What is a common symptom of menopause that affects sleep patterns?

• A. Hot flashes
• B. Increased energy
• C. Decreased appetite
• D. Irregular menstrual cycles

Answer: (A)

Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause that significantly impact sleep patterns. During menopause, hormonal fluctuations, especially the decrease in estrogen levels, can trigger hot flashes, which are sudden feelings of warmth that can lead to sweating, discomfort, and even waking during the night. These episodes not only disrupt sleep by causing awakening but can also make it difficult to fall back asleep.

In contrast, increased energy is not typically associated with menopause; rather, individuals often report fatigue. Decreased appetite generally does not directly relate to menopause symptoms and is not a common complaint among menopausal women. Irregular menstrual cycles are indeed a sign of menopause but do not directly influence sleep patterns in the same way that hot flashes do. Thus, the relationship between hot flashes and disrupted sleep is a critical aspect of understanding how menopause can affect overall health and well-being.