SURVIVING MENOPAUSE (Who Turned Up the Heat?) Part 3 ~ Practical Ways to Help Your Symptoms

In this article we will discuss ways other than hormone treatment that can help your menopausal symptoms.

OTHER WAYS TO HELP YOUR SYMPTOMS

• Hot Flashes ~ A hot environment, eating or drinking hot or spicy foods, alcohol, or caffeine, and stress can bring on hot flashes. Try to avoid these triggers. Dress in layers and keep a fan in your home or workplace. Regular exercise might also bring relief from hot flashes and other symptoms. Ask your doctor about taking an antidepressant medicine. There is proof that these medicines can be helpful for some women.

• Vaginal Dryness. Use an over-the-counter vaginal lubricant. There are also prescription estrogen replacement creams that your doctor might give you. If you have spotting or bleeding while using estrogen creams, you should see your doctor.

• Problems Sleeping~ One of the best ways to get a good night's sleep is to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week however, avoid a lot of exercise close to bedtime. Also avoid alcohol, caffeine, large meals, and working right before bedtime. You might want to drink something warm, such as herb tea or warm milk. Try to keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature. Avoid napping during the day and try to go to bed and get up at the same times every day. Natural sleep aids are also available.

• Memory Problems~ Ask your doctor about mental exercises you can do to improve your memory. Try to get enough sleep and be physically active.

• Mood Swings~ Try to get enough sleep and be physically active. Ask your doctor about relaxation exercises you can do. Ask your doctor about taking an antidepressant medicine. There is proof that these can be helpful. Think about going to a support group for women who are going through the same things as you, or consider counseling to talk through your problems and fears. Share with a trusted friend.

These practical methods along with the help and advise of your health care professional should help you through this time.

Stay tuned for Part 4 ~ Healthy Living During Menopause

Part 1 -"What's it All About Anyway"

Part 2- "Treatments for Menopause"

Part 3- "Practical Ways to Help your Symptoms"

Part 4 ~ "Healthy Living During Menopause"

To your Continued Health and Success

Miss Julia

juliagrayonline.com