Friday, July 2, 2010

What Are the Common Symptoms of Menopause?

Every woman knows that pending menopause is likely to make itself felt in her late forties/early fifties. But just what are the common symptoms of menopause?

Women reach menopause one year after their menstrual cycles come to an end, on average at the age of 52. The symptoms of menopause appear long before. Medical reports show that 8 out of 10 women experience signs of menopause.

These are some of the more common symptoms of menopause, which can alert you to the fact that your body is entering this new phase of life.

* Irregular periods are an early sign that a woman is approaching menopause. Many women have an increase in blood loss, but others experience a decrease in the quantity of menstrual flow.

* Sleep disturbance occurs frequently during menopause and can make day to day life difficult. A good night's sleep is vital to keep you feeling energetic and well, but anxiety, mood swings, and night sweats are all symptoms of menopause which can play a part in interrupted sleep.

* Hot flashes or flushes and night sweats are among the most disruptive symptoms of menopause for many women. A hot flash is a rush of heat that occurs in the upper body and is felt throughout the face, neck and chest.

Your skin may turn bright red as your sweat glands seem to work overtime. Night sweats can have you throwing off the bedclothes in a bid to cool down and get back to sleep.

* Changes in the vaginal area affect many women, and 33% of women experience vaginal atrophy leading up to, and after menopause. This dryness can cause itching, and sexual intercourse uncomfortable.

* Mood swings can make a woman in menopause feel out of control. It's not uncommon to have bouts of excessive anger and frustration or to cry easily at this time.

* Increased abdominal fat can put in an unwelcome appearance during menopause. There are many causes, including altered metabolism, hormonal fluctuations and a more sedentary lifestyle.

Fortunately there's a lot you can do to relieve the common symptoms of menopause, and as you go through these years and emerge on the other side you may find yourself entering a new and vigorous stage of life that has plenty to offer.

By : Elizabeth_Martyn

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