Sleep problems common among middle-aged women

By Kathryn Doyle NEW YORK (Reuters Health) – Almost a quarter of middle-aged women report their quality of sleep is less than good, according to a new study. Sleep problems were tied to poor quality of life, chronic illness and medication use, researchers found. The new study adds to earlier research by looking at common sleep problems among women before they hit menopause, according to Dr. Päivi Polo. “Then we try to treat all menopausal insomnia symptoms with hormone replacement therapy … but because in some women the sleep problems are already evident before the menopause, the HRT may not alleviate all sleep problems and we physicians are wondering what to do next.” After menopause, hot flashes and night sweats increase sleep problems, she said.