I have awakened from sleep around 3 a.m. several times, over the last 5 or 6 years .. but this week it was two nights in a row. When I wake up, I am boiling hot and sweating and feel anxious, my stomach churns and my heart pounds. These symptoms do subside in perhaps an hour or so.... I am 61 years old, my period stopped at around age 56. Generally I have not slept well since age 56. During the day I am fine, but my appetite has changed...I do not feel hungry like I used to, although I do eat O.K. .... and my blood pressure is fine too. ( check it frequently) Are my symptoms menopause related? If so...how long does the symptoms I have last? I have had my medical check up last month and everything is fine (including pap test and breast exam...I had a colonoscopy 3 years ago, so I am due in 2 years for that again.