Menopause Symptoms screening

Understanding Symptoms by Hormonal Deficiencies

Menopause therapy requires a comprehensive assessment of symptoms, categorized by the hormonal deficiencies they are associated with. Below, we break down these symptoms based on deficiencies in estrogen, progesterone, and androgen/testosterone.

Symptoms of Estrogen Deficiency:

• Menstrual Changes: Diminished or absent menstrual bleeding.
• Headaches: Migraines during menstruation.
• Vasomotor Symptoms: Hot flashes, sensations of heat rising, and excessive sweating.
• Cardiac Discomfort: Palpitations, tachycardia, irregular heartbeat, and chest tightness.
• Mucous Membrane Dryness: Dryness in the eyes, mouth, and vagina, leading to vaginal burning and discomfort during intercourse.
• Dermatological Changes: Hair loss and the appearance of wrinkles.
• Musculoskeletal Pain: Joint and muscle pain similar to rheumatic discomfort.
• Mental Health: Depression, persistent fatigue, low energy, and reduced resilience, especially during physical exertion.
• Libido: Reduced sexual desire.
• Urinary Issues: Difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and involuntary urine leakage.

Symptoms of Progesterone Deficiency:

• Premenstrual Symptoms: Headaches or migraines before menstruation.
• Breast Pain: Painful breast swelling.
• Edema: Swelling of the abdomen, hands, and feet before menstruation.
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Emotional and physical symptoms occurring before menstruation.
• Menstrual Changes: Heavy or excessive menstrual bleeding.
• Sleep Disturbances: Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up too early.
• Mental Health: Anxiety, irritability, and depressive moods characterized by hopelessness, sadness, tearfulness, lack of motivation, and mood swings.
• Nervousness: Increased irritability, internal tension, and occasional aggressiveness.

Symptoms of Androgen/Testosterone Deficiency:

• Fatigue: Physical and mental exhaustion, decreased overall performance.
• Cognitive Issues: Memory loss, concentration difficulties, and forgetfulness.
• Emotional Sensitivity: Increased emotionality and hypersensitivity to stress.
• Confidence Issues: Diminished self-confidence.
• Muscle Mass Loss: Loss of muscle mass, reduced muscle strength, and general muscle weakness.
• Hair Loss: Loss of pubic and underarm hair.
• Sexual Health: Changes in sexual desire, activity, and satisfaction.
• Hot Flashes: Similar to those caused by estrogen deficiency.
• Anovulatory Bleeding: Spotting between normal periods as menopause approaches.
• Psychological Complaints:
  • Emotional Changes: Nervousness, anxiety, and sadness caused by physical and emotional changes during menopause.
  • Depressive Moods: Including irritability, fatigue, reduced concentration, and aggression. These should not be confused with clinical depression.
  • Mood Swings: Estrogen deficiency often leads to mood swings, and hormone replacement therapy can improve mood for many women.

Vaginal Symptoms:

• Itching and Burning: Often caused by estrogen deficiency, resulting in dry mucous membranes and discomfort during intercourse.
• Vaginal Dryness: Can contribute to painful intercourse and frequent infections.

Oral and Ocular Symptoms:

• Dry Mucous Membranes: Estrogen decline can cause dryness in the mouth and eyes, leading to oral inflammation and discomfort with dentures or contact lenses.

Conclusion

Managing menopause symptoms effectively requires a personalized and holistic approach. Addressing hormonal deficiencies with tailored treatments can significantly improve the quality of life for women going through menopause. Consultation with healthcare professionals ensures appropriate screening and the development of individualized treatment plans to restore balance and alleviate discomfort.