Menopausal changes begin happening long before we expect them. Sad but true. While the average age of menopause is 51; women begin experiencing symptoms 10-15 years before that time. As we age, our hormone levels begin declining. The imbalances begin to manifest themselves in some very distinct ways; not only wreaking havoc on our bodies, but also messing with our minds.
Debilitating symptoms found in perimenopausal and menopausal women include weight gain, irregular or unbelievably heavy periods, mood swings, hot flashes, low libido, vaginal dryness, night sweats and insomnia and “brain fog”. It’s maddening for both women and their partners, and can strain relationships to their breaking point.
Worse yet, untreated hormone deficiencies increase the risk for heart attack, stroke and some cancers. When appropriate, symptoms and risks can be addressed and managed through a combination of bio-identical hormone replacement, lifestyle changes and if necessary, a weight loss program.
Symptoms of Estrogen Deficiency
Hot flashes, night sweats
Insomnia (difficulty getting to sleep, staying asleep or both)
Dry or sagging skin
Dry eyes or change in vision
Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
Weepy for no reason
Foggy brain or memory loss
Vaginal dryness, often leading to painful sex
Decrease in lubrication
Urine leakage or incontinence
Sagging breasts
Skin crawling or itching
Changes in periods (too early or too late)
Heavy periods with clots and severe cramping
Recurrent yeast infections or urinary tract infections
Food doesn’t taste the same
Burning mouth or dry mouth
Dry hair and nails
Loss of hair
Worsening allergies
Recognize any of these signs or symptoms? Call our office for an appointment: 480.619.4097