Cope With Menopause Symptoms
Tuesday, May 19th, 2009Keeping Sane During an Insane Period -
The symptoms of menopause can at times be overwhelming. Hot flashes that appear seemingly from nowhere; sleep disruptions due to hot flashes and tears at the drop of a hat, these are the things that make you feel as though you can’t survive menopause.
There’s no reason to feel like you have no coping strategies. There are many different ways to keep sane during your body’s insane period of changes. Utilize the many resources available on the Internet, your friends and family, and of course your family doctor.
Two of the most common symptoms and advice offered to help offset them are offered here:
Hot Flashes: The most common symptom of menopause and probably one of the most uncomfortable ones to endure. They can last anywhere from six months to many years.
Managing: Keep ice water or other cold beverages on hand; take a cold shower before going to bed at night; use cotton sheets on your bed; turn pillow often at night or keep a cold pack under the pillow.
Common triggers to recognize: warm environments; stress or anxiety; spicy foods, hot drinks; caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, sugar; and appetite suppressants.
Treatment Options: Increase vitamin E to 800 mg/day; increase soy protein; yoga or meditation; exercise; learn controlled breathing.
Mood Swings: Fluctuating hormones can lead to mood swings that make you feel like you’re riding a roller coaster every day. Half of all women will experience mood swings during perimenopause. Treatment should begin with lifestyle changes, then alternatives to medication and finally medication if needed.
Lifestyle Changes: Remove as many stressors as possible from your life; get plenty of sleep, eat a balanced diet; exercise more; avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine. Make time for family and friends, those things that make you happy.
Alternative Medicine: Herbal supplements such as Black Cohosh, Vitamin E, Gingko Biloba, Ginseng; non-oral alternatives including massage and acupuncture. Research these areas to find more alternative methods.
Medication: This option should be the last option but should not be ruled out. You may need a doctor to intervene with medication if your mood swings become severe. HRT or hormone replacement therapy is a widely debated treatment option. Discuss this with your doctor and do your own research before deciding. There are also other medications that can help alleviate mood swings. Talk to your physician and get a second opinion if necessary.
There are as many treatment options for the symptoms of menopause as there are symptoms themselves. By using the research tools available through the Internet you can investigate your alternatives and be armed with information when you visit your doctor.
Author: Julie F
Are you going through menopause and struggling with your symptoms? Have you gained weight as you have gotten older? If so, you can help both of these issues with an easy and healthy weight loss plan. Don’t wait another minute to feel better about yourself.
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