Menopause is a phase following the last menstrual cycle. It is a result of a natural decline in reproductive hormones, which typically happens as women reach their 40s and 50s. There are many symptoms associated with menopause, and night sweats are common in this period. It is essential to recognize and address this symptom and manage it. So, here are some surprising facts about menopausal night sweats one should know. 1. Night sweats may differ from hot flashes Research presented at the North American Menopause Society on the findings of night sweats and hot flashes suggested that night sweats may cause a higher level of stress and discomfort than hot flashes. Further, hot flashes could occur during the day or night but typically have shorter periods of sweating. Night sweats, however, are known to last a lot longer and lead to excessive perspiration. 2.  Triggers are not yet known The exact trigger for night sweats remains unknown. It could be triggered due to declining estrogen levels, but there is not enough evidence to establish the link conclusively. Some believe that when the ovaries stop producing estrogen, there is an increase in the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which sets off the brain neurons that help control the body’s temperature.

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. During this time, a person usually goes 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle. The ovaries gradually produce less estrogen as one ages, leading to irregular menstrual cycles. When the ovaries stop producing estrogen, menopause occurs. Once menopause begins, the fat cells start making most of the body’s estrogen. Here are details on its causes, symptoms, and treatments for menopause. Causes of menopause Menopause is a process that women experience wherein their ovaries no longer release an egg every month and the cycle of menstruation, marked by bleeding, no longer takes place. It usually begins after 40 years of age, but some may experience it earlier. Aging is the most common reason for natural menopause, but there are other reasons why one may experience it. Ovarian surgery, for example, may also be one of the reasons. Chemotherapy is another standard cancer treatment that can damage ovaries and lead to menopause. There are other reasons why the menstrual cycle may stop, like surgery, hormonal treatments, and radiation therapy, to name a few. But to consider a stage as menopause, one has to complete a year without menstrual bleeding.

The term menopause is used to refer to the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. In most cases, this occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 years. Around this time, periods become irregular before they finally stop. It is also a time when estrogen and progesterone levels drop, leading to several changes in the body. These are some early signs of menopause that may interfere with one’s daily life and must not be ignored. Hot flashes and night sweats Most women experience hot flashes during the day as a result of menopause. These are one to five-minute-long sensations of warmth, heat, sweating, flushing, or experiencing chills. When these occur at night, they are referred to as night sweats. They can significantly impact the quality of one’s life by interfering with daily activities and sleep. Although medical help can make symptom management easier, only one in four women seek professional advice for hot flashes. Cognitive issues Estrogen and progesterone are responsible for supporting memory and brain function among women. Thus, reduced levels of these hormones in the body can also cause brain fog and affect memory and concentration in menopausal women. This leads to frustration, affecting their productivity and outlook towards daily activities.

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder that causes loss of color in some areas of the skin. As a result, uneven white patches without any pigmentation start to develop. Some may develop only a few white spots, while others may have a more widespread loss of pigment. However, in both cases, the skin feels normal. There is no cure for this skin condition, although treatment may help stop its progression. Here’s what one needs to know. Causes Vitiligo is a type of autoimmune disorder that occurs when the immune system begins to attack healthy cells. In this case, the immune cells that produce melanocytes, which are responsible for producing melanin, start to die, resulting in a loss of melanin production. Melanin is the pigment that gives color to our skin, so the skin becomes lighter wherever the melanin-producing cells are attacked. Over time, white patches start to appear. It is unknown why the immune system attacks the cells that produce the melanin. However, healthcare experts know certain factors can increase the risk of developing it. Some of the well-known risk factors include: Addison’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that is triggered when the adrenal glands are not able to produce sufficient hormones.

Vitiligo is an autoimmune condition that causes the skin to lose its natural color. It affects millions of people all over the world. Living with this condition can be tough, as various factors can trigger it. This is why it is important to know some ways in which one can manage the condition and prevent it from worsening. To help with that, here are a few tips to manage the symptoms of vitiligo. Eat foods rich in antioxidants Vitiligo is a condition that results in the depigmentation of the skin. One of the ways to prevent this is by consuming more antioxidants. These compounds help reduce the stress on the melanin cells, which are responsible for skin pigmentation. One can find antioxidants in several foods, such as nuts, seeds, citrus fruits, and berries. These are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have antioxidant properties. Incorporating these into one’s meals can help protect the skin cells and reduce the risk of depigmentation caused by vitiligo. Avoid inflammatory foods Vitiligo is a skin condition that causes loss of pigment, resulting in white patches on the skin. It is essential to follow a balanced meal plan rich in antioxidants and free from inflammatory foods to alleviate its symptoms.

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. There are various strains of HPV, or the human papillomavirus, which is usually the primary reason for cervical cancers. HPV is a common STD that can be prevented through a vaccine at an early age. Here are some of the symptoms of cervical cancer and its treatment options. Signs and symptoms Unusual bleeding This is one of the most common signs of cervical cancer. The unusual bleeding can occur between menstrual period cycles, after menopause, or even after intercourse with a partner. Pelvic pain This is another common symptom usually experienced when the cancer cells start to spread to nearby organs and tissues. The metastasis of cancer cells leads to pain in the pelvic region. Pain during intercourse Just like pelvic pain, one can also experience pain or discomfort during intercourse, and this is known as dyspareunia. This can happen due to the tumor in the cervix. Heavy menstrual bleeding Heavy bleeding during a regular menstrual cycle should be noted as an abnormal symptom. It typically indicates an underlying health condition, like cervical cancer. Unusual discharge While vaginal discharge is normal, in cervical cancer, the discharge can be watery or bloody.

In recent years, cancer survival rates have increased tremendously thanks to advancements in cancer interventions. Among these treatments, surgery has emerged as an effective option that prevents the disease from progressing. However, there are certain side effects associated with cancer surgery, leaving patients tired and weak for some time afterward. To eliminate such side effects, it is important to prepare well for the surgical procedure and continue taking adequate care of oneself afterward. Preparing for cancer surgery Take the necessary pre-operative tests Oncologists usually ask patients to take a few general body tests to ensure they are physically fit for the surgery. Some of these tests include the following- A blood test to check blood count, liver and kidney functioning, blood sugar, and more A chest X-ray to examine one’s lung functioning An ECG to check heart health Urine test to examine kidney function Health experts may also suggest other tests based on one’s condition and requirements. One should ensure that all the necessary tests are taken before the surgery and submit the results to one’s doctor well in advance so that if the surgery has to be postponed for health reasons, there’s no last-minute hassle. Have lean protein Protein is essential for building strong muscles, which can help improve resilience during cancer surgery.

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder involving involuntary movements of certain body parts. These are repetitive movements that usually affect the face. Certain treatments cause the onset of TD, as they may lead to chemical changes in the brain. Such changes increase dopamine sensitivity, triggering this condition. Moreover, some existing health issues, such as diabetes, can worsen TD symptoms. It helps to understand the physical effects and treatment options for TD for better management. Physical effects of tardive dyskinesia Sudden, jerky body movements Those with TD may move their arms and legs involuntarily and with a jerk. These movements are often accompanied by thrusting of the trunk and hips, rocking, etc. Facial grimacing TD often affects one’s lower facial muscles, which can lead to involuntary facial grimacing in this area. Facial tics Repetitive, uncontrollable facial movements, like facial tics, are common among those with TD. So, patients may smack their lips, grind their teeth, make fish-like lip movements, blink constantly, or stick out their tongues. Duck-like walk Another common physical effect of TD is a duck-like gait, wherein one may take short strides and shift their body mass constantly between their feet. Respiratory problems Some patients with TD may find themselves constantly feeling short of breath.