Symptoms Of Menopause
You think you might be menopausal, or maybe perimenopausal (the lead up to menopause). You may be wondering why you are experiencing different symptoms. There are many symptoms of menopause, so let’s go through some of them now – perhaps this will help you feel more normal and realize you are not alone! Let’s explore some symptoms of menopause.
Symptoms of menopause that most people will have heard of are, for example:
Brain Fog, and/or Forgetfulness
Even the most together and organized woman can experience this, and it can really throw you off balance as it will seem so out of character. Sadly, this can be misdiagnosed by doctors as early-onset dementia (yes, really!), so it is vital that you understand how normal it is (although it’s still a good idea to get dementia checked off the list, just in case, especially if your parents experienced it at a young age).
There are a number of things you can do to help overcome brain fog and forgetfulness. Recognizing them as legitimate symptoms of menopause is the first step. Other ways that you can deal with brain fog and forgetfulness include…
Hmm, now… what was I saying? Oh yes, dealing with brain fog and forgetfulness! Firstly, do not be hard on yourself – this symptom has the nasty habit of becoming more exaggerated the more stressed or overwhelmed you feel. Try to avoid being superwoman and taking on too much. Deal with the symptoms as they present themselves. Keep a diary! We find that a good old-fashioned written diary works best because you have more control over it and you do not need to log in having to remember passwords! Treat yourself to an outing to a shop such as Waterstones or HomeSense, where they often have some beautiful diaries – it will become a pleasure to use. Start your ‘to do’ list the day before, so that you don’t wake in the morning and try to remember what you are supposed to be doing that day. Take the pressure off by planning ahead.
Post-It Notes!
A friend of mine uses post-it notes around the house, on the fridge door, or inside the bathroom cabinet – very good for jogging your memory and helping with forgetfulness. The possible irritation this causes your family members is definitely worth it for your peace of mind and sense of control! Also, please don’t feel ashamed of this experience – talk to your partner and your children, and let your loved ones help you. Partners can be very understanding if they understand what they are supposed to understand (that sentence made sense to me, I hope it did to you, but if not, then I know you will understand what I am trying to say – I will now take a breath).
Irregular periods
If you are perimenopausal, then you might be experiencing irregular periods. Periods can be irritating enough when they are regular. Now, as if to add insult to injury, you find you just don’t know when they are going to happen. Getting caught short is so embarrassing. Make sure you have towels and tampons in your handbag. Perhaps a change of underwear too (they don’t make big bags for nothing!).
One of the most annoying things is a night-time bleed. I think we all lose count of how many sheets we ruin. Even mattresses sometimes. You might wake to a scene from a horror movie after a mass murder! There is a company, called Thinx, which specializes in period underwear (no, not the Elizabethan kind of period!). Apparently, the knickers will hold up to four tampons full of blood without leakage, and without damaging your clothes. Many women swear by them! And let’s face it, when you get to our age, often big comfortable knickers matter more than sexy ‘skimpets’! In fact, as a practical kind of girl, you may have started wearing big knickers in your 30s? Most of us see them get decidedly bigger with each decade!
Unfortunately, apart from being prepared, there is not much you can do about irregular bleeding, although you could ask your GP for hormone-based contraception as this may alleviate some symptoms. And, of course, contraception is advisable if you are still having periods – although the risk of pregnancy is very low, it still can happen.
Vision
Night driving can suddenly become really uncomfortable for women. We recommend getting your eyes checked during perimenopause, as sight can rapidly change. You may have been long-sighted before, and suddenly you find yourself short-sighted! Go to see your optician, get them tested, and wear your glasses if that is recommended. Avoid night driving unless you have to.
Night sweats
Now, let’s get all hot and sticky. Night sweats, wow, so upsetting for some women! You can help yourself by not overdressing, using lighter-weight bedding, and perhaps having a fan in your room. Sleep on a towel, and always use a mattress protector – sweat causes staining, so mattress protectors can be very useful. But let’s face it, night sweats are often day sweats too! They don’t discriminate, do they? As heat is an issue for most menopausal women, you may want to steer clear of the following:
- Smoking, or even inhaling second-hand smoke (is your partner a smoker?)
- Wearing tight clothing that prevents ease of movement.
- Having heavy winter blankets or duvets on the bed.
- Alcohol and Caffeine – these are two major triggers in heating up the body, so they are wise to avoid.
- Spicy food can be a trigger for some.
Last, but not least, manage your stress levels. Stress is a key trigger and can exacerbate menopausal symptoms, so become more mindful of your stress levels.
To learn more about menopause symptoms, sign up to our Menopause Experts Training, completely free.
‘As with any information created or developed by Menopause Experts, the information in this post is accurate at time of posting and is for information purposes only. It is not intended to replace or substitute the judgement of any medical professional you may come in contact with. You should always seek advice from your health care professional regarding a medical condition’
