Menopause marks the end of a woman’s menstruation years and her ability to get pregnant. It typically occurs between age 45 and 55. It’s often described as a time of change, but what changes can you expect exactly? How women experience menopause varies from person to person, but here are some common symptoms and experiences that can occur during menopause:
- Periods become irregular. Eventually they will stop altogether.
- Hot flashes followed by cold chills. Thought the cause is not entirely understood, scientists believe that it’s related to changes in the hypothalamus, the portion of the brain that helps regulate body temperature. Mild hot flashes often require not treatment, while more severe hot flashes are may be treated with lifestyle changes and/or prescription medication.
- Frequent headaches. Studies have linked to hormonal changes occurring in the body. Effective treatment for headaches depends on the severity of the pain.
- Insomnia. Again, while the link to menopause is not entirely understood, difficulties falling or staying asleep can often be treated successfully with lifestyle changes.
- Concentration and memory problems. While research has not linked these symptoms with menopause, they may be a result of untreated insomnia or other menopause-related problems.
- Hair and skin changes. The lower level of estrogen associated with menopause can cause a loss of collagen in the skin, thus more wrinkles, as well as thinning of the hair.
- Mood swings and depression. Again, these symptoms have not been definitively linked to menopause, but may indeed be related. Counseling, and medication if needed, may be helpful treatment options.
- Weight gain and/or difficulty loosing weight. While aging and a more sedentary lifestyle may play a part in this, menopause may also be a cause. However, eating a balanced, healthy diet and exercising more can help.
- Decreased sex drive. A gynecological exam may be helpful in determining any physical reason for such a drop in sex drive.
To learn more about menopause, consult the Las Colinas Health Information library online. If you would like a physician referral or to make an appointment to talk with a doctor, please visit us online here.
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