occurs after a woman goes a full year without having a menstrual period. 

These are a normal part of the aging process, but they often come with side effects, such as hot flashes, mood changes, and brain fog. Considering how significant these changes can be, it’s essential that you know how to tell the difference between menopause-related side effects and signs of something more serious. 

At Broderick Healthcare in North Reading, Massachusetts, Kathleen Logan, FNP-C, specializes in perimenopause and menopause treatment. Here, we highlight five common menopause symptoms so you can better navigate this life transition and feel your best. 

1. Hot flashes 

Hot flashes are one of the most common symptoms of menopause. Studies show that about 75% of women experience them during this stage of life. They cause a sudden feeling of intense heat and often trigger sweating, flushed skin, and chills. 

Hot flashes typically begin after age 45 and often occur alongside other menopausal symptoms, such as sleep issues, vaginal dryness, or mood swings. If your hot flashes occur without other menopausal symptoms, they may be a side effect of medication or the result of an underlying medical issue, like thyroid disease.

2. Heart palpitations

Many women going through menopause say that their heart flutters, races, pounds, or skips beats on a weekly or even daily basis. While these sensations can be startling, they’re often harmless and caused by declining levels of progesterone and estrogen. Heart palpitations may be especially noticeable during hot flashes, which can cause the heart to race. 

If you’re concerned about any cardiovascular symptoms, a women’s health exam can determine whether your symptoms are menopause-related or a sign of something more serious.

3. Brain fog

During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate. Estrogen directly affects the production of certain brain chemicals. Declines in these chemicals are common during menopause and increase the risk of neurological symptoms such as brain fog and difficulty concentrating. 

Many women worry that this increased forgetfulness is a sign of dementia or another serious disorder. However, that’s rarely the case. Tracking symptoms over time can help identify patterns, and lifestyle changes are often enough to ease worry and sharpen focus.

4. Mood changes and anxiety

Nearly 70% of women say they experience mood changes during the transition into menopause. The severity of these fluctuations varies, but some patients report depression or anxiety that interferes with daily life or relationships. 

As with many menopause symptoms, these changes are linked to declining levels of hormones, such as progesterone and estrogen. Because these hormones support the production of brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, hormonal shifts can increase the risk of women’s mental health concerns.  If you’re struggling, don’t wait to ask for professional help.

5. Ongoing sleep problems

Many menopausal women experience chronic insomnia and night sweats, which can make it difficult to fall or stay asleep. Lack of quality sleep can exacerbate other menopause symptoms, such as fatigue or brain fog, creating a compounding effect. Over time, these combined effects may lead to depression or a significant decline in quality of life.

Because sleep plays such a critical role in your overall health, don’t ignore ongoing sleep problems. 

We can help you navigate perimenopause and menopause

Menopause is a normal part of getting older, but for many women, it’s really uncomfortable. But you don’t have to suffer. Various treatments can help balance your hormone levels and make menopause easier to navigate.

After discussing your symptoms and completing an exam and lab testing as needed, we can make custom treatment recommendations to help you feel your best.

If you’re concerned about symptoms, request an appointment online, or call the Broderick Healthcare office at 617-905-1978. We look forward to working with you.