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Post-menopausal syndrome

Description

Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation which results in the loss of ovarian follicle development. It refers to the time after menopause. Although the symptoms of menopause have decreased by this time,  a lower level of estrogen puts these women at risk for other health conditions. The conditions include heart diseases and osteoporosis. The age at the menopause appears to be genetically determined and usually starts at the age of 50-55. 

Risk factors

Common risk factors include 

  • Physical inactivity
  • Obesity 
  • Hypertension
  • Hypercholesterolemia 
  • Low calcium intake and
  • Smoking
Symptoms

Post menopausal syndrome symptoms decreases with age but the usual symptoms are :

  • Hot flashes 
  • Night sweats (waking up drenched in sweat)
  • Irritability 
  • Mood swings 
  • Weight gain 
  • Foggy brain 
  • Headaches 
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Breast soreness
Diagnosis

Symptoms of menopause are enough to diagnose that women have started menopausal transition. If you have concerns about your hot flashes then talk to your doctor. Tests aren’t done to diagnose post-menopausal syndrome but under certain circumstances the doctor may recommend blood tests  to check the level of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Estrogen and Thyroid Stimulating Syndrome (TSH).

Management

Post menopausal syndrome can be managed by some lifestyle changes which include 

  • Cool hot flashes by wearing a dress in layers, have cold water and go somewhere cooler. Pinpoint the triggers of hot flashes. Usually the triggers include hot beverages, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, hot weather, stress and sometimes even a warm room. 
  • Get enough sleep - Try to avoid coffee/caffeinated beverages which can make it hard to get to sleep also avoid alcohol, which can interrupt sleep. Exercise during the day time, just not right before bedtime. If hot flashes occur and disturb your sleep, one may need to find a way to manage before you get proper rest. 

  • Decrease vaginal discomfort : Try water-based vaginal lubricant or a silicone-based lubricant or even a moisturizer. Choose a product that doesn’t contain glycerine as it can cause irritation or burning. Staying sexually active also helps with vaginal discomfort as it increases blood flow to the vagina. 

  • Strengthen pelvic floor: Do the pelvic floor muscle exercises which are called Kegel exercises as it can help to improve urinary incontinence 


  • Eat a balanced diet : Include a variety of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Limit sugars, oil and saturated fats. Ask your doctor if you need Vitamin d or calcium supplements to help meet daily requirements. 

  • Don’t smoke: Smoking increases the risk of heart diseases, stroke, cancer, osteoporosis and a range of other health problems. Smoking also increases hot flashes and brings on earlier menopause.

  • Exercise regularly: Exercise regularly or on most days to protect against heart diseases, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other conditions associated with aging. 

  • Practice relaxation techniques: Techniques such as paced breathing, deep breathing, massage, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery may help with menopausal symptoms. There are a number of books and online offerings that show various relaxation exercises. 
When to consult a doctor?

It is important for you to get regular check-ups, and screening tests including breast exams, mammograms, pelvic exams and pap smears.  Kindly consult your doctor so you can be guided accordingly. 

Available Medicine for Post-menopausal syndrome

Clinorette 2mg

Rs.244

Resource Medical