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Are Prolonged Periods, Tiredness And Headaches Signs Of Peri Menopause?
Question: I am 49 years old. I think I am going through peri menopause. My periods are lasting weeks. I feel very tired and i can't go through an exercise class without having to stop. Sometimes I get a headache afterward. How long does this go on? Is there anything I can do to help myself feel better? I gave a kidney last year so I am scared to eat too much meat for iron.
Brief Answer:
Suggested course of action.
Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for trusting us with your health concern.
Yes, the symptoms are those of peri menopause.
Yes, a lot can be done for you.
First of all, the diagnosis of perimenopause can be confirmed.
Please get these blood tests done - Serum estradiol, FSH.
Then you would also need a pelvic ultrasound scan and a Pap smear and internal gynec exam.
This helps to rule out any other reasons for your prolonged periods - such as a polyp, fibroid, cervical lesion etc.
Once perimenopause is confirmed , you can be offered cyclical hormonal therapy by your gynec to help with your symptoms.
That will take of your periods and other symptoms until you ease off into total menopause.
Meanwhile, focus on limited exercise and more of stretching, yoga, meditation etc.
Menopause is as much of an upheaval to your body, as menarche was.
But remember, it is all a phase, and will soon pass off.
Sometimes, it may take months to years, so you definitely need to do more than just wait and tolerate what you are going through.
Get your blood levels checked for hemoglobin, thyroid function, calcium and vitamin D levels.
You need to eat better - more green and fresh.
Exercise in moderation atleast 5 days a week.
Keep yourself fully hydrated.
Get the work up done as suggested and you can revert to me accordingly.
All the best.
PLease feel free to discuss further.
Suggested course of action.
Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for trusting us with your health concern.
Yes, the symptoms are those of peri menopause.
Yes, a lot can be done for you.
First of all, the diagnosis of perimenopause can be confirmed.
Please get these blood tests done - Serum estradiol, FSH.
Then you would also need a pelvic ultrasound scan and a Pap smear and internal gynec exam.
This helps to rule out any other reasons for your prolonged periods - such as a polyp, fibroid, cervical lesion etc.
Once perimenopause is confirmed , you can be offered cyclical hormonal therapy by your gynec to help with your symptoms.
That will take of your periods and other symptoms until you ease off into total menopause.
Meanwhile, focus on limited exercise and more of stretching, yoga, meditation etc.
Menopause is as much of an upheaval to your body, as menarche was.
But remember, it is all a phase, and will soon pass off.
Sometimes, it may take months to years, so you definitely need to do more than just wait and tolerate what you are going through.
Get your blood levels checked for hemoglobin, thyroid function, calcium and vitamin D levels.
You need to eat better - more green and fresh.
Exercise in moderation atleast 5 days a week.
Keep yourself fully hydrated.
Get the work up done as suggested and you can revert to me accordingly.
All the best.
PLease feel free to discuss further.
Note: Revert back with your gynae reports to get a clear medical analysis by our expert Gynecologic Oncologist. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Sonia Raina
Answered by
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