subject: Dr. Maureen Muoneke Says Menopause Can Be Cool [print this page] Power surges, personal summers..Power surges, personal summers... whatever you call them, hot flashes are just one of the symptoms of menopause that women just don't warm up to. While the subject of menopause has traditionally been kept to hush-hush discussions in the past, Dr. Maureen Muoneke knows that talking about it openly is healthy. These days, the subject is less 'taboo', and women share experiences, as well as tips on getting through this inevitable time.
For some, there are things your mother never told you, and unless you asked, your doctor may not have either. Friends who are experiencing perimenopause or menopause are often a good place to turn for advice, If you aren't comfortable discussing the topic with others, let us help you out with some basic information on what to expect and how to lessen the impact. First of all, know that much of what you'll be feeling is typical, but if any of these symptoms become unbearable, or seem extreme, then please talk with your doctor about treatments.
Physical discomforts
Whether you are taking the path of hormone therapy or natural or alternative treatments, your goal is likely to transition with as little discomfort and life-disrupting consequences as possible. Perhaps the most visible symptom of menopause is the hot flash. You've probably witnessed women fanning themselves in the winter, sweating indoors with no exertion, or wearing a sleeveless top when it's 40 degrees outside. Without the help of pharmaceuticals, Dr. Muoneke feels the best thing you can do is to learn a few tips for dealing with these mini-heat waves.
* Dress in layers so you can peel when necessary, and wear loose-fitting clothing.
* Wear wicking fabrics to take perspiration away from your skin.
* Learn deep breathing exercises - they can help you expand your rib cage, triggering the parasympathetic nervous system which calms you down and helps regulate body temperature.
* Lower the thermostat indoors, stay in the shade outdoors.
* Stay hydrated and avoid spicy foods "" they can actually raise your body temperature (as does alcohol.)
* If all else fails, and you can't stand the heat, check with your doctor about hormone therapy or other medications that could help.
You will also want to be prepared for the possibility of disrupted sleep, vaginal and urinary problems, changing feelings about sex, and developing osteoporosis (weakening of the bones). Take care of yourself with diet and exercise, and arm yourself with accurate advice on treatments.
Risk of depression
Many women are susceptible to depression during perimenopause and menopause. If your stress level reaches an all-time high, or you're experiencing emotional problems it could be attributed to many things that are only exacerbated by menopause. These could include:
* Not being physically active
* Smoking
* Not having a social support system
* Depression prior to menopause
* Being unhappy in your relationships
* Having negative feelings of getting older
* Disappointment that you can't have children anymore.
It's important to identify what factors you can change to help alleviate some symptoms of depression or stress. For instance, stop smoking, take up exercise, get involved in something that keeps you busy and connected and your mind off of "the change".
Moving on
It's been happening for ages, women have been surviving menopause. Your attitude and your willingness to get support can make all the difference in how easily you transition. So chat with your friends, confide in your husband, talk to your doctor, or invest in a sturdy fan. Just know that you can make it through calm, cool, and collected "" ready for the next exciting phase of your life to begin.
