Menopause can be a physically painful and emotionally confusing time in a woman’s life. Menopause usually begins in the late forties or early fifties. Menopausal symptoms usually last for the whole transition period, but some women may experience them for the rest of their lives. However, this doesn’t mean you have to suffer a lifetime of discomfort. In this article, we’ll look at some treatment options that may reduce the stresses of menopause.
There are a variety of menopause symptoms and women can experience any of them in varying degrees. Some women are lucky enough to experience no symptoms of all. About 75 to 85% of American women get hot flashes during the change, which are a sudden, transient sensation of warmth or heat that spreads over the body creating a hot flush, which is noticeable on the face and upper body and is the body’s reaction to a decreased supply of the hormone estrogen. Night sweats are the evening cousin of hot flashes, but typically are more intense.
Menstrual irregularity is common in the mid-forties as women approach menopause. A lack of hormonal balance or a decrease in estrogen production is the main cause of it. During this time, women may also experience low libido and vaginal dryness. When your estrogen levels drop, your vaginal tissues start drying and become less elastic. Sex becomes uncomfortable, you may be more prone to infections, your vagina is frequently itchy and easily irritated, and on the emotional side, you may feel older.
Fatigue, difficulty concentrating and mental confusion are among the most common menopausal symptoms that women experience. Not getting enough sleep or having sleep disrupted can contribute to memory and concentration problems. It is mostly associated with low levels of estrogen and with high stress levels. To combat the symptoms, experts suggest relaxation therapies, such as deep breathing exercises, yoga and meditation. Menopausal women should also pay close attention to their diet and be physically active on a regular basis.
Perhaps the most difficult of menopausal symptoms to deal with is the emotional roller coaster than some women experience. Depression, chronic mood swings, and anxiety are illnesses that can be treated so see your doctor for a discussion about antidepressants. To minimize these symptoms, try to incorporate some physical activity into your life. Exercise helps boost endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, so it may help to improve your mood. Whether your symptoms are physical or emotional, make sure that you take care of them and live as full a life as you did before menopause.
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For helpful hints to combat night sweats go to Help For Night Sweats. The tips have been a real lifesaver for many of my clients.