menopause

i had a full hysterectomy 10 years ago and was put on hrt patches,i came off them myself 2-3 years ago but my menopausal symtoms (symptoms) arnt getting any better if anything they are worse with time, ihave terrible frequent hot flushes,aching joints and pains and my sleep pattern is disturbed.can i go back onto hrt im 52

[Sanjivani Wanjari, MD]

HI,
The symptoms of joint pains that you are having are mainly related to osteoporosis and taking calcium and vitamin D will help. Stress management and some meditation will help with the sleep problem. Hot flushes can be tackled with HRT or other non hormonal medicines. HRT is a hormonal therapy and hence before restarting it you need to have a full check up and rum some tests.
Hope this helps.