Going Through Menopause? These 5 Medical Conditions Could Be the Signs
Menopause is not simply a transition from menstruating to no longer menstruating. The change in hormones, as well as other alterations in the body, often lead to a variety of other symptoms and health conditions. This is because the amount of estrogen in the body drops significantly. If you think you are experiencing symptoms of a medical condition, you may want to think about whether these potential medical issues sound similar to your condition.
1. Lupus
Lupus is a serious health issue often triggered by hormonal changes. This condition includes symptoms like pain in the muscles, painful breathing, anemia, fatigue, fever, and hair loss. Many women may associate these symptoms with menopause and not realize the bigger implications.
2. Diabetes
When your estrogen levels are low, your body may also experience a change in cortisol, which is a stress hormone, and ghrelin, which is related to hunger. This causes your insulin levels to fluctuate. This means you might start to crave sweets more often. Symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, increased thirst, blurry vision, and fatigue.
3. Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer is more commonly found in women currently going through menopause or those who have already gone through menopause than in women who are pre-menopause. Uterine cancer must be treated, and so it is important that you recognize the symptoms early on. These symptoms may include pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, painful sexual intercourse, and weight loss.
4. Osteoporosis
After menopause, it is not uncommon for bone loss to occur quickly. Unfortunately, this means that you may be more likely to fall or experience bone injury. Doctors commonly encourage women to exercise and stay in shape after menopause to help avoid issues like this. Symptoms of osteoporosis include noticeable shortening or bone fractures. Unfortunately, many women do not realize that anything is wrong until something serious happens.
5. Hypertension
When your cholesterol levels increase, you are at higher risk of hypertension. You may be experiencing hypertension if you have had a heart attack or stroke recently. There are often no signs of hypertension, and the condition requires a doctor's examination to be sure.
Medical conditions often coincide with menopause—but this is often not merely coincidence. If you are going through menopause or begin to see symptoms of any of these conditions, it is important that you receive medical care to ensure that all your bases are covered. The earlier you start, the better. If you do realize you have a medical condition because of an incident, be sure to seek appropriate medical care, such as at an urgent-care center.