Menopause: Symptoms and Treatment
Menopause is defined as the time that marks the cessation of your menstrual cycles. It can happen in your late 40s or mid-50s, but the average age is 51. It is usually diagnosed after 12 months without a menstrual period. Though menopause is a normal physiological process, the hormonal imbalance can cause symptoms that may take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. Women’s specialists of menopause Houston, develop a customised treatment plan to optimise your health and wellness and provide compassionate care.
What is Meant by Menopause?
When you permanently stop having your menstrual cycles, you would reach a phase of life called menopause. This stage signals the end of your fertile period (the ability to have children). It is a time when your hormone levels begin to change.
The transition stage before menopause is often called perimenopause. There is a drastic dip in the levels of estrogens and progesterones during this time. Estrogen depletion is the major cause of most of the menopause symptoms.
Menopause can also occur due to the following reasons other than the natural physiological process:
- Premature menopause: Occurs due to ovarian failure before the age of 40, due to radiation therapy, smoking, or chemotherapy.
- Surgical menopause: This occurs due to the surgical removal of the uterus or the ovaries.
What Are The Symptoms of Menopause
The symptoms of menopause can occur months or years before you actually reach the stage of menopause. These include:
- Hot flashes
- Insomnia
- Anxiety and Depression
- Night sweats
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Low libido
- Vaginal atrophy (dryness and thinning of the vaginal and urethral tissues)
- Pain during sex
- Abnormal weight gain
- Numbness and pricking sensation with heightened sensitivity
- Increase in facial hair or thinning of hair on the scalp
- Heart disease
- Urinary incontinence
- Osteoporosis
It is important to consult your gynecologist to guide you to cope with the symptoms and prevent the onset of long-term health issues.
How Can Menopause Be Treated?
Treatment for menopause depends on the severity of the associated symptoms and your medical history. However, it is essential to note that menopause cannot be treated or requires treatment. But you can seek medical help to optimise health and wellness.
Your treatment plan may include:
- Consuming a healthy, and well-balanced diet
- Regular exercise or workout regime
- Taking nutritional supplements
- Gabapentin or clonidine for hot flashes
- Medications for osteoporosis
- Low-dose antidepressants for anxiety and depression
Takeaway
Menopause is a natural physiological process that cannot be avoided at any cost. It is a stage in life that every woman has to go through. However, it is crucial you seek medical help to cope with the symptoms that can affect your quality of life and could compromise your physical and mental well-being.