What is a common symptom of menopause?

Hot flashes are a well-documented and common symptom experienced during menopause. This phenomenon results from hormonal changes, particularly the decrease in estrogen levels that occurs as women transition into this stage of life. Hot flashes are characterized by sudden feelings of intense heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing of the skin, usually affecting the upper body and face. These episodes can vary in frequency and duration, with some women experiencing only a few while others may have them multiple times a day over several years.

The other symptoms listed, while they may be experienced by some women during menopause, are not as universally recognized or as commonly reported as hot flashes. Weight gain, frequent urination, and increased appetite can occur due to various factors, including lifestyle changes, aging, and psychological factors rather than being direct results of menopause-related hormonal changes. Hot flashes, on the other hand, have a clearer and more direct link to the physiological changes occurring during this transition, making them a hallmark of the menopausal experience.