subject: Menopause Side Effects And How They Affect You [print this page] Menopause and its various stages can be difficult to handle, especially with the many menopause side effects. The list of what can happen with a woman's body before, during and after that time can be unbelievable. Some women have very few, if any, symptoms while others have so many they fear for their health.
Some of the most commonly known side effects are night sweats, hot flashes and mood swings. Irregular periods, when they have typically been regular, may be a sign that menopause has begun. This irregularity may show up as shorter or longer cycles. Some other typical side effects are headaches, joint pain, changes in heartbeat, insomnia and fatigue. These may be symptoms of other conditions and a physician should be seen immediately.
Menopause is quite basically a time of hormonal imbalance. The symptoms that can occur are a direct result of that imbalance. The ovaries are no longer producing eggs and this leads to a decrease in estrogen production. There may also be a decrease in progesterone and testosterone. The treatment for the many possible symptoms is designed to replace what has changed.
Since each person is unique and what they may be lacking is different for each woman, how to approach relief must be individual. Hormone replacement therapy requires extensive testing to ensure what is being replaced is exactly what the body needs. Natural remedies and alternatives do exist. Diet, exercise and stress management can greatly help with symptoms as well.
Overall, menopause side effects can be managed with some help. Support exists no matter how many symptoms are exhibited. Specialists are available to test your unique blend of hormones and address any deficiencies. There is also a great amount of information available below regarding a natural approach to relief.