I am 62 years old and was told by my GP that I was through the menopause without any symptoms other than hair loss, which has now re-grown. However all of a sudden I have started having hot flushes. This year I have lost 3stone 8lbs and was feeling great until these flushes as they are affecting my ability to exercise.

You are considered through the menopause after not having had any periods for 2 years and by then your symptoms should be tailing off.

If you are still experiencing menopause-like symptoms after all this time then they may be due to other factors such as low iron, low thyroid or low vitamin D. It may be a good idea to ask your doctor to test for these just to rule them out.

If it is not any of these, then menopause-like symptoms after all this time may be an indication that your nervous system is overwhelmed (also known as Adrenal Stress). In this situation it is very important to do supportive work for the adrenals such as a high strength multivit with extra magnesium, liquorice tea can be helpful as well. I would also suggest acupuncture, it can be very effective for adrenal stress. This should help you resume exercise. Studies have shown that daily relaxation can reduce symptoms quickly so make 30 min relaxation a day a priority. Check your diet too, avoid caffeine and high salt and sugar foods as these can all trigger the adrenals contributing to symptoms.
 
In the meantime you may find sage tablets helpful, these are traditionally used for hot flushes and night sweats.

Eileen Dulward