What effects can menopause have on my body?
June 2, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Marie Czakaj
Dear team of the online consultation,
my name is Hildegard Heck and I am 52 years old. In the last few months, I have noticed changes in my body and some complaints that I did not have before. I suspect that I am slowly entering menopause and I am worried about the effects this phase can have on my body.
In recent weeks, I have been experiencing more hot flashes and sleep disturbances, which make me tired and irritable during the day. Additionally, I feel that my skin has become drier and my hair is thinning. My weight also seems to be changing, even though I have not significantly changed my diet.
I am concerned that these changes may be permanent and could have negative effects on my health. I wonder if menopause can also bring other health problems that I have not paid attention to before. Are there ways to alleviate or prevent these symptoms?
I would appreciate it if you could provide me with information on the possible effects of menopause on my body and give me advice on treating the symptoms. I would like to understand what is happening in my body and how I can best prepare for it.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Hildegard Heck
Dear Hildegard Heck,
Thank you for your message and your trust in our online consultation. It is understandable that you are worried about the changes in your body that could be related to menopause. Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life, usually occurring between the ages of 45 and 55, and characterized by a decline in ovarian function.
The symptoms you described such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, dry skin, thinner hair, and weight fluctuations are typical signs of menopause. These changes are caused by the decrease in estrogen production in the body. Estrogen is a hormone that plays a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle, bone health, skin elasticity, and metabolism.
Menopause can also bring other health issues, such as increased susceptibility to osteoporosis due to bone loss, increased risk of heart disease due to declining estrogen levels, and mental symptoms like mood swings, irritability, and depression.
However, there are ways to alleviate and prevent menopausal symptoms. A healthy lifestyle including balanced nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep can help reduce the symptoms. In addition, there are medical treatment options such as hormone replacement therapy, phytoestrogens, antidepressants, or herbal remedies that can be used for severe symptoms.
It is important to discuss your symptoms with your gynecologist to develop an individualized treatment strategy. Your doctor can also help you identify any risk factors for osteoporosis or heart disease and take appropriate measures.
I hope this information helps you better prepare for menopause. Please do not hesitate to ask further questions or seek support from your local doctor if needed.
Best regards,
Marie Czakaj
