How To Manage The First Evidences Of Menopause
Baby boomers are aging. As this phenomenon progresses, increased attention will of necessity be paid to physical ailments, mental disorders and awkward conditions that limit lifestyle options. Among those impacting women is menopause.
The first signs of menopause can leave you thinking you’re going blind, someone has turned up the heat and you’ve completely lost your memory. However, chances are that if you’re a woman between 40 and 58, you’re not going crazy, but simply experiencing the initial stages of menopause.
You don’t need a doctor or expensive estrogen treatments to deal with many of the early signs of menopause. In fact, you can handle most of them yourself. For help identifying several of the stages and symptoms of menopause along with advice on how to cope with them, keep reading.
Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are the most commonly reported symptom of menopause, and they affect approximately 80% of menopausal women. They’re often caused by stress, hot environments or even diet.
To help keep hot flashes at bay, carry a small portable fan and a few moist towelettes in your purse. Having a bottle of ice-cold water on hand can also help. Try freezing a bottle in the freezer the night before and then bringing it with you in your purse.
Decreased Memory
If you’re having trouble remembering where you set down your cell phone, the name of a friend or where you’re supposed to be Friday at 11:00, then carry a pad of Post-It Notes with you. You can jot down simple reminders to yourself and then stick them where they’re visible at all times.
If you’re a little bit more high-tech, then consider writing yourself reminders on your Blackberry or other portable device. You can keep track of more than just your meetings and contacts.
Increased or Abnormal Hair Growth
Many menopausal women experience hair growth in unlikely places. To avoid looking in the rear view mirror and spotting a massive chin hair that you can’t do anything about it, carry a pair of tweezers with you in case of emergency.
Unexpected Sweating at Night
Night sweats are a common sign of menopause. To avoid them, keep your bedroom cool and try relaxing in a warm bubble bath just before bed. Your body will switch from warm to cold, and this can also help induce sleep. Another great way to combat night sweats is to invest in a quality pair of sweat-wicking pajamas.
Joint and Bone Pains
Menopausal women can suffer from major bone and joint problems if they don’t supplement the amount of calcium they’re intaking. Try carrying calcium chews or calcium candy with you.
Dry and Irritated Eyes
Because of the hormone therapies and changes in hormone levels, dry eyes are one of the most common first signs of menopause. To nip this problem in the bud, carry around an over-the-counter artificial tears product in your purse.
