While menopause can be a stressful experience for some people, the good news is that there is a way to relieve symptoms and live a happy and healthy life. This review discusses the most common symptoms of menopause and how to manage them.
Menopause occurs when a person's menstrual cycles begin to end. This is the result of a decline in reproductive hormones, which usually occurs when the person is in their 40s or 50s. There are three stages of menopause: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. In total, menopause lasts for approximately a year for most people. This is a natural process, so the focus of treatment is symptomatic relief.
Everybody has a different experience with menopause, and its symptoms (and their severity) may vary from person to person. However, commonly reported symptoms of menopause include irregular periods, mood changes, sleep disturbances, changes in sexual function, and body changes.
Having irregular periods is the most notable and common symptom among those who are going through the stages of menopause. Missed periods are common during perimenopause, and many people mistake it for a potential pregnancy. However, periods can still occur during menopause stages, although they are not typically as on schedule as they may have been in the past. Periods may also last for more or less time when they do occur.
Feelings of anxiety, irritability, stress, and fatigue are common for many of those who are going through menopause. In more severe cases, the patient may develop depression or an anxiety disorder (or other types of mood disorders). Most patients see a reduction (or can eliminate) their symptoms after postmenopause. Stress-reduction techniques, such as a good night's rest, breathing exercises, and yoga, can help reduce the frequency and severity of mood changes. Over-the-counter products such as St. John's wort can help reduce stress and anxiety. For more severe cases, antidepressants or anti-anxiety prescription medications may be recommended during menopause.
Sleep complications are expected during menopause. Notably, these include trouble falling asleep, night sweats, chills, and trouble staying asleep throughout the night. Many can control these symptoms with a consistent sleep routine, lifestyle changes, and over-the-counter medications. For example, to address night sweats, it may help to dress in light clothing, use lightweight bedding materials, and turn on a high-powered electric fan. It is also essential to go to sleep at the same time each night and wake up at the same time (including on weekends). Substituting coffee and alcohol for chamomile tea may help too, especially before bedtime.
Changes in sexual function may occur during menopause; this is usually caused by a decrease in ovarian hormone production. A common symptom that affects sexual function and enjoyment is vaginal dryness. Fortunately, there are many ways to address this symptom, such as the use of vaginal lubricants and moisturizers. Regular sexual stimulation can also help with vaginal dryness as it promotes regular blood flow to the genital area.
Body changes are relatively common during menopause. These may include (but are not limited to) a reduction in the fullness of the breasts, the thinning of the hair, dry skin, and weight gain due to having a slower metabolism. However, the body changes are usually minimal and not as noticeable as the patient may think that they are.
The key to menopause symptom management is establishing a lifestyle routine and diet that will help to minimize the symptoms. This may include eating healthier foods, reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption, and exercising regularly. It can also help to establish a consistent and healthy sleep schedule, which may include going to bed and waking up at the same times each day and getting seven or eight hours of sleep each night. It is also very important to visit the doctor regularly to discuss any medications, symptom management strategies, and any other treatments.
Our wellness center helps those who are going through perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause stages. We provide symptom relief to help ensure that they can maintain their optimal quality of life and can function as they desire. To learn more about menopause and receiving symptom relief, give us a call today. Please also feel free to contact us if you have questions, concerns, or are ready to schedule a consultation visit.
Get more information here: https://omgwellnessmd.com or call Optimal Medical Group at (559) 425-1118
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