Menopause brings with it many changes. While some are positive, others can be challenging for women to deal with. There are a number of steps women can take to ease their transition through menopause, says Maria Emerson, M.D., Director of OB-GYN at Montefiore Nyack Hospital.

What is Menopause?

Menopause means the absence of menstrual periods for an entire year. The ovaries stop working and estrogen decreases. Many menopause symptoms are associated with the decline in estrogen.

A person who suddenly experiences paralysis on one side of the body, has trouble speaking, or has a sudden change in vision may be having either a stroke or a so-called “mini-stroke.”

If you have asthma, COPD or other lung disease, the heat and humidity of summer can take a toll on your breathing. It’s important to pay attention to the weather and air quality, and limit your time outside if needed during the summer months, says Liam Gross, DO, a pulmonologist with Pulmonary Medical Associates/Highland Medical.

Many people are able to manage an occasional headache with over-the-counter pain relievers. But if your headaches are consistent, increasing in frequency or severity, or interfering with your usual activities, talk to your doctor, advises Andrew Erian, M.D., a neurologist with Highland Medical, Rockland Neurological Associates in West Nyack, N.Y.