Ways to Control Unbearable Menopause Symptoms

Menopause is inevitable for every woman, but its symptoms don’t have to be. Thanks to modern medicine, menopause symptoms can be eased temporarily. In some cases, menopause symptoms don’t stick around for long and end up fading away on their own. However, the other unfortunate women who have to endure unpleasant symptoms of menopause will need to be diagnosed and treated. 

Discussing Your Menopause Symptoms with Your Physician

The first step is to discuss your symptoms with your doctor. This will make it easier to determine the best treatment options and discuss possible side effects and risks. Every woman is different, so what one finds effective may not be suitable for the next. When you go to see your doctor, make sure to:

• Be detailed about your symptoms and their discomfort levels
• Discuss your age, existing conditions and risk for diseases
• Inform him or her about any past menopausal hormone therapy you have had
• Tell him or her how long you’ve been going through menopause

How to Deal with Common Menopause Symptoms

Not all women experience all menopause symptoms, and as mentioned, not any two women are alike. So what one woman may be going through during her time of menopause may be very different than another menopausal woman. Here is a look into the common symptoms of menopause and how to deal with them:

• Hot flashes: Try dressing in layers and then removing them as you feel hot flashes coming, have a fan running at home and at work, pay attention to and try to stay away from triggers (spicy foods, alcohol, hot places, stress, caffeine, etc.), take deep slow breaths and try losing weight if you are overweight. The best treatment for hot flashes and night sweats is menopausal hormone therapy. 
• Vaginal dryness: Try using an over-the-counter remedy like K-Y Jelly, which can make intercourse easier. Replens and other over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers can also be used. This should be applied every couple of days.
• Insomnia: Being more physically active (avoid exercising right before bed), drink something warm before you go to sleep (preferably something caffeine-free), don’t take daytime naps and try to sleep and awake at the same times daily, make sure your room is dark, cool and silent, and avoid smoking and eating before bedtime. If all else fails, talk to your physician. 
• Mood swings: Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, stay physically active, avoid stress and taking on too much responsibilities, talk to a therapist or join a women support group. Menopausal hormonal therapy can also help ease this symptom. 
• Memory problems: Getting enough sleep and exercising can help improve brain functions, especially mental exercises. Talk to your doctor if this doesn’t help. 

Menopause is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to be a horrible experience. 
Talk to your physician today to see how you can make your symptoms non-existent or easier to live with.