Menopause and Pain -- What to Expect

Menopause is a natural occurrence that signals the end of a woman's childbearing years. Women reach menopause around the age of 50. Menopause can be diagnosed after menstruation has ceased for at least one year. There is also a condition called perimenopause which may affect women between the ages of 30 and 50. Perimenopause is simply premature menopause during which you continue to menstruate but experience symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. Menopause and pain often go hand in hand together, but luckily there are ways of alleviating the discomfort caused by this change of life.

For the night sweats, some women swear by sage tea. Sage is a popular cooking herb which is thought to help lessen the drenching night sweats experienced during menopause. For hot flashes, some women are turning to mild doses of SSRI antidepressants like Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft. Then of course, there's HRT or hormone replacement therapy. If you are not at risk for breast cancer or have never had breast cancer, you may be a candidate for estrogen replacement therapy. HRT is one of those things that is ideal for some women but not others, so speak to your doctor. Your symptoms and health will be evaluated and your doctor will recommend the best treatment for you.

Some women may experience muscle aches and pains during menopause. Light exercise, gentle stretching and hot baths can help loosen tight muscles. Ibuprofen or another NSAID can be used for pain and swelling. Another common problem many women experience during menopause is thinning hair. Although this is more of a cosmetic issue than a medical one, hair loss can cause great anxiety and a lack of confidence. There are topical treatments like Rogaine that can encourage regrowth, as well as products designed to conceal the hair loss.

If you have questions about menopause and pain, see your doctor. The first thing that will need to be determined is whether or not you are suffering from menopause. If menopause is diagnosed, your doctor will recommend the best treatment options for you. If you're interested in a particular course of action like alternative medicine, HRT or antidepressants, be sure to speak up. Your doctor may be able to devise a treatment plan based on what you most prefer.

Copyright 2007 Elise A. Topek - All Rights Reserved

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