How to Deal with Menopause

Menopause is the period of a woman's life when her hormone levels, specifically estrogen and testosterone, decrease. This is also the time when a woman stops menstruating. It may sound so simple to most of us but menopause also causes various physiological changes that are important for you to understand so you can prepare yourself properly before you reach this stage of life.

You'll know you have reached the menopausal stage when you haven't had your period for at least a year. The age range is usually between 48 and 55 years old. These menopausal symptoms are some of the physiological signs you have to watch out for. The key to dealing with menopause effectively is to be aware of its signs and symptoms.

• Menopausal hot flashes are common. As your body tries to adjust to low hormone levels, your body temperature may be thrown out of its normal range. Menopausal hot flashes are also the result of an increase in your body's metabolism.

• Weight gain, like hot flashes, is the result of hormone imbalance. During this period, your body will not be able to excrete water the same way as before. Water retention leads to weight gain.

• Changes in sleep pattern. Hot flashes, night sweats, cramps , anxiety and depression would greatly affect your sleep pattern.

• Mood swings. Hormones not only affect your body processes but also your mood. Hormone imbalance may cause you to be more irritable and emotional than you usually are.

• Dry spells and decreased sex drive. As estrogen decreases, your vagina will become dry, which can result in a decreased sex drive.

Menopause is a biological process. There is no way to stop it from happening but there are several things you can do to make this time of your life easier.

Hormone replacement therapy is a popular treatment to relieve menopausal symptoms caused by hormone imbalance. Antidepressants such as Paxil and Celexa may be prescribed by your doctor to relieve hot flushes. Your physician may also prescribe vaginal estrogen to relieve dryness and irritation.

The symptoms of menopause may also be relieved by making some lifestyle changes. As you grow older and your hormone levels decrease, it's very important to eat healthy and exercise regularly. This will keep your bones from getting weak and reduce your risk of fractures. Avoid bad habits like smoking and drinking too much caffeine. These are not only bad for your heart, they also worsen hot flushes. To improve your sleep pattern, avoid drinking caffeinated drinks late in the evenings. Learn some relaxation techniques and exercises you can do to prepare your body to sleep. Simple breathing exercises and a few minutes of yoga may help you sleep better at night.

Menopause is a part of life. It shouldn't stop you from living your life the way you want to. Understanding the changes you will experience and knowing how to deal with these changes will help you go through this stage easily.