Menopause and the years leading up to it can bring symptoms like hot flashes. We’re here to help you deal with this major life change and turn down the heat.
October 14, 2025
Contributed by: Shauna L. Pagel, APRN-CNP / Obstetrics and Gynecology
As Gen X is hitting menopause, the national conversation is heating up (pun intended). That’s a good thing, says Shauna Pagel, a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP) and nurse practitioner at MetroHealth’s Menopause Clinic. Half the population will go through this transition, so there’s no need to keep it secret!
What is Menopause?
Menopause means you haven’t had a period for 12 months. On average, women go through natural menopause at 52, but it can happen between 45 and 55.
Symptoms of Menopause
Before menopause, you can experience symptoms for years (five is typical, but it could be more), which is called perimenopause. Symptoms are caused by wild fluctuations in levels of the hormone estrogen in your body as you approach menopause. You may notice the following:
- Irregular periods (periods closer together or further apart)
- Heavy periods
- Hot flashes, including night sweats
- Brain fog and mood swings
- Trouble sleeping
By the time you’ve actually hit menopause, your body may be more used to the lack of estrogen, which means the ups and downs may be easier and your symptoms might not be as severe. Everyone’s experience is different.
Tips to Stay Cool
Hot flashes are common—but you can manage them. Try these tips:
- Sleep with a fan
- Keep cold washcloths in the fridge to drape over the back of your neck
- Wear layers you can take off
- Drink plenty of water
- Watch for triggers like alcohol
Treatment Options That Work
While lifestyle changes can help, many women benefit from medical treatments that target the root cause – hormonal shifts. Here are some options to discuss with your provider:
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
- The gold standard for treating hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
- Newer low-dose and bioidentical options are available.
- Can be delivered via pills, patches, gels, or vaginal rings.
Non-Hormonal Medications
- Fezolinetant (Veozah): A newly FDA-approved drug that targets the brain’s temperature regulation center. It’s ideal for women who can’t take hormones.
- SSRIs/SNRIs: Certain antidepressants like paroxetine or venlafaxine can reduce hot flashes and improve mood.
There are also some supplements and alternatives that may help with symptoms. Talk to your doctor about what may work best for you.
Are menopause symptoms getting in the way of everyday life?
Talk to your primary care provider or OB-GYN about whether you may be a good fit for hormone replacement therapy. To schedule an appointment, call 216-MY-METRO (696-3876) or visit metrohealth.org/appointments.
