huffingtonpost - 2 days ago

Woman with headacheYou might associate menopause and perimenopause (the period before menopause officially starts, but in which some people experience symptoms) with things like hot flushes and night sweats. But those are just two of over 60 signs that have been linked to the change. These can include a frozen shoulder, dry eyes, and rosacea, among many others.And as autumn moves into winter, the cooler months can impact the severity of such symptoms, experts suggest.Josephine Smith, a practitioner at Supplement Hub, explained that the “colder, darker months can... intensify menopause symptoms due to hormonal fluctuations, reduced sunlight and seasonal stress”.“As the body naturally produces less serotonin and vitamin D in autumn and winter, certain symptoms can feel much worse,” she added.“Temperature shifts between cold outdoor air and warm indoor heating can also trigger hot flushes and headaches, while central heating at night can make flushes even more uncomfortable. Plus, seasonal stress and routine changes can raise cortisol levels, disrupting hormonal balance further.”Which menopause symptoms can get worse in winter?Smith listed the following as the symptoms most likely to get worse as the winter months get underway:Low moodSleep disruptionJoint painItchy skinHot flushesHeadachesAnxietyBrain fogHeart palpitations.“These seasonal shifts can create a perfect storm for women going through menopause,” she explained. How can I make menopause more manageable in winter? Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, can be useful in managing all menopause side effects because it helps to replace the hormones lost in the process.The NHS said patients should begin to feel better in a matter of days or weeks after taking HRT. Smith added that there are things you can do at home to help alleviate the symptoms as well. Exercise, for instance, “supports bone density and joint mobility, both of which can decline due to falling oestrogen levels”. Yoga, pilates, and indoor strengthening workouts can all help. Meanwhile, hydrating your skin with moisturisers can help to keep it healthy (and less itchy).As for hot flushes, she advised: “To stay more comfortable and reduce the severity of hot flushes, try dressing in breathable layers, keeping rooms well-ventilated and avoiding common triggers in your diet where possible”. She added: “Schedule time for mental health-boosting activities like journaling, meditation, exercise, solo trips or connecting with friends and family – whatever it takes to fill your cup – to boost your mood and reduce anxiety.”Related...The Surprising Effect Menopause Can Have On Your EyesBoost Heart Health After Menopause With This 5-Second Daily TrickThe Sleep Change You Should Never Ignore In Menopause

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