What is the Connection between Menopause and Sleep?

When women begin to experience symptoms related to "the change", they may not always be completely prepared for all the physical and mental signs that can accompany this time of life. Some, like hot flashes, we hear about frequently, but others, like sleep disturbances may not be talked about as often. However, there is a connection between menopause and sleep for many women, and the result is often more restless nights that only serve to exacerbate menopausal symptoms during the day. There are many reasons why it might be harder to get a full night's rest during this time. The good news is that there are also plenty of remedies that will help to alleviate your problematic symptoms so that you can be on the road to quality shut-eye and more of it.

Hot Flashes, Menopause and Sleep
Hot flashes are often the culprit in sleepless nights during menopause. Hot flashes can occur any time of the day or night, and can be intense enough to waken you from even the deepest dreams. Many women find it hard to calm down and relax after one of these episodes, so they end up awake for a good portion of the night. For some women, hot flashes are relieved with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), but this treatment is not without a number of risks. Talk to your doctor to determine whether HRT is right for you.

Dealing with Depression
Another connection between menopause and sleep problems may be related to the depression and anxiety that many women experience during this time. If you believe that your sleep deprivation is caused by this problem, there are medications that you can take to relieve your symptoms. Again, your doctor will be the best source of help in these situations. Relaxation exercises can also help with symptoms of menopause and sleep issues, as well as daily exercise and a healthy diet. Exercise can also be a good remedy for other types of sleep problems, as long as it is done early enough in the day to allow the body to relax completely before bed.

Other Problems
Sometimes sleep disorders can develop during this time of life like menopause-induced sleep apnea. If your doctor suspects that sleep apnea is the culprit in your sleepless nights, he can conduct tests to get a definitive diagnosis and prescribe a treatment program that will help you get more rest at night. Another problem may be restless leg syndrome, where you feel as though your limbs must be in motion to be comfortable. There are medications that can effectively treat this medical condition to allow you to get a good night's rest.

Menopause and sleep problems often go hand in hand, but the good news it that there are treatment options available to allow you to enjoy a better night's rest during this time. Sweet dreams!