Every year, as temperatures climb, so do the reports of women experiencing symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disturbances.
It’s easy to blame the summer heat, but these symptoms could be signaling something more significant: menopause. Around 2 million women [1] in the U.S. enter menopause each year, typically between the ages of 45 to 55 [2].
But how can you tell if it’s menopause or just the seasonal heat affecting you? This guide dives into the signs to help you distinguish between the two.
What are menopause symptoms?
Menopause typically occurs between the late 40s and early 50s. It marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle and is diagnosed after 12 months without a menstrual period.
This natural biological process brings a range of symptoms due to hormonal changes, primarily a decline in estrogen and progesterone. Here are the key symptoms of menopause:
1. Hot flashes and night sweats
Hot flashes are sudden sensations of warmth, often most intense over the face, neck, and chest.
They can lead to sweating and reddening of the skin. Night sweats are episodes of sweating during sleep, often causing discomfort and sleep disruption [2].
2. Irregular periods
Before menopause, women often experience changes in their menstrual cycles. Periods may become more frequent or more spaced out before stopping entirely [2].
3. Vaginal dryness and discomfort
Lower estrogen levels may lead to drier, thinner, and less elastic vaginal tissues, causing discomfort or pain during intercourse and increasing the risk of infections [2].
4. Mood swings and mental health
Menopause can impact mental health, leading to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Hormonal changes are the primary culprits, but the physical symptoms and sleep disturbances contribute significantly [2].
If you notice these symptoms along with increased sensitivity to heat, it could be a signal that menopause is beginning rather than mere reactions to a hot day.
Heat sensitivity during menopause: How body temperature regulation changes
During menopause, the body’s ability to regulate internal temperature diminishes. This change can make you feel unusually hot during relatively mild weather conditions.
If you find that your heat tolerance is lower than usual, or if heat discomfort is accompanied by night sweats, it could be an indication of menopause rather than just the effect of the environment.
How can you manage menopause symptoms during summer?
Here are some strategies you can do to manage menopause symptoms in the summer:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Dress in light and breathable fabrics
- Use fans or air conditioning
- Avoid triggers like spicy foods and hot drinks
- Eat foods rich in calcium, Vitamin D and soy
Additionally, regular exercise can improve your overall energy levels and help regulate your internal thermostat.
If your menopause symptoms significantly disrupt your daily life or if you experience heavy bleeding, severe mood swings, or prolonged symptoms, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Healthcare providers can offer supplements and treatments like hormone therapy, which can relieve severe menopausal symptoms and improve quality of life.
Whether it’s menopause or just the peak of summer, understanding your body’s reactions ensures you can stay comfortable and healthy in any season.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK285446/
[2] https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000894.htm
