BEYOND HOT FLUSHES - UNCOMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MENOPAUSE
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life that marks the end of her reproductive years. While hot flashes and night sweats are widely recognized as common menopausal symptoms, there are several lesser-known signs and symptoms that women may experience during this transitional period. In this article, we will explore the common and uncommon symptoms of menopause.
Common symptoms of Menopause
Hot Flushes: These are perhaps the most infamous symptoms of menopause. These sudden, intense sensations of heat can lead to flushing, sweating and palpitations. They are caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly a decline in oestrogen levels.
Night Sweats: These are similar to hot flushes but occur primarily during sleep. Women experiencing night sweats often wake up drenched in sweat, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.
Irregular Menstrual Cycles: As menopause approaches, menstrual cycles become irregular. Periods may become heavier or lighter and the time between periods can vary.
Mood Swings: Hormonal changes during menopause can affect a woman's mood, leading to increased irritability, anxiety and even depression in some cases.
Vaginal Dryness: Decreased oestrogen levels can result in vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse.
Urinary Tract Infections: Oestrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the urinary tract, including the lining of the urethra and bladder. When oestrogen levels decline during menopause, several changes can occur that increase the risks of UTIs.
Sleep Disturbances: Sleep problems are common during menopause, including difficulty failing sleep, waking up frequently during the night and early morning awakenings.
Hair Thinning or Loss: While hair loss is more commonly associated with men, some women may experience thinning hair or even hair loss during menopause due to hormonal imbalances.
Uncommon or LESS-KNOWN symptoms of Menopause
Voice Changes: Some women may experience changes in their voice during Menopause. This can include hoarseness or a deeper voice due to hormonal fluctuations affecting the vocal cords.
Frozen Shoulder: This can also be known as adhesive capsulitis, is characterised by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Some women may develop this condition during menopause possibly due to hormonal changes affecting joint health.
Memory Issues: Cognitive changes, including memory problems and difficulty concentrating can occur during menopause. These issues are often referred to as "brain Fog" and can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations.
Digestive Problems: Menopause can lead to changes in the gastrointestinal system, resulting in symptoms such as bloating, gas and changes in bowel habits.
Changes in Body Odour: Hormonal shifts can also impact body odour. Some women may notice changes in their natural scent or increased perspiration.
Conclusion
Menopause is a unique and individual experience for each woman and while common symptoms like hot flushes and mood swings are widely recognised, the less common symptoms and signs can also have a significant impact on daily life. It is essential for women to be aware of these potential symptoms and seek support from healthcare professionals to manage them effectively. Embracing the changes that come with menopause and seeking appropriate medical guidance can help women navigate this natural transition with greater ease and comfort.
Dr. Maria Zalazar
Thank you, Dr. Maria Zalazar, for sharing with us all your knowledge and expertise in this space.
You can find her information below for anyone looking to take classes with Dora or ask her questions.
INSTAGRAM: @drmariazalazar
WEBSITE: mz-medical.com
CEO + FOUNDER OF HBY:
HELLO, I’M MARTHA
Menopause, or as we call it, Her Best Years, is a new and exciting stage of life for women.
I'M A 56-YEAR-OLD WOMAN LIVING AND LEARNING THROUGH MENOPAUSE. I AM DETERMINED TO CHANGE THE MINDSETS AND PERSPECTIVES OF WHAT MENOPAUSE MEANS BY REBRANDING IT AS AN EXCITING CHAPTER TO LOOK FORWARD TO.
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