Menopause: recognizing and treating symptoms

The menopause marks a natural phase in a woman’s life during which hormonal changes occur. This change can cause a variety of physical and psychological symptoms that vary from person to person. A comprehensive understanding of the menopause and its effects is crucial in order to find suitable treatment approaches and maintain quality of life.

Abstract

• The menopause is a natural phase of life with hormonal changes.
• Typical symptoms include hot flushes, sleep disorders and mood swings.
• Individual treatment can significantly improve the quality of life.

What is the menopause and when does it start?

The menopause usually begins between the ages of 45 and 55 and lasts for several years. During this time, the production of the female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone decreases, which can lead to various physical and emotional changes.

What symptoms occur during the menopause?

The symptoms of the menopause are diverse and can vary in intensity. The most common symptoms include

• Hot flushes and night sweats
• Sleep disorders and fatigue
• Mood swings and irritability
• Weight gain and changes in metabolism
• Dry skin and mucous membranes

These symptoms can have a significant impact on everyday life and should not be ignored.

What is the connection between the menopause and the thyroid gland?

Hormonal changes during the menopause can affect the function of the thyroid gland. A lack of oestrogen, for example, can impair thyroid hormone production, which can lead to hypothyroidism. Typical symptoms of an underactive thyroid such as tiredness, weight gain and depressive moods can overlap with menopausal symptoms. It is therefore important to have your thyroid function checked if you have symptoms.

Which medications help with menopausal symptoms?

The treatment of menopausal symptoms should be individually tailored to the woman’s needs. Possible drug therapies include:

• Hormone therapy (e.g. oestrogen or progestogen preparations)
• Herbal preparations (e.g. black cohosh, soy isoflavones)
• Non-hormonal medication (e.g. antidepressants for mood swings)

The choice of therapy should be made in consultation with a doctor in order to carefully weigh up the benefits and risks.

What role does lifestyle play during the menopause?

Many symptoms during the menopause can be positively influenced by a conscious lifestyle. In addition to possible support with medication, everyday life can also be organized in such a way that physical and emotional symptoms are alleviated. The following are particularly helpful:

• Exercise: Regular, moderate exercise such as walking, yoga or swimming can reduce hot flushes and promote emotional balance.
• Diet: A balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fiber and healthy fats supports the metabolism and prevents weight gain.
• Stress reduction: Breathing exercises, meditation or mindfulness help to combat inner restlessness and sleep problems.

Social contacts, exchanges with other sufferers and regular sleep routines are also important to stabilize mental well-being during this phase.

When should you seek medical help?

Not all menopausal symptoms need to be treated. However, if the symptoms severely affect your everyday life or last longer, a medical consultation is recommended. This applies in particular to

• Severe exhaustion or depressive moods
• Unclear weight fluctuations
• Frequent sleep disorders
• Suspicion of thyroid problems

A comprehensive hormone status and a thyroid examination provide information on whether drug support is advisable. Many sufferers find it relieving to receive a clear diagnosis – and a specific treatment plan.

Menopause and thyroid – why the interaction is so important

As both the female sex hormones and the thyroid gland have an influence on energy, psyche and metabolism, it is important to keep an eye on both areas in the event of symptoms. An untreated hypothyroidism can exacerbate menopausal symptoms – conversely, a hormonal change can mistakenly cause symptoms that