Menopause
Menopause is the absence of menstruation for a year between the ages of 40-60. It can occur naturally or artificially (induced by surgical removal of ovaries or their damage by radio and chemotherapy). Premature menopause happens before the age of 40.
Premenopause (Perimenopause) is the period of 1-5 years preceding menopause where the ovaries gradually reduce their production of estrogens and progesterone. Women may experience different symptoms caused by the hormonal imbalance during this period such as heavy periods, headaches and long or short cycles.
Symptoms of Menopause
a) Vasomotor symptoms:
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats
- Tiredness
b) Urogenital symptoms:
- Vaginal dryness
- Painful intercourse
- Itching
- Urinary tract infections
- Urinary incontinence
c) Mood and sleep disorders:
- Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping)
- Irritability, depression or anxiety
- Foggy thinking and loss of memory
d) Skin:
e) Heart:
- Palpitation (rapid, irregular heart rate).
- Increased risk of heart disease
f) Skeletal:
- Aching joints
- Osteoporosis (bone thinning) with increased risk of bone fractures
- Muscle pain
g) Other:
|
