I am 47 years old and I've been having hot flushes for about 2 and a half years. I've not had a period since September 2013 and the last one I had before that was March 2013. I can live with the flushes, albeit not pleasant, but it's my mood swings that are unbelievable. I have absolutely no patience at all and the slightest thing sets me off. I sometimes feel as though I am going to explode! It is really getting me down. Is this normal, and is there anything that can help? I don't want to go to my doctor and be put on HRT.

This is quite a common symptom during the menopause and it is often caused by fluctuating oestrogen.

You may find a magnesium citrate supplement helps to reduce the levels of anger and irritation, and you may also want to check out a natural stress relief remedy such as Stress Relief Daytime, to take the edge off things.

It is very important to talk to those around you so that they know what you are going through and that it isn't really you just being angry!

Try to avoid caffeine ,(coffee, tea, fizzy drinks), as these can make you feel more out of control. Sugary foods may have the same effect, so try out some good dried fruit for snacks instead.

Eileen Durward