Night sweats in postmenopause: is this normal?

The four stages of menopause culminate in a phase referred to as “postmenopause,” which is basically the rest of your remaining years after menopause ends. Though symptoms of menopause have generally mellowed at this stage, they haven’t necessarily become nonexistent.

Your hormones may not have completely found their balance yet. During menopause, the ovaries shrink. The ovaries are where testosterone and other essential hormones are produced. So after menopause your body may still need to adjust to the reality that it isn’t able to secrete the amount of hormones it once could. The problem with night sweats is that they can lead to other problems like insomnia, which can turn into a whole other host of health problems.

While you are waiting for your body to become accustomed to its new chemistry, here are some tips to help identify the source of your night sweats and advice to help you sleep through the night and avoid waking up drenched with sweat.

Common causes of night sweats

Hormone imbalance

You may still be experiencing a displacement of estrogen and progesterone.

Certain medications

Certain medications like antidepressants, hypoglycemic agents, and hormone therapy can induce night sweats.

Certain food

Spicy and hot foods like garlic and chili peppers can raise body temperature.

Surroundings

If you have sheets made from unnatural fibers or your bedroom is too hot, you may be putting yourself at risk for night sweats.

Other health conditions

If you are having, constant, chronic, severe night sweats, make sure your doctor is aware so she can test you for other possible causes.

Tips for alleviating postmenopausal night sweats

Research shows that 75% of women experience night sweats during menopause. Symptoms of nights sweats include increased body temperature, nausea, chills and headaches. Click the following link to learn more about night sweats and how to prevent them.

Watch what you eat

Smart eating habits will not only promote overall wellness, but can target night sweats specifically. For instance herbs like sage have cooling properties.

Exercise.

Regular exercise is one of the easiest ways to maintain hormonal balance.

Hydration is key.

Dehydration is one of the major causes of elevated body heat.