The symptoms of menopause vary from woman to woman and even from culture to culture. It’s interesting that this occurs and there are many things that play a role in what symptoms, if any, menopausal women experience. In fact, some researchers are concerned that culture plays a big role in the symptoms of menopause. For example, in cultures where growing older is respected and honored women experience fewer menopausal symptoms. However, in the west where the emphasis is mostly on youth and beauty women experience more symptoms of menopause. This could mean that there is a psychological role in symptoms, too. Another consideration for western women is their diet. Many women eat foods that are high in sugar, saturated fat, added hormones and antibiotics, and more unnatural additives. In addition many American women do not get enough exercise nor have many children, which could also play roles in menopausal symptoms.

Symptoms

You may have heard of common menopause symptoms like mood swings and hot flashes, however there are actually many other symptoms that are recognized as menopausal symptoms. Not only are their symptoms but there are changes and pains that many women experience. Menopausal symptoms include irregular periods, vaginal dryness, night sweats, reduced libido, fatigue, memory lapse, hair loss, concentration problems, problems sleeping, dizziness, allergies, incontinence, brittle nails, weight gain, irritability, depression, panic disorder, odor changes, headaches, itchy skin, digestive problems, muscle tension, headaches, osteoporosis, and more.

Of course, every menopausal woman will not experience every one of these symptoms. In fact, some women will have few if any symptoms at all. However, it’s not uncommon for menopausal women to experience many of the symptoms listed here at one time or another throughout the menopausal process.

All too often the symptoms women experience during menopause are mocked and considered laughable. However, women going through this change of life certainly do not enjoy the changes from hot flashes to migraines to mood swings and depression. It’s no fun and having the rest of the world take your symptoms lightly is not easy to deal with either.

Posted in Menopause

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