Menopause. Just that one word alone can strike trepidation into the hearts of the most stalwart women. Menopause is that fork in the road of life of every woman that, when it occurs, changes her life she has known since puberty. What are the signs and symptoms of menopause? Let's explore.
Menopause can strike a women at almost anytime beyond the age of 30 but on average occurs any time from about 40 to 59. Often times many women find that they begin menopause at about the age their mothers did but this is not a hard and fast rule.
The only exception to this is in women who have had both ovaries and uterus surgically removed and in this instance will experience what is known as "surgical menopause." If the ovaries remain after surgery then gradual menopause will take place as natural hormones are produced less over time.
Menopause is usually preceded by what is called Peri menopause As a woman ages, her ovaries gradually begin to produce less and less of the female hormones progesterone and estrogen. This process can be slight at first and symptoms mild.
When this occurs changes in the menstrual cycle begin quite often with skipped periods or they may even occur closer together. Your flow will become more noticeably lighter or heavier and most often are accompanied by hot flashes.
Hot flashes usually begin with a warm feeling starting in your chest and with wave like sensations pulsate into your head. You may experience a redding of your skin and begin to sweat.
Other symptoms which may occur with hot flashes may also include nausea and dizziness. Some woman experience headaches and rapid heartbeat.
If hot flashes occur at night, night sweats and trouble sleeping may produce tiredness the next day making the whole process even more miserable.
Quite often emotional symptoms also occur which can include sadness, tiredness, anxiety, frustration and others. Seeing your physician is your best defense against these types of symptoms. There are treatments available that can help alleviate these symptoms and help make them more tolerable.
Peri menopause and menopause itself is a gradual process and can take several years to get through. Most women find that menopause has ended when no period has taken place for at least 12 months. A simple blood test performed by your doctor can help you determine what stage of menopause you are in.
Not all women experience the same symptoms or the duration of menopause. For some the process is relatively quick and symptoms minor but for most the process can be a time of discomfort and frustration.
Fortunately there are many treatment plans available which include both natural and prescription medication including hormone replacement therapy. Most women prefer trying the natural approach first and for many this may work. Always consult with your physician about your treatment plan if you are not experiencing the results you desire.
To find out all the tips, tricks and latest information on menopause and it's causes along with all the latest treament plans available make certain you visit Barry Crewse's excellent site Menopause Signs And Symptoms. Remember, information is power so power up!
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