Torrance - Menopause Page 2

Symptoms of menopause vary from woman to woman. Some may experience noticeable symptoms whiles others experience very few. Most women will experience some symptoms. The physical and emotional changes that may occur include:

• Irregular menstruation cycle
• Hot flashes
• Decreased fertility
• Sleep disturbances
• Night sweats
• Vaginal dryness
• Emotional changes
(such as mood swings or change in sexual interest and response)
• Joint pain
• Headaches
• Heart palpitations

Menopause is usually diagnosed by a review of your medical history. The signs and symptoms are usually sufficient indicators of menopause. In some instances, blood tests may be performed.

There are health conditions that tend to appear after menopause, due to the decrease in hormone production.

•	Cardiovascular Disease: The rate of cardiovascular disease rises considerably in women after menopause. It is thought that estrogen helps protect against plaque accumulation in the arteries. As estrogen levels decline, the risk for cardiovascular disease increases. It is important to realize that by the age of 60, women are at the same risk for a heart attack as men. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women.

•	Osteoporosis: Estrogen aids in building bones and preventing bone loss. The body is constantly building and breaking down bones. As estrogen levels decline, the body breaks down more bone than it rebuilds. This causes osteoporosis—thinning of the bones. Weaker bones break easily and bones of the spine wrists and hips are the most prone to fractures. Bone loss varies in women. Women who enter menopause with healthy, strong bones will have fewer problems. Continue »

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