Everything You Need to Know About Menopause
Menopause can be defined as a period in a woman’s life when she has not experienced a menstrual period for twelve months in a row. During this time, the ovaries stop producing hormones, and symptoms result from reduced levels of estrogen and progesterone. Did you know that? Here are some additional facts you need to know about menopause.
Onset of Menopause
Most women start experiencing menopause at around 51 years, with some women starting as early as 45 years old. Early menopause can be a result of excessive smoking or Chemotherapy.
Difference between Menopause and Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the moment just before the onset of menopause where the body is adjusting to the decline in hormones. However, a sure way to determine if you have entered menopause is if you have not menstruated for twelve consecutive months.
Symptoms of Menopause
The most common symptom is hot flashes, which is experienced by 75% of women. You might also experience joint and muscle pain as well as mood swings.
Menopause Hot Flashes
If you feel a rise in temperature on the top half of your body followed by heart palpitations, sweating, and dizziness, you are most likely experiencing a hot flash. Some techniques you can apply to help with menopause hot flash relief include breathing exercises, using a fan, and dressing in layers.
Effects of Menopause on bone health
Since there is a significant decline in estrogen production, bone density also decreases, leading to a condition known as osteoporosis. Women in menopause are more likely to experience bone fractures as a result.
Heart Diseases during Menopause
Another effect of reduced estrogen is the body’s inability to retain flexible arteries. You might experience symptoms such as heart palpitations and dizziness.
Weight Gain
Hormonal imbalance during menopause can result in weight gain. Focus on maintaining a healthy diet and practice good eating habits.
Varying symptoms among friends and family
Symptoms of menopause vary from one woman to another. It is important to note that what worked for your friend or family member might not work for you.
Menopause and Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that entails the removal of your uterus. A sure way to know whether you are in menopause is to do a blood test to determine estrogen levels in your body. Knowing your estrogen levels will assist your doctor in determining if your bone density needs to be assessed.
Hormone replacement treatment
You better talk to your doctor before considering hormone replacement therapy to manage hot flashes and bone loss. Should you decide to take the route of hormone therapy, several therapies are FDA-approved.
Non-hormonal options
Hormonal treatment therapies may not be the best option to manage menopause symptoms due to the risks involved. You can incorporate various lifestyle changes such as exercise, avoidance of spicy foods and nicotine, dressing in layers, and weight loss. You can also opt for acupuncture, low-dose antidepressants, and herbal therapies, which are non-hormonal and safer.
Wrap Up
Menopause is inevitable for every woman and a process that comes with increased risk of diseases such as osteoporosis. It would be best if you maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Be sure to contact your healthcare provider if you start experiencing unusual symptoms.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
