Read Dr. Holly L. Thacker’s latest column on the joys of the holiday season and how to make the most of the time with family and friends, while staying happy, healthy and in charge!

I have noticed that my skin has lightened around my throat area. Is this something to worry about? I am 64 years old and had radiation for breast cancer on my left side in 2006.

I had my blood levels checked in June. I had a good mammogram and doctor’s visit in October. My only health concern is trying to control my cholesterol levels. Is there anything I should worry about?

I’m officially in menopause and gaining weight. What are some strategies for weight loss that will work for me now?

Why are women vulnerable to stress? If you’re “dashing through the snow” this holiday season, chances are you’re experiencing stress — especially if you’re a woman. Women are vulnerable to stress due to: Socialization - Women are taught to nurture others and spend less time caring for themselves. They often feel guilty saying “no.” Too many hats - About 70 percent of married women with children under 18 work also outside the home. Struggling to meet the “male standard” at work and the…

Memory difficulty is a typical symptom of menopause, but some might fear that it’s an early sign of Alzheimer’s. Many describe a sudden inability to recall simple facts as “brain fog.” If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. You’re not likely losing it or developing dementia. Dipping levels of estrogen — whether from menopause or having a baby — affect brain function. Facts to ease your mind about memory ‘blips’ People with Alzheimer’s aren’t aware enough of their condition to recognize it…

Make the right birth control choices for your lifestyle. Download a free guide to learn about the daily and permanent options that could be right for you.

I am a 63 year old white female in excellent health. I drink a powdered, protein supplement in 12 ounces of 1 percent milk daily. Should I be concerned about too much protein in my diet?

Read Dr. Holly L. Thacker’s blog about female orgasm, female sexual dysfunction and on-label and off-label treatments.

Use yoga exercises for back pain relief. Certified yoga therapist Judi Bar, from the Cleveland Clinic, demonstrates four yoga positions that help treat a sore back.

When you are in a-fib, is it hurting your heart? I know it can cause a stroke, but what else is it doing to my body?

Preparing for a Hysterectomy? Think twice. You might not need it! One out of three women has a hysterectomy (surgery to remove the uterus) by age 60. But only 10 percent of hysterectomies are to prevent or treat cancer. The rest are for conditions that today may be treatable with less invasive options. Hysterectomy use to be the only option for women suffering with excessive bleeding, endometriosis, benign tumors and other uterine conditions. But that’s no longer the case. Less Invasive…

You would never guess a dessert as creamy and delicious as this pumpkin mousse recipe could be healthy and low in calories! Just mix the mousse ingredients together and sprinkle the homemade granola on top.

This recipe is perfect for fall when there are so many different types of apples to choose from. Sautéed in apple butter and mixed with cinnamon—what's not to like about this dessert?

I get up four or five times a night to go to the bathroom. Is this normal for a 74-year-old woman?

I take a diuretic in the morning as well as a heart pill and baby asprin. I am a little overweight. Would any of this contribute to having to urinate so frequently throughout the night?

Read Dr. Holly L. Thacker’s blog post about the exaggerated, political controversies regarding menopausal hormone therapy in this post-Women’s Health Initiative era.

I suffer from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Any suggestion as to what to eat for breakfast? I am also dieting.

I am post-menopausal and have horrible hot flashes, insomnia and anxiety. I don’t have a uterus, so should I still take bio-identical progesterone cream to avoid estrogen dominance?

I have gotten two different answers about taking progesterone cream from local gynecological doctors. There is too much conflicting information out there, so thank you for your help.

Be Proactive About Your Health Women are notorious for putting everyone else’s healthcare needs ahead of their own. At Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Specialized Women’s Health, we encourage every woman to be proactive about her health. Being proactive allows you to enjoy a longer, more active life — and more time with those you love. Breast cancer is one of the diseases women should be most vigilant about: It is the most common female cancer in the United States, affecting one in eight…

I’m officially in menopause and gaining weight. What are some strategies for weight loss that will work for me now?

Read Dr. Holly L. Thacker’s blog about the common pick-me-up of beverages, coffee and tea, and how they affect the liver. Know that having a 'fatty liver' is not good for your health.