Menopausal
Symptoms Management:
Menopause is a natural part of life and does
not necessarily require treatment. Symptoms
and health risks associated with low estrogen
can be treated. These include hot flashes,
irritability, and an increased risk of heart
disease and osteoporosis. Treatment may include:
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
A number of different types of hormones are available.
They include natural, synthetic, and plant-derived
estrogens and progesterone, combinations of estrogen
and progesterone, or the addition of small amounts
of male hormones. Hormone preparations are available
as tablets, gels, skin patches, vaginal rings,
injections, and pellets inserted into the skin.
Phytoestrogens
A high intake of phytoestrogens may help menopausal
women. They may reduce the risk for diseases
associated with estrogen. Phytoestrogens are
found in soybeans, black cohosh, whole grains,
legumes, and flax seed.
Healthful diet
A healthful diet during menopause can improve a
woman's sense of well-being. It may also reduce
the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, and
certain cancers. The diet should be low in fat
and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains,
calcium, and vitamin D.
Limit caffeine and alcohol
Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol may reduce
symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, and loss of calcium.
Quit smoking
Giving up smoking can reduce the risk of early
menopause, heart disease, and osteoporosis.
Regular exercise
Regular exercise may reduce hot flashes. Weight-bearing
exercises such as walking, climbing stairs, or
lifting weights help to strengthen the bones
and decrease the risk of osteoporosis.
Stress management
Stress management may help ease tension, anxiety,
and possibly other menopausal symptoms. Deep
breathing, massage, warm baths, and quiet music
are examples of relaxation techniques.
Over-the-counter products
Moisturizers and lubricants are used to help vaginal
dryness. Some women claim that vitamin E decreases
the incidence of hot flashes, although this has
not been proven.
Nonhormonal medications
Bellergal is sometimes prescribed to relieve hot
flashes and other menopausal symptoms. Certain
blood pressure medicines have been moderately
helpful in relieving some menopausal symptoms.
These medicines include clonidine (Catapres)
and methyldopa (Aldomet).