Have you heard several myths about menopause and want to know if there’s any truth to it? Well, you are in the right place. Here we have covered all the aspects of menopause that help you understand its signs, treatment methods, and possible complications. Read further to learn more!
Signs of Menopause
If you are entering menopause, you may experience the following symptoms:
● Hot flashes
● Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
● Night sweats and/or cold flashes
● Urinary urgency
● Vaginal dryness during sex
● Insomnia
● Emotional changes such as mild depression, irritability, or mood swings
● Dry skin, dry mouth, or dry eyes
● Breast tenderness
● Changes in menstrual flow or irregular periods
Some females may also experience:
● Racing heart
● Changes in libido
● Headaches
● Hair loss or thinning
● Temporary memory lapses or difficulty concentrating
● Muscle and Joint aches
● Weight gain
Treatment Methods for Menopause
There are several ways to deal with menopause: The include:
Medications
Some medications that experts prescribe are:
● Topical minoxidil
● Eflornithine hydrochloride topical cream for unwanted hair growth
● Nonhormonal vaginal moisturizers and lubricants
● Ospemifene for vaginal dryness and painful intercourse
● Prophylactic antibiotics for recurrent urinary tract infections
● Denosumab, teriparatide, raloxifene, or calcitonin for postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
To manage menopausal symptoms, you can consider the following home remedies and lifestyle changes:
● Keep cool and comfortable by wearing loose, layered clothing and keeping your bedroom cool. Use a portable fan when needed.
● Engage in regular exercise and manage weight to increase energy, improve sleep, enhance mood, and promote overall well-being.
● Seek support from a therapist or psychologist to address feelings of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and identity changes. Communicate your needs to family members and loved ones.
● Consider taking calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium supplements to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and improve energy levels and sleep. Consult with your doctor for personalized supplement recommendations.
● Practice relaxation techniques such as yoga, box breathing, and meditation to manage stress and promote relaxation.
● Apply moisturizers to combat dry skin and avoid excessive bathing or swimming that can dry or irritate the skin.
● Use over-the-counter sleep medications temporarily for insomnia, or discuss natural sleep aids with your doctor for better sleep quality.
● Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption to reduce symptom severity. Smoking and heavy drinking during menopause can worsen symptoms and pose health risks.
Menopause Complications
Heart Disease
After menopause, the risk of heart disease significantly increases for postmenopausal women, surpassing that of men. The decline in estrogen levels during menopause is associated with irregular heartbeats or heart palpitations.
To reduce the risk of heart disease, quit smoking and follow a heart-healthy diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables provides effective protection against heart problems.
Osteoporosis
Estrogen plays a vital role in new bone production by supporting osteoblasts, the cells responsible for generating bone tissue. Without sufficient estrogen, osteoblasts struggle to produce new bone, leading to weakened bones due to the effects of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for absorbing bone tissue.
Adopting certain measures can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Regular exercise and a calcium and vitamin-D-rich diet are simple yet effective ways to prevent osteoporosis.
Urinary Problems
Urinary incontinence, the occasional involuntary release of urine, is common among aging women, especially after menopause. The decline in estrogen during menopause causes thinning and reduced elasticity of vaginal tissues and the lining of the urethra, resulting in uncontrollable urine leakage, particularly during sudden movements like laughing or coughing. Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight are both helpful in managing urinary problems.
Weight Gain
Weight gain, especially around the abdomen, is common during menopause. Therefore, it is essential to control calorie intake, follow a nutritious diet, and exercise regularly. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for preventing the majority of menopause complications. Regular visits to the doctor throughout the menopause process are important for careful monitoring of symptoms and ensuring a healthy transition.
Bottom Line
In a nutshell, menopause can cause several problems in a woman’s life. But with the right treatment and remedy, you can easily deal with this problem. So, if you are nearing your menopause state or already dealing with it, consult an expert.
