Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => Personal Experiences => Topic started by: Dr. Heather Currie on January 03, 2007, 05:11:08 PM
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Hot flushes
The hot flush, or flash, is well known as the classic menopausal symptom and affects 60–85% of menopausal women. Hot flushes and sweats are called vasomotor symptoms and vary immensely in both their severity and duration; for many women, they occur occasionally and do not cause much distress, but for about 20% they can be severe and can cause significant interference with work, sleep and quality of life. Women are affected by vasomotor symptoms on average for about 2 years but, for about 10%, symptoms can continue for more than 15 years.
Hot flushes usually last 3–5 minutes and are thought to be caused by a change in the temperature-controlling part of the brain.Normally, there is a daily pattern of rises and falls in your body temperature, being lowest at about 3am and highest in the early evening. These small changes are not normally noticed, but a menopausal woman may flush with every temperature rise, whether these are normal changes or not – for example, moving between areas of different temperature or having a hot drink – because of a change in the setting of the temperature control centre in your brain; your body thinks that it is overheating even when it isn't. To try to cool your body down, a variety of chemical reactions cause the blood vessels in the skin to open up, giving the sensation of a rush of heat, and sweat glands release sweat to dissipate heat.
It is believed that the changes in various hormone levels that occur around the time of the menopause, lead to the change in the setting of the temperature control centre, but the exact underlying mechanism is still unclear.
Other factors that can also cause flushes include being overweight, alcohol, excess caffeine, spicy foods, monosodium glutamate and some medications. Eating a healthy diet and losing weight if necessary can be helpful. Other simple measures that can help include:
• wearing cotton clothing rather than man-made fibres
• wearing loose thin layers of clothing rather than thick tight-fitting clothes
• keeping your bedroom temperature fairly cool at night – either leave a door or window open or consider a fan (partner permitting of course!).
Flushes affect every woman differently and, for many, no specific treatments will be required. When flushes are embarrassing, disruptive and affecting your quality of life, then help is available and your doctor will give you an individualised treatment plan – we are all unique!
Headaches, palpitations (sensation of heart racing) and dizziness can be associated with vasomotor symptoms. Excess caffeine can worsen palpitations, so take coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks in moderation.
Tell us what works for you.
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:) :)
After 18 months of hot flushes which were becoming unbearable,I tried HRT this turned me into a depressed gibbering wreck - I tried 2 different sorts and never want to feel like that again, In fact I was prescribed anti-depressants to get me back to 'normal' (whatever that is in the menopause!!!) That sorted the misery, but still several hot flushes a day and about 5 or 6 night sweats which woke me up every night I was beginning to feel at my wits end!!! I must admit I would try anything which will
a) SHIFT WRINKLES
OR
b) STOP MY MENO SYMPTOMS
It would not matter how ridiculous it is, I am there, headstands in the local park/ice cold showers/ tap dancing naked in the high street - I'd try it just to feel better!!
HOWEVER!!! a friend of mine recommended high strength (1000mg) starflower oil capsules ;D ;D ;D IT HAS WORKED!!! I AM SO HAPPY I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO!!! Down to about 1 flush a day and that is only if I am flustered!! Now sleeping almost through the night!!
I know each of us are different, and it may not work for everyone, but after about 10 days I really noticed the difference and a month later all is still well!
l would also like to say that reading this forum has helped me enormously, and thank you to all you lovely ladies who have made me realise I am not alone... It has been a real turning point. Thanks once again xx
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Hot flushes/sweats have totally taken over my life 'at least thats what it feels like' i get no sleep, cannot sit in company without getting up every 30-40mins, and i am only just coping with my job, i suffer from Arthritis, so having to get somewhere cold to cool down, is making this worse, and i now have joint pain everywhere, taking 6 anti-inflammatory tabs a day, but only getting slight relief, had the sweats now for nearly 5yrs, so i hope, i am not one of the unlucky one's, to get them for 15yrs :'( :'(
Star i will try oil capsules, i have tried everything else, without success, but willing to give everything a go..and may i add, i really feel for any other member suffering these, plus panic attacks, depression etc: my hearts goes out to you :-* Glad the forum is back so we can express our selves again, and know we are not alone....x
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I find HRT wonderful and am lucky I can take it. I reduced the dose last year but had to go back to the 2 mg dose as hot flushes and nightsweats came back with a vengance. I only have two coffees a day now in the morning and then no more caffeine for the rest of the day. I find that if I have caffeine after midday I have very disturbed sleep and can wake up with palpitations. I have cut down on red wine (my favourite tipple). I find that I can drink either one or two glasses for roughly 18 days of my cycle. But when I start on the combined bit of the HRT red wine really effects me. I have disturbed sleep with nightsweats and palpitations. I also find that a calcium/magnesium supplement taken in the evening with a banana also helps me sleep better.
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I've just found this site and the forum - thank goodness. I believe I've just started the menopause as I've experienced the night sweats for the last 10 days with just one or two days of daytime hot flushes. Waking four or five times a night is not doing me any good at all - I look as if I haven't slept for months. My husband won't sleep with the window open - "its winter for goodness sake, who has the window open in the middle of winter? Are you mad?" Tonight I'm sleeping in the spare room with the window WIDE open...
I saw the post re Starflower Oil and will definitely try it. I've always thought I would try to get thru the menopause as naturally as possible without resorting to pills, etc but after the last 10 days, I shall be going to the doctor tomorrow to see what options there are. The very thought that this could last for 2, 5 or 15 years is too hard to believe. And my husband agrees!
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HRT has worked for me - the hot flushes and night sweats disappeared in about 10 days - other symptoms have taken longer and I still get some of them with varying degrees of intensity depending on where my hormones are (my periods are still very erratic). I am taking what is called bioidentical hrt - in my case Hormonin - which is the oestrogen element - and utrogestan - which is the progesterone. However latter not available on NHS (at least not in my area) here so I have to have a private prescription but actually bought is in Paris where is it available and hugely cheaper than here.
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Hi :)
When I first started getting hot flushes I actually quite liked them. It turned out I was hypothyroid and usually suffered horribly from the cold so warming up felt quite good.
Then I was put on the right medication for the thyroid. Hot flushes turned into heat intolerance and also became a lot more uncomfortable. Night sweats kicked in big time - except without nearly as much sweat as most because I also have something called Sjogren's Syndrome which dries me up too much. So I guess its nightime overheating every two hours or so. I haven't had a full nights sleep for about 3 years now.
Because of the autoimmune diseases I didn't want to take HRT. There are a lot of overlapping symptoms and I wanted to get menopause symptoms out of the way - and not prolong them. I thought I was getting through it. I haven't had a period for over two years now and the hot spells seemed to have been lessening. However, recently they're back with a vengeance. A frioend in another forum has suggested it might be autonomic neuropathy as now I just seem to heat up from the chest upwards and only my head really gets damp. On the other hand, i've just read that sweats can last for 15 years - so I'm no further forward.................
I sympathise with everyone going through them though.
Take care - Scottie :)
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I have been on Femal for about 3 weeks now & they seem to have helped, I was getting about 6 - 7 hot flushes at night & about 10 during the day. I am also taking St Johns Wort for depression as I went to my doctor (a lady) & described all the signs of the menopause, flushes, unable to concentrate, tearful, tiredness etc & do you know what the ONLY thing she suggested??? anti-depressants... I could not believe it, I asked about HRT but she said there are too many risks, I was devastated to think I would be on anti-depressants for at least 6 months. I still have the prescription in my purse but really do not want to go down that road so I am trying the herbal products. This is my first posting on this site but you all see to be friendly girls. I lost my Mum last year & do not really have anyone to chat about it too, having said that I have a wonderful husband whio is always willing to give me a cuddle when I am feeling down.
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Dear Cazikins
Go and see another Dr -- I too had this response - again and again and again. I feel so angry about it. In the end I went to see someone privately - I was so desparate and decided that I'd rather have my health back than my savings.
Best wishes
Annie
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Thanks Annie, when things get bad again I will see a different doctor, I just feel that I am wasting the doctors time when I go & that they dont really want to help - its like they are saying "for goodness sake just get on with it" - I get so angry but at the same time I dont have the energy to have a discussion with them - by the way what are you taking to help? what did your doctor suggest & does it work?
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Sorry Annie, just read a previous post from you regarding what you take...silly so & so I am.
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Hi!I'm 52 and had hot flushes for three years...night sweats for 5 years.No periods for 2 years.I tried everything I could get hold of,all the herbal treatments cost me a fortune....stopped smoking not because of flushes but it is supposed to make them worse...didnt help but I havent had a fag for almost 11 months.Tried breathing slowly with the flush...couldnt keep it up,thought i would explode!If I got one night where I could sleep more than a couple of hours and then not have sweat after sweat.Awful.Finally went back to doctor and tried HRT,Kliovance.It worked wonderfully apart from I kept having breakthrough bleeds.So now am trying Kliofem.I was half mad too much of the time and my quality of life had deteriated so much that my total distrust of HRT didnt seem to matter anymore.Its worked for me and I am extremely grateful.It wouldnt be so bad if i could have seen any kind of hope of the flushes stopping,I couldnt have gone on much longer.
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I'm 51 and started with hot flushes about 6 months ago. However about 3 months ago they became almost unbearable - I was getting them about every 20mins or so and they seem to last for ages.
I started to take Menopace about 2 months ago and they have all but disappeared. I get the odd one every so often but it is only mild. I don't know whether this is a co-incidence or it's the Menopace working and I don't know if they'll return with a vengence. I suppose only time will tell.
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Hi Cazikins :)
Sorry to hear you are going through the mill at the moment. (Know how that feels)
Was really interested in reading about the femal, was wondering how would you gauge the reduction of the flushes/sweats since you commenced on it and how long it was before you noticed a difference?
I see you got one of those really sympathetic female doctors (LOL) ;D Don't worry her words will come back to haunt her one day, probably when she has just suffered her umpteenth night sweat! >:D
Well of course there are drawbacks to HRT, but these need to be kept in context and of course each person presenting is unique and has a unique medical history as to if one should or indeed should not take HRT. To just write it off like this doesn't seem particularly helpful, maybe you can see another doctor in the practice? Is this possible?
All the symptoms you have talked about can be part and parcel of menopause. I agree with you about the antidepressants, if they do not feel right for you at this stage then if I were you then I would hold off from taking them. You do not mention which anti-D's you have been prescribed, but just like HRT and just like any other prescribed medication you can get unwanted side effects from them.
If it is of any consolation I cannot take HRT due to controlled hypertension and a couple of other conditions I have and I have managed to get through this past couple of years without it and apart from some stress in my life at the moment and these flaming flushes and insomnia, then I do feel a lot stronger than I did and certainly am much improved on where I was 18 months ago. So please don't despair it *does* get better. I am so sorry to hear about your mum and know how much this can effect you, but I want to reassure you here also that this does get easier too, oh of course you never stop remembering (but why would you?) and they crop up in your mind at odd times, but the pain of loss gets easier and then you gradually begin to realise that the memories are happy and this in itself helps us to get over the physical loss. I have a photo of my parents on my mantle piece and I talked to her, I talk to her when I am sad, when I am worried, when I am happy, I tell her off for not being here to help me with her grandchildren, I have a small vase and put flowers in it for her and my dad, you may think I am barking but all of this really does help. My partner He Who Must Be Obeyed (HWMBO for short LOL) is quite used to me doing this and thinks it is quite normal. LOL
You are going to be just fine Cazikins, honestly you are ,just remember you are NOT alone, NOT going mad and that you always have a place to come to to talk, laugh or let off steam..here... with us at anytime you feel like it and it sounds like you have a really lovely caring husband which is fantastic. You *will* get through this, honestly you will, we *all* will, meanwhile we all have each to help us through. :)
Hi Ju ju, :) So glad you are now beginning to feel better on HRT, I think this is so important that the positives of HRT are also spoken about as well as the negatives. Knowledge is power and the more we know about something the better able we are to make an informed decision for our-self.
Onwards and Upwards ladies :) :) :)
Love Pops xxx ;D ;D ;D
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My way of trying to control the flushes is eliminating all caffeine (giving up chocolates was so difficult for me!), exercising on a regular basis, dressing with layers of cotton clothes instead of one heavier sweater, wearing clothes not too close or tight to the neck, not drinking hot drinks or hot soups too quickly or too late in the day (I find they are fine at lunch time but I can not have soup with supper or flushes are sure to follow, not sure if this is because my body is more tired as the day progresses or what, but I find this helps me).
I also find that eating larger meals brings the flushes back so I try to eat 4 or 5 smaller meals through my day (one meal might be a glass of milk with a banana, another meal could be a piece of whole wheat bread with homemade jam, etc.) Keeps my blood sugar leveled and less flushes that way.
I keep a fan on low speed on my side of the bed, keeps air moving around my body and also helps me get to sleep by covering noises (the constant humming of the fan is somewhat soothing when I can not sleep)
I only use cotton bedsheets and wash them every day so they always feel fresh and inviting at bedtime.
I live in Canada so for quite a few months of the year, I can not sleep with a window opened as snow comes in, but otherwise, I find fresh air also helps a lot.
I wash completely with a cool washcloth before bed but I do not dry my body so I feel quite refreshed before trying to fall asleep. Night sweats are worse so I do all I can to minimize those.
I do not drink any alcohol nor do I smoke but I know my 2 sisters have both found their flushes greatly diminished when they stopped smoking and when they do not drink. (they have recently come out the other side of their meno journey and survived it all!!!)
I try not to exercise past 4:00 PM or I get more flushes. I do not eat anything at all after 7:00 PM and that helps too. Whenever we have company and I vary my routine and eat after 7, or eat more, or eat spicy foods, I always have more flushes. I try sticking to drinking water only in the evening (but then I have to pee all night!!!) :P
I have noticed that the week I should be having a period (I don't have them all the time anymore), I have more flushes, so by keeping track on a calendar, it makes it easier for me to not cheat on what I have found works for me.
Best wishes everyone.
Claire in Canada :)
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Hi Poppyrose & thanks for your kind words - about everything. The doctor prescribed an anti depressant called Venlafaxine HydrochlorideM/R capsules 75mg to be taken once per day, I had to have an ECG first to check my heart was ok, which it was so there was some good news. The Femal tablets started to help the hot flushes within about 2 weeks but I am wondering if this is because I have had some light spotting for the last week (my hot flushes seem to stop when this happens unlike Claire in Canada), I just hope that it is not a red herring. I will be 50 in July this year OH NO...& am not sure how far through the tunnel I am" as my periods have been irregular for abut 2 years now, but the flushes have been more frequent in the last 7-8 months or so, also late in 2005 I had a D & C & also had the Mirena coil fitted which has a hormone in it which is supposed to help with the meno's. My dear Mum died on 05/02/05 so coming up to the anniversary, I was with her when she passed away it was very peaceful but as she had been suffering from dementia for 3 years previousley it feels like you couldn't really say goodbye, but I think she knew we were all with her. I have a wonderful husband & we have been married for 4 years, I am lucky to have a "toyboy" husband (he is 41) & he certainly keeps me on my toes & feeling young..... Thanks again for your help & kind words I know it is not going to be easy but knowing I am not the only one certainly helps.
Love Caz
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Hi poppy yes I am much improved!The GP I see is not the one I'm registered with and I saw her by mistake!I havent lived here for long.She is in her 50s and just helped me so much.When I see her its usually her last appointment on Friday and she always thanks me for cheering her up because I'm so positive.Its only because I feel wonderful in comparison to how I was and if I hadnt seen her who knows what might have happened?xx
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Pleased to say ladies, my hot sweats are still on the decline, really hope this is not a 'flash' in the pan :(
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I have just found your site and its so nice to read about other peoples experiences and to know you are not alone! I have been having night sweats for about six months now and I feel exhausted with them, I'm so tired. I have the odd one in the daytime but later at night they start and continue until morning. I am very interested in the starflower oil capsules and think I will give them a try, a trip to the health shop feels daunting with all the different things to try you don't know where to start.
Thank you so much Starflower ;) you have made my day!!
Shauny
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Hi Shauny ;D
:welcomemm:
So glad you found us and I hope this is the first of many posts and now that you have found us you need never feel alone again. :D We are always here for each other and the support is unconditional.
I know these sweats can be really draining, it is not necessarily just the sweats is it? It is what accompanies them that can be equally as bad. I too have been suffering from them badly and evening seems to be the time when they get worse too.
I am glad you are going to try the Starflower that Starflower :D has recommeded because I believe it really has helped me and it had done it quickly too. Although I have been taking menocool and using Natural Progesterone cream too, it wasn't until I commenced the Starflower that I saw a big drop in flushes and other vasomotor symptoms ie increased heart rate, skin ****ling/crawling. I am hoping that as time goes on that it will improve further (wish we had a smiley with his fingers crossed!) ;)
Please let us know how you are getting on and I hope you manage to get some relief too.
Lots of Love Pops xxx :peace::peace::peace:
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:scottie: ;D ;D
Hi Shauney!!
Just a note to say good luck with the starflower oil!! I hope you have the success with it that myself and Pops have experienced. I must say the longer I take it the better I feel!
Just waiting for the libido to gallop into action and all will be well!!
starflower x
PS so is my other half!
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Hi everyone. My hot flushes have diminished since taking HRT. After about three/four days I certainly felt so much better. I have a spinal problem and have to take morphine everyday morning and night and I always thought it was when my back pain was so bad it made me sweat like mad.
Since taking HRT i feel so much better and the hot flushes seem to have gone. I get very hot in bed at night and have to sleep on top of the bed which anoys my husband who curls up in the quilt, but i can cope with that.
I had a hystorectomy when i was 34 i am now 54 and i thought that i would not have the menopause as bad as this. Mood swings the feeling that life is not worth living so on.... Does any one know how long all this lasts for or is it just different for everyone!
Does certain medication make the menopause worse!
I would appreciate any help that anyone can offer.
chris
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Hi Chris
I had a hystorectomy when i was 34 i am now 54 and i thought that i would not have the menopause as bad as this. Mood swings the feeling that life is not worth living so on.... Does any one know how long all this lasts for or is it just different for everyone!
Does certain medication make the menopause worse!
I'm sorry that you are going through this, I know it is hard to make sense of it all sometimes. I too had an early hysterectomy and I too thought menopause? What menopause? I thought if you didn't give in to things then you would not suffer the symptoms (then I woke up LOL)
Unfortunately no one can say how long all this will last as each one of us is different and each one of us will adjust differently to decreasing hormone production. But Chris, one thing for sure is that it is *not* going to last forever, we all of us *will* get through this. I try not to think about how long it is all going to last as I find it depressing, as I cannot do anything or even judge it I refuse to give it head room ;) For one thing who is to say that you will not be one of those ladies that will go through quickly? It happens a lot more than you think it does.
Morphine is from a group of medications called opioids. One of the side effects of morphine is that it can cause histamine release, which causes itching of the skin and nose and a flushing of the skin, so I would say that this medication could have an effect on menopausal symptoms. Probably the best person to ask about this would be your doctor.
With regard to the quilt problem at night, have you thought about using two single quilts on the bed instead of one? This way your hubby can have a heavier tog and you a light one, if you got identical quilt covers then it would hardly notice in the day, or you could cover them with a bedspread/throw, I have thought about stitching two different tog quilts together so I could have the lighter and he the heavier. I do have the two single quilts on the bed though as I just cannot bear heavy covers on myself.
Mood swings are part and parcel of the menopause for *some*, I know this is a real hard one to get a grip of. If I feel one coming on (and I normally can) then I revert to breathing exercises and breathe my way through it and the feelings causing the mood swing start to lessen, if I can I will also remove myself from the situation which is causing them. It isn't easy, sometimes it is jolly hard, but it is obtainable. I also find that explaining why something has really upset me at a calm time to someone is beneficial and can help diffuse a situation before it gets out of control. I know sometimes when I have snapped I have seen the total look of bewilderment on my partner's face, so if I do not actually tell him what the problem is then he is never going to know and is like to keep repeating it.
The unpleasant feeling of thinking that life was not worth living is yet another reaction to decreasing hormone production, it is another symptom of menopause called 'gloom and doom'. You are not alone Chris many of us suffer with some degrees of this, from mild to severe. I had it and it got so badly I ended up suffering some unpleasant panic attacks. One of the most important things you can do for yourself if you do find yourself thinking like this is to actually recognise these feelings for what they actually are and once you do this you start to remove the fear from them and then you can start to get yourself out of it. I cannot say how much deep slow breathing can restore you and if you let it, it can do it quickly too. I did not want to take anti-depressants, for me it wasn't an option as ultimately I knew these feelings and recognised them for what they were and so did not think that anti-depressants would help me as I knew that at some point it was only me that would be able to get myself out of this. however, if you are feeling like this then I would advise that you have a chat with your doctor, I know it isn't easy and you probably do not want to, but please talk to someone if you think these feelings are getting out of control and don't forget you *always* have us on here, ready to help support you. (((Chris)))
Reading a little of what you have been through this past few years and now coupled with the menopause I am not surprised you feel like this sometimes, but you are not alone, we do understand where yo are coming from and a lot of us have been there before you, the upshot of this of course is that we have been through it and can categorically tell you that this does get better too. :)
You say you are taking HRT? I am wondering how long you have been on it and if it is worth you popping along to your doctor, the dosage may need tweaking or reviewing and this may be all that is required to help you get back on an even keel.
Meanwhile remember that you are *not* alone and we are all here to support you. Chin up :-* :-* :-*
Lots of Love Pops xxx :peace::peace::peace:
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Hi Poppyrose & Starflower,
Just wanted to say thanks for the support, its nice to know there are others out there when you need some support and a kind word and now I don't have to bore my better half with my symptoms, if only they knew!!
I will let you know how I go on with the starflower tablets, fingers crossed.
:thankyou:
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Hi there,
I found this forum last week and have found it really helpful. I am 54 yrs old and plodded on with night flushes (not sweats as such), poor memory and concentration for 18 months, I tried various alternatives but nothing really helped, in the end I conceded defeat and my GP started me on a low dose of HRT, this helped with the 6 trips to the loo every night (down to twice/night), but I was still wandering around in short sleeves when everyone else was in 2 layers of clothing. The dose was increased and the symptoms improved but along came the aching joints, and quite severe fluid retention, I was unable to wear most of my footwear and overall I had gained nearly a stone in weight despite making an effort to be careful. My GP changed me from tablets to patches and reduced the dose, lo and behold, the night flushes came back, but the fluid retention significantly improved. Last week I spoke to a pharmacist friend and he suggested I stop, I know that HRT is very helpful for loads of ladies and that is brilliant, but it just doesn't seem to be for me. Having read this forum last week I went out and bought some Starrflower Oil, the health shop assistant was very knowledgable, she suggested I use a high dose (3000mgs) to start with and lower it later as it may interfere with the balance of Omega 3. I have lost 5lbs weight in a week ! yes! the joint aches have gone and I have not been aware of any night flush for 4 nights! I really wasn't expecting any result for a few weeks, but I feel a big improvement, it's wonderful, long may it last. Thank you for all the comments on the forum, they have been a big encouragement.
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Hi Dibley ;D
:welcomemm: Sorry I am late welcoming you. :foryou:
I read your post with great interest, you are right of course while HRT is great for some it is not too good for others, just like any natural remedy too. For some it just takes time and trial and error and for others, they just hit on something immediately which helps them, just goes to prove what unique individuals we all are. :) :) :)
I was particularly interested in reading your experiences with Starflower Oil.
Starflower ( another lady who posts on here) has been taking these for some time and was so impressed she told us all about them on here, thank goodness she did too (((Starflower :-*))). I decided to give them a go, wasn't expecting much as I am one of these people that nothing seems to work or it works for a short length of time then stops working. Within a short space of time I noticed a reduction in my flushes and night sweats and have not yet been taking it for that long, so as time progresses I hope it may help a little more as it gets into my system properly.
The past few days I have noticed that my flushes are increasing again *but* I do not think this is the fault of the Starflower oil, I think it has more to do with the fact that I have been under an incredible amount of strain and have not been eating or sleeping properly and *stress* is a HUGE factor to us in perimenopause. Even so, I find that I have been able to cope fairly well and wonder if this also has something to do with this Starflower oil too?
Hope you continue to feel well and please keep us all informed as to how you are doing and look forward to reading more posts from you whenever you feel like it.
It is so important to have a balance on the forum, it gives much hope and encouragement to other ladies that have been knocked sideways by the start of menopause. :)
Lots of Love Pops xxx :peace::peace::peace:
ha ha ha, this just made me laugh!
Just read this by Rosebush - Sorry I fell in late (It's my age you know! ::) :P LOL)
Re: Tell us how you have coped with FLUSHES
« Reply #17 on: January 17, 2007, 11:23:53 PM » Quote
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Pleased to say ladies, my hot sweats are still on the decline, really hope this is not a 'flash' in the pan
Very droll Rosebush LOL
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Hi All
As I am taking HRT I have been avoiding most of the menopausal sypmtoms. Although just before my 'period' I have one or two night sweats. Of late the number of days I experienced these have increased. I had seen adverts for a duvet which cools and warms, called Climarelle. It gave an explanation that it contained these tiny beads which liquify and absorb the heat when you become hot, throwing it back out later when you cooled down.
Well I could not believe the amount of night sweats and the length of them, I think the duvet went into a meltdown overload. In my soporific stupor I thought if I throw it off then when I recover my cold skin it is going to disperse all of this heat so I just lay sweating, I kept it on for 2 weeks before throwing it onto the spare bed!
Anyway I complained and got the reply it does not work for everyone (and of course as usual I am the only person ever to complain) . However my point was that it should not have an 'adverse' reaction and it was extremely expensive.
My husband really liked it, to be fair it was cosy and they did offer me my money back.
I was concerned that it was been marketed to cool as well as warm and there are are a lot of desperate hot women out there, that may think this is the answer to there prayers
I really hoped they were going to come back and give me advice of how I could make it work.
I know there is another product called Chillow, I don't know if anyone else has tried any products like this.
Love
Flutterby :)
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Hi Flutterby ;D
Well funny you should mention this product, someone told me about this on here I can't remember who it was, I am really sorry it is my meno-smog and stress overload and I can't remember, I really don't mean to be rude. :-*
I was thinking of getting one of them, now I don't know whether to chance it or not. :-\ :-\ :-\
The chillow, my fab son-in-law bought me one of these, but it doesn't really work for me either! You have to activate it by tipping water inside it! Have you tried a small Marks and Sparks hand held fan by the bed, they have a little stand attached to it so you can either hold it or stand it. They are the most powerful little fans that I have come across to date and they are my little helper's, I just could not manage without them. I have one by the bed, and one in each of my handbags and one in the kitchen and one in the lounge. I have a desk fan in my office so don't need one there, but they really cool me down quickly. My grandchildren love them too, they can't hurt them as the blades are soft plastic and it amuses them. I found one from my local chemist that has lights on and when it is spinning the lights make all kinds of different pictures, it looks like an electric kaleidoscope! (I love it too LOL) ::)
Why is it that all these products promise the earth and very rarely deliver? I wonder how they can claim this? How would they work for some people and not for others, I wonder? doesn't seem right to me, but maybe I am becoming very cynical as well as grumpy? >:(
Lots of Love Pops xxx :peace::peace::peace:
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Hi Pops :)
It helps knowing there are other cynical (or shall we say intelligent ladies who question) around.
Mind you I am also grumpy sometimes.
I am now trying sage leaf 300mg 3x a day, would be interested to know how long it took other users to get some relief
Love
Flutterby
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The Climarelle products, yes that was me, saw them in an article in the paper. Glad now I didn't buy any as you say it's very expensive. Welcome the forum BTW Flutteryby, you too Dibly :welcomemm:
Chris :)
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My hot flushes were also truly awful :(.
I started using A vegitarian omega supplement because of my terrible loss of memory and mixing my words up.
This had me really worried for a while. I thought it might be the beginning of alzeimers.
It also used to make me very cross that my family used to take the mikey and for a while I could not see the funny side of my mistakes.
Thankfully these supps have not only improved my memory but have also controlled the flushes.
I have gone from 5-8 Whoppa's a day down to 1-2 a week. Which is much better to cope with.
I am also at the tender age of 46 learning to drive and am doing much better than my last attempt. Where I couldnt remember my right from left or what a gear stick was for. lol ;D
Best wishes
Welshcake
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i get through the very hot nights by using a chillow pillow, they are fantastic , i`d thoroughly recommend them.just type it into any search engine.
and wear lots of thin cotton layers , particularly in the summer, which means lots of cold showers as well mind, and lots of `spare `clothes , oh and extra washing of course, oh such is life...alison.
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um... see that link at the top of the page that says 'shop' - well, we got chillows n stuff there.
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I have just found this website.
Regrettably I am not coping with day and night sweats (forget flushes!) reading Starflowers 'bio' was very familiar. I have had 'sweats' every 30/45 minutes day and night for 3 years since stopping HRT (following breast cancer). I have tried virtually every homeopathic remedy via Royal London Homepathic Hospital and 2 sessions of Acupuncture, the chillow, none of which made the slightest difference. I have also tried the SSRI antidepressant which is supposed to be better than Clonodine which I have also tried. It seems whatever I eat or drink or don't eat or drink makes no difference to the pattern of flushes.
It does have a serious effect on my life and I am currently waiting for my GP to talk to my Oncologist to see if I can restart HRT, I am clear of breast cancer and willing to take the risk as I cannot carry on for 15years like this!! As it would seem/feels like I am in the small percentage that could be in that position.
However as we know we are all different and the things I have tried do work for other people, so please carry on trying they may work for you.
I will try Starflower whilst I await my GP.
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I have just posted a 'bio', I meant that Rosebush's experience was like reading my own. sorry.
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Hot flushes
The hot flush, or flash, is well known as the classic menopausal symptom and affects 60–85% of menopausal women. Hot flushes and sweats are called vasomotor symptoms and vary immensely in both their severity and duration; for many women, they occur occasionally and do not cause much distress, but for about 20% they can be severe and can cause significant interference with work, sleep and quality of life. Women are affected by vasomotor symptoms on average for about 2 years but, for about 10%, symptoms can continue for more than 15 years.
Hot flushes usually last 3–5 minutes and are thought to be caused by a change in the temperature-controlling part of the brain.Normally, there is a daily pattern of rises and falls in your body temperature, being lowest at about 3am and highest in the early evening. These small changes are not normally noticed, but a menopausal woman may flush with every temperature rise, whether these are normal changes or not – for example, moving between areas of different temperature or having a hot drink – because of a change in the setting of the temperature control centre in your brain; your body thinks that it is overheating even when it isn't. To try to cool your body down, a variety of chemical reactions cause the blood vessels in the skin to open up, giving the sensation of a rush of heat, and sweat glands release sweat to dissipate heat.
It is believed that the changes in various hormone levels that occur around the time of the menopause, lead to the change in the setting of the temperature control centre, but the exact underlying mechanism is still unclear.
Other factors that can also cause flushes include being overweight, alcohol, excess caffeine, spicy foods, monosodium glutamate and some medications. Eating a healthy diet and losing weight if necessary can be helpful. Other simple measures that can help include:
• wearing cotton clothing rather than man-made fibres
• wearing loose thin layers of clothing rather than thick tight-fitting clothes
• keeping your bedroom temperature fairly cool at night – either leave a door or window open or consider a fan (partner permitting of course!).
Flushes affect every woman differently and, for many, no specific treatments will be required. When flushes are embarrassing, disruptive and affecting your quality of life, then help is available and your doctor will give you an individualised treatment plan – we are all unique!
Headaches, palpitations (sensation of heart racing) and dizziness can be associated with vasomotor symptoms. Excess caffeine can worsen palpitations, so take coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks in moderation.
Tell us what works for you.
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Is it just 1,000milligrams perday of the Starflower oil caps or can you take more? :o
Love
Tricia :)
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Hi I have been having hot flushes for a while but literally for minutes then they go away, but these past few days, I have noticed in the evenings I get hot and have to take my jumper off! This is someone who has the heating on and turned up and feels the cold easily. At night I wear cotton but again I get hot and sweaty and throw the covers off and its only February (heating goes off at 9 too)!! Currently these hot episodes aren't causing too much disruption but if they start to increase I shall have to do something. Initially thought I had a tempertaure, but not every night surely??
Scorpio
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With regards the hot flushes, I am not finding them too much of a problem in the day at the moment, although I am often wearing a T shirt and its sill winter !!! I do find I get them if I become stressed though, together with a kind of anxiety attack, think pops mentioned earlier about stress and I seem to have also had one thing after another for months now and find it kind of builds up.
Its more of a problem at night for me, and have a feeling I need to ditch the winter duvet, although then hubby will be feeling the cold. Have been trying to cut down on my tea and coffee intake during the day and try to keep off it completely in the evening and do feel that when I do this I do sleep a bit better and not wake up so many times. The constant waking in the night was making me feel really tired and any time in the evening when I sat down was just falling asleep. Also noticing my concentration levels low and my memory really bad over everyday things.
Bought the Starflower capsules yesterday, so am hoping these might help, however after googling I notice that one of the side effects of these is that it does thin the blood like taking asprin, so its worth checking if you are on other medication and warns about things like ginger and garlic, as I am currently taking Glucomasine and Chrondroitin (which I think also has a similar effect) am going to finish those off first before I start on the Starflower.
Not sure if anyone else is noticing that the symptoms come and go, mine seem to have a subsided for a few months and I thought I was ticking along ok, then suddenly wham, its like they all come back together, suppose the hormones dip in and out.
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Hi Ladies ;D
Tanny said:
Not sure if anyone else is noticing that the symptoms come and go, mine seem to have a subsided for a few months and I thought I was ticking along ok, then suddenly wham, its like they all come back together, suppose the hormones dip in and out.
Absolutely Tanny, this happens to me, it makes gauging the success of anything you take for the relief of symptoms very difficult, as you do not know if it is a natural easing in the symptoms for a while, of if the easing is a direct result of something you are taking.
I too seem to have had an exacerbation of my symptoms this past week, I am directly linking this with stress. I know that certainly for me stress can really aggravate my menopausal symptoms, not surprising really as the brain triggers the release of hormones in response to "Fight or Flight".
I have also seen a recurrence of my reflux problems with the pain in my throat returning too and this happens every single time I get stressed with and exacerbation of other menopausal symptoms.
I too have cut right down on coffee, mainly I only have one cup in the morning and woe betide anyone that interferes with my coffee time >:( I like to take my time and enjoy it. Sometimes if I am out at the shops I have a skinny latte', usually on a Saturday, which I look forward to. I do not drink tea, as tea has a lot of caffeine in it too. I am lucky because I do not drink alcohol or smoke, so these are two less things I don't have to worry about cutting down or stopping. Although the other week I did have a brandy on the advise of someone on here and it knocked me sideways :drunk: very quickly, LOL. I am allergic to chocolate and I actually resent this as I love chocolate, but I do sneak a bit here and there, as long as it is not too often and in strict moderation I usually get away with it. I find that chocolate gives me severe palpitations and migraines, so really do have to watch it.
I was taking 2000mg of starflower oil in the morning and I cut it down to 1000mg in the morning and 1000mg in the evening and I am wondering if this has caused the increase in flushes, so today I am reverting to 2000mg in one hit to see if this settles them back down again, but as you say Tanny, I have a feeling it is stress causing this.
Know exactly what you mean by one thing after another, it seems to have been this way for me for around a year now, I hope you manage to get some relief from this, it is not a very nice place to be.
:hug: (((Tanny))) :hug:
Still at least we have each other on here :-*
Lots of Love Pops xxx :peace::peace::peace:
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Have to agree with you Tanny re symptoms appear to leave us, then come back with a great big bang, i am retiring early with hubby in 9wks and was really hoping my hot sweats after 5yrs, were on the way out about 4wks ago, felt over the moon then the last 2wks, i feel like a lump of lard melting in 90 degree's (sorry about the description)), i am getting them about every 20-30mins day & night, feel so miserable, and work seems more stressful, i feel some times as if i cannot breathe i am so hot, and i have to change my uniform top at least twice :-\
Pops like you i also tried Starflower 2000mg in 1 hit for 6 days, no change, then did the same but 1 hr before bed, still no change so back on 1000mg now and returned to the Boron as well, this worked for a while :'( :'( hope it works again for you, and you get some relief :-*
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Natural progesterone cream has completely eliminated my hot flushes. I was very scepitcal that a little dab of cream twice a day could do this but it has. I obtain mine from a company in the Channel Islands.
If you have allergies to food colourings beware of taking PrempakC (HRT) to alleviate your flushes. I had a horrendous reaction - my face and neck swelled up bright red. GP was quite offhand about it saying "oh yes its the colouring" - great aren't they?
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hi There I'm new :)
Been reading through this thread in the hope that some-one will mention the symptoms I am having...and |i dont seem to see it...... :(
I started HRT for various symptoms ...you know them all too well, mood swings..joint pains....night sweats and palpitations....memeory loss...irregular periods etc etc
But Hot Flushes were not a problem (night sweats occurred maybe twice a night where \i would wake absolutely drenched)
Stopped the HRT after 3 months as I had bad side effects (terrible itching of the skin under my breasts and erm...down below..... :o
Since I stopped it ( I was on the lowest possible dose) the hot flushes have kicked in....OMG have they kicked in!!!!!
twenty times a day or more....my whole body is soaked, my hair goes curly due to my hair being so wet, my clothes are damp etc etc....bad enough ...but at night
and this is the worst bit............
the hot sweats happen but they wake me by starting with a terrible pain in both wrists....which feels like my blood is fizzing so hard it hurts....this fizzing spreads eventually all over my body ending at my head....by this time my whole body is soaked and aching badly.
This can happen 6 or 7 times a night.
At my wits end folks....cant find any one who has ever had this symptom....can you help? :'(
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Hi Hotmomma :welcomemm:
You have come to the right place for help and advice at this time of your life, I can't comment personally about HRT as I have never taken it, but as for the sweats/flushes I think you will find that most of the menochicks on here suffer to some degree from sweats/flushes it kind of comes with the territory ;D ;D ;D you will find that you are not alone here and every menochick here is very friendly, helpful & supportive, so make yourself at home and let us turn that sad face into a smillie face :)
Love,
Tricia :peace:
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Dear Hotmomma & welcome. You are really going through a rough time but you have found the best place to be. We all experience similar symptoms but maybe at different degrees. You sound like you are having a really bad time with the hot flushes at the moment & I think a trip to the doctors is advisable. Tell him/her what you are experiencing & ask if there is an alternative.
Personaly I use to suffer really bad night time hot flushes - waking up covered in sweat, dreanched to the skin. but I have found Femal ( not HRT ) & the flushes are so much better now. I get the same old warning but it doesn't "explode" as it use to. Every one of us is different & what works for one may not work for another so just keep an open mind & shop around.
Hope you keep "tuning in".
Love Cazikins xx
:catscratch: :cat48: :catscratch: :cat48:
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Hi ladies
I get hot flushes all day and if anythings upsets me - my face goes scarlet and stays like that for ages - I don't get any sweating at the moment but prior to a hot flush I feel like my brain is being squeezed - most uncomfortable and painful!
I know I've gone on about my mirena coil, oestrogen and testerone implants alot lately but does anyone know how long they take to kick in - all done on 15th March and still not noticing difference - if anything I feel worse! :'(
Love Kathy x
:hotflash:
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A funny thing has been happening to me over the last 2 days - just before I get a hot flush, my knees have been going really cold, like I am stood next to a fridge! Strange or what? :-[
Libby
x
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I am having really bad flushes i feel like i am on fire and i sweat really bad.Night time i find if i have a bad night sweat i can not go back to sleep!
I also find i drag myslef around the house all day long.I can not get out of my own way! :'(
:sweatdrop: :sweatdrop:
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Hi all
I have found my hot flushes r getting worse, been off HRT for 5 months now. But after reading some of your messages, I dont think their as bad as some of you's. I am finding a few ways to cope with the Flushes when they come.
1. I always try and drink water or fruit juice instead of tea or coffee.
2. I have been using wet wipes to cool down at night and when I get chance during the day.
3. Im going to try to eat small portions and often to see if this helps the Day flushes, it might help my bowels not getting to upset as well.
4. I find exercise some times helps.
5. If there is some paper or something to fan myself helps till it passes.
At work is the worse to cope with, im in a shop and if im on the till its hard to find some where to cool down, but I just talk to myself " it will be over in 2 mintues". I am finding some weeks its worse than others. And the hot weather does not help,I used to love the hot weather.
I find I'm getting tried after a Flushes as well.
But hope and Pray it only lastes a few years. And its better than the HRT side effects.
God Bless Sue
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Hi everyone,
I'm 52 and have been getting hot flushes and night sweats for about 2 years now and have tried red clover tablets and black cohosh tablets at different times. Both seemed to work initially but lost effectiveness after a while. My doctor wasn't willing to put me on HRT due to high blood pressure and I would rather not go down that route anyway. I was interested to read the comments about Starflower capsules and will give them a try though was a bit concerned to read about it thinning the blood as I am on dispersible aspirin for that anyway. It is pure misery when they start and especially at night when I feel like a furnace! It's good to read about everyone else's experiences.
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Hi Fizzy - big Welcome to the Forum from me :)
I would say it might be a good idea to check with your GP before starting Starflower if you are on blood thinners as it is known to thin the blood down a bit and you wouldn't want your flushes to be accompanied by nosebleeds as well ::)
I do hope you are having a good day with not too many flushes - mine disappeared for a whole month after the return of my period after a 6 month holiday :) but have just begun to make themselves known again. Mother Nature has a lot to answer for in my opinion :beat: :beat: :beat:
Keep posting - you will find loads of support on here together with sympathy, encouragement and a great sense of humour :hug:
Taz :bounce:
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novogen red clover tablets are great but take about a month to work, reduced my flushes by 80%
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I am quite fortunate with my hot flushes..........I only get maybe 3 or 4 a week, only ever on an evening and they are not too bad. I hope it stays that way..........its all my other symptons that seem to take over.
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I haven't had a hot flush since I started taking the HRT. I still feel generally warm most of the time but not having actual flushes. Thank goodness for small mercies!
Libby
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My new lady doc told me boil up some water put it into a jug place some freash sage into it with some lemon weges and let sit to go cold! She said it should help! I will give most things a go! I will let you know if it works! ::)
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Hi All
As a new member it is fantastic to see how you are all coping, or not, with hot flushes. I have been having the flushes for years now. Night time is the worst. I toss and turn most of the night and everytime I turn over the bed feels like an oven. Most nights I sleep on top of the duvet until I start shivering. Can't remember the last time I slept straight through. Daytime is not too bad yet but as the weather gets hotter so will I. I usually carry one of those small fans in my handbag for emergencies. Still, it's better than periods every month!! ;D
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I have been taking the Starflower capsules for a week now (2 x 1000mg daily) and have noticed a difference in my flushes/sweats. They are definitely not as often or as extreme. I certainly don't have as many during the day and can usually manage without turning my little fan on. At night I am awakened about twice with sweats but again not as long in duration or as severe. ;D
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My new lady doc told me boil up some water put it into a jug place some freash sage into it with some lemon weges and let sit to go cold! She said it should help! I will give most things a go! I will let you know if it works! ::)
Erm do we drink this or pour it all over us to keep cool LOL :o
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I work with 2 other women and we are all going through hot flushes and all find that taking sage leaf capsules twice a day helps enormously.
Does anyone happen to know how long its safe to take sage leaf for?
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I have found a supplement called Flash Fighters. Now I know the name is enough to put anyone off but I did find them in Holland and Barret when I was last in the UK.
Well girls they are actually working. They kicked in on the third week and I hve gone from having flashes every hour to hardly any this week and it is 35 degrees here most days.
It has several ingredients including: Black Cohosh, soya, Dong Quai, (sounds like that should be for the male menopause), and liquorice.
It recomends three tablets a day and I hve been taking two . As always these things do not work for everyone, but it may be worth giving it a go. ;)
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I know I've said this elsewhere on the site, but I have been taking a tablet after my breast cancer that has thrown me back into a sort of false meno.
I had terrible side effects from them and my Onc took me off them 5 weeks ago, but I still get flushes most hours night/day.......... :hotflash:
Today though I am feeling rather proud of myself, I managed the whole of my shopping trip to ASDA without one! This is the first time since xmas :ola:
Just thought I would share my excitment with you girls :banana:
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Hi Grindys - well done & I know what you mean about doing the shopping & not having one. I always seem to get a bad one when I am at the checkout, don't know why but it happens about 7 times out of 10 - probably because of the size of the bill.
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Hi Grindys :)
That is good news - let's hope you keep going like that and your shopping trips will be much more bearable in future. To be honest, I hate Asda and have been known to have a few 'funny turns' and hot flushes in there myself! :steamed: I am always glad to get out.
Take care
Love Libby
x
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Hi Grindys, I can sooo identify with that ! not that I'm obsessed or anything ! but you do start to know when one might be coming 'cos bizarrely they do get to be quite regular...about hourly for me or at worst every 45mins. so you get to feeling really pleased if you've managed to get through something without one . For me its often at the bank counter >:(
and in shops etc .
I even found myself actually getting quite excited when over an hour had passed without a flush ! how sad is that .
Having said that, for me, at the moment they seem to be getting fewer and further between ;D hurrah BUT have been here before only for them to return with a vengeance much to my utter dismay :'( :'( .
So good luck and long may your coolness continue :)
love Sarah b xx
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My hot flushes have come back with a vengence >:(.
Although I have a couple during the night the worst ones seem to be during the day - in fact some are so bad I fee quite light-headed.
I took Menopace for a few months but I'm not sure now if it helped.
I'm going to give the Starflower capsules a go; they appear to have encouraging results.
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Hi, I'm interested to read about the Starflower Oil capsules as I take this each day anyway , along with Evening Primrose Oil....perhaps that's why my hot flushes have not been too bad ( as yet!!) - usually they coincide with a warm day or at night time, or merely having a hot drink but I can't say they have been too troublesome at this stage.
What has helped me though is to take the homeopathic remedy SEPIA.
For various reasons I am unable to take any form of HRT and always prefer the natural remedies anyway as I have studied them and used them for many other ailments through the years..........I read up about Sepia, and felt it might well help me - and it has! It has also helped some of the low period type pains,the mood swings and tiredness! :)
Along with wearing mainly cotton/linen clothing, drinking lots of water and green tea , and making sure there is lots of air circulating,I am managing to keep fairly well, even though I also have R/R Multiple Sclerosis.
I am interested too, to find out if there is any cyclical link with what we originally had re our menstrual cycle.
I was usually fairy regular and just last year (just before turning 50)missed a few months, then had several months as normal, then missed another.
I then went back to my normal cycle, but since earlier this year I have now missed 3 months, and also had other symptoms such as period style cramps, low backache and the familiar warm flushes all around the time I would normally have had a period.
I guess things are now moving on a bit faster perhaps?
Has anyone else found SEPIA to be helpful?
I would love to hear from you.......
So glad we have this forum to share our thoughts and feelings- and experiences!
Kind regards,
Gilly xx
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I first got hot flushes 2 years ago when I was working in a stressful job, long hours and a lot of responsibility. After 6 months I realisied it was having a detrimental effect on my work performance and although my sister had had breast cancer (but nobody else in the family had) I decided to start taking HRT when I was 52. The flushes stopped, but I did get headaches, and period pains each time I had a period. Then I lost my job, and decided that maybe i could cope with the hot flushes, and i wouldn't have to put up with headaches and period pains. I had been on HRT 18 months when I finally came off, and for 3 months felt great. However, the flushes are now back with a vengeance, night sweats, soaking wet which causes lack of sleep, and consequent tiredness. I cannot carry on like this. I have tried all the alternatives, omega oils and multivitamins (which I still take), isoflavines - no noticeable effect, and clonidine which my GP prescribed as a last resort - this I tolerated well but it just doesn't work! I'm trying black cohosh as well at present, but from what it says on the site, it looks like that isn't going to work. So my only choice will be to go back on HRT. I do exercise, have lost a bit of weight (OK maybe more of these would be a good idea!), I try to eat well, organic if possible, and I don't smoke. I also have Crohns disease, which isn't too bad at present though I have to be careful what I eat as I had surgery 10 years ago to remove part of my small bowel, so this is something I already have to put up with! I feel as if enough is enough, and I need to stop this intolerable flushed, clammy horrible feeling!! If I thought it might be just a few months I may cope better but there doesn't appear to be any way of telling how long it will be. After I came off HRT 6 months ago I had a slight period, but nothing since, so as I am now 54 I am hoping I can go on period free HRT. I am a very upbeat person but this change of life really gets in the way of living a normal life!! The only other problem I have associated with this is not vaginal dryness (not really an issue as not in a secual relationship), but local soreness when I urinate sometimes - this is not cystitis, but just dryness, and I made sure I didn't have an infection or anything. But it's the flushes I cannot cope with really.
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Hi Chrissie. you sound really frustrated :( .I do sympathise with you , its so awful when you feel you are doing all the right things and nothing seems to make much of a difference.the heat is the worst part for me and also that sense of it just being never ending ( 5yrs so far for me now eeek !)
Sometimes the flushes seem to become less hot and less frequent and I start to feel soooo much better ,thinking at last its over ;D then back they come with a vengeance >: ( :hotflash:
From what you say you also have other things to put up with as well ..what a b****r ..poor you .
at least we can come on here and say what we need to say... sorry I've got no answers but I can connect with how you are feeling.
lots of love and maybe these will cheer you a bit :foryou:
sarah b x
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Hi chrissie and I know how you feel.HRT is the only thing thats stopped my flushes.I'm 52 and been on it one year.period free type as I hadnt had a period for almost 2 year before I went on it.I really felt unable to cope with work and social life when I had the flushes.Hope you get sorted out soon xxx
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I reported in an earlier in this thread that I was taking Flash fighters for my flashes and that they were working. Well at the moment I don't think anything is going to help. We are having the worst ever heatwave in Turkey and our area is the hottest. It was 51 degrees yesterday and today. Late 40's all last week. I feel like getting on a plane and going to Alaska for a two month break. I am sitting here in an air conditioned office but am flashingevery half hour or so. I want to die. I am spraying lemon cologne all over me, in the absence of pepperment oil and water as previously suggested. I am not sure how I am going to survive the summer with this heat and the flushes...............help!!! :'(
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HI Craft,you poor thing!I saw that Turkey is having a heat wave...dont know what I can sya to help.We are off to Northern cyprus in 2 weeks and they have it pretty hot at the mo as well but I will be in the sea etc and not haviong to work like you are.My hot flushes first started when I was on holiday in Antalya 2 years ago...awful I just wanted to go home.HRT has sorted them for me.Hope you get some relief soon.xxx
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Hi Craft :)
It must be awful for you in that heat - I am not sure what to suggest to help you with temperatures like that. Having said that, I am hot most of the time just now and it's only 15oc here today! There is certainly no sign of us getting any sun at the moment. :sunny:
Sorry I am not much help but try and stay as cool as you can and take care.
Libby
x
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I know noone can help really I just wanted to moan as I feel so bloody hot!!!!!!!And you lot are so good at feedback. So still flushing but feel better knowing you lot sypathise.
Take factor 350 for Cyprus Juju and have a wild time 8)......... lol
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Thanks for the sympathy and flowers! :) Well my doctor said I can have HRT, and I just got my prescription filled, but it looks like a mistake has been made as I've been given oestrogen only HRT (and I have not had a hysterectomy!), so it looks like I'll have to go back again!! >:( I was hoping to finally get it sorted, but it'll be a little bit longer I suppose! It's a good job this site explains the different types of HRT otherwise I might have been in the wrong type for 3 months! Still it has gone very cold and wet here in the UK, so at least I'm not suffering hot weather too!
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Hi Chrissie, I am on an oestragen only form of HRT, but that is because I have the mirena coil fitted - I don't suppose you have one too do you? if you do then this type is ok. Sorry I can't be of more help to you right now sweetheart.
Cazikins
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Hi Chrissie :)
I hope you can get this sorted out very soon and that it starts to help you feel better very soon.
Libby
x
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Flushes are driving me nuts this weather >:(
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I aye bin 'ere fer sum time bur I 'ave lurked in the past ter try an' pick up 'ints ;)
I'm 53 <gulp> an' 'ave bin 'avin' 'ot flushes an' nightsweats ter drive me mad :'(
I refuse ter tek HRT but used Menopace & Evening Primrose an' then I saw a post sumwhere abaht Black Cohosh an' sage extract. Started tekkin' BC first an' me night sweats disappeared<hurrah!> an' me flushes 'ave reduced an' all :)
I'm now tekkin' Menopace Plus which includes sage an' I doe 'ave night sweats at all - hot flushes rarely......
I 'ope I'm thru' the worst now :sigh:
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HRT isnt for everyone, but my hot flushes and night sweats went within 3 days of taking Nuvelle.
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I stopped drinking alcohol and try and avoid hot spicey foods as found they made my flushes worse. I started taking black cohosh and started eating healthy, I eat burgen bread and introduced soya into my diet. I still get the flushes but they are not so bad and dont get so much in a day which is a relief long may it continue.
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My hot flushes and sweats have a mind of their own. They come and go so I don't take anything as it seems as if I would be really convinced that something had stopped them when, in fact, they might just be going through a "turned down" phase anyway. At their worst I have a full blown hot sweat every 20 minutes - ending up with soaking wet everything and steamed up glasses. My periods are erratic - anything from 7months apart to 4 months apart and the flushes always stop like a tap being turned off about 2 weeks before one arrives. So, now paradoxically, I look forward to a period!!!!! ::)
HRT is my next step - am just gearing myself up for a "discussion" with my GP :beat: :beat:
Love Taz x :bounce:
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Hi Taz2 .
I know what you mean when you say there's no pattern to the meno' symptoms.
That's why I decided to just stop trying all the so called "remedies" and see what happened . I was convinced that Soy Isoflavones had "cured" me until all the usual symptoms came back with a vengeance >:( Now where have I heard that before ? !
I'm hoping I'm over the worst now ...still get flushes every hour but not quite as TORRENTIAL as they've been .No periods for two years now which is one GOOD thing. Its bad isn't it when you actually start looking forward to having periods :o :o for the relief that goes with it .
Hang on in there
love Sarah b x
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Well this is really just an update from my post back in March....
I told you I was having almost constant, painful flushes, which I felt was due to me stopping HRT after only 3 months......
The flushes gradually subsided over the next few months......and so did my periods LOL I got one on 6 Feb (the day my twin grandaughters were born :)) and then not a sign....
until ...you guessed it! >:(I went on holiday in June and started....nuffink with me.....in hotel shop with teenage son...'wot you looking for mum'????.....'oh hair clips, y'know boring stuff'...(hoping he would lose interest and diasppear)....he brings me assorted packs of hairs clips...'Which ones d'you want Mum?'....bless :-\
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Hi Sarah - I'm glad you know what I mean :) and glad that your flushes are toning down a bit :meltdown:! They make you feel so horrible - overall I mean - tired and washed out and :rant: :rant: Did you see my post called Flushes stopped and life began again? Well, period stopped and flushes beginning again!! Not as bad yet though :)
Hotmamma - bless him - did you end up buying some as well as the sanitary stuff? Maybe this one will be your last........ :hug:
Love Taz x :bounce:
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Hi again Taz , sorry to hear that your flushes have started up again >:( how VERY annoying. Its only when they and all that goes with them stops that you realise even more how utterly crap they made you feel . Having had flushes etc on and off now for 5yrs ( ! ! eek can't believe it ! ) I am now very cautious about getting over excited :bounce: when things settle down for a bit.
suppose we just have to try to make the most of the " lull" and not get too down hearted when all the crap comes back again . keep telling myself that ONE day I WILL feel like ME again.
love Sarah b x
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I am finally starting to feel better! ;D The only thng that seems to work is HRT, and now I am on period free patches, the hot flushes are really slowing down. Now all I have to worry about is the side effects of HRT :sigh: - but I am having a mammography next week, so at least I will know where I stand. I'm not sure how long I will stay on HRT this time, but maybe when I stop there will be something "new" to try, as nothing else has worked. Best of luck everyone! :)
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Hello Everyone
I am new - just registered today. I am absolutely fed up with the hot flushes and night sweats. I moved house in April and we are still having the bathrooms fitted so only have a bath at present and no shower working. I was in the shower up to five times a day and also during the night in our old home. I now feel dreadful most of the time. I never get a nights sleep, at most I get three hours and this has been going on for months now. I started with really bad hot flushes about ten to twelve months ago and went straight to my GP. As an ex-GP practice manager I thought I had only to ask for HRT and be given a prescription....I was wrong! My GP said that as I had not had a smear test for some time he would not be prepared to prescribe HRT for me. (I am not going to have a smear and will not change my mind so I am trying to find something that will work for these sweats.) My doctor gave me some tablets called Clonidine 25mcg I took two in the morning and two in the afternoon. I started these last November and the sweats almost stopped straight away - I felt wonderful Then after six months or so, the pills stopped working and the flushes came back - although it has to be said they are not as bad as initially. When they first started they were about every half hour and I was literally wet through in minutes - all my clothing and skin- I felt dirty all the time hence the showers! I luckily work from home so I can take time out to go under the fan or walk outside when they happen but if I was going out to work I don' think I could cope. I dread even going shopping as it is so embarrassing when I feel a sweat coming on and there is absolutley nothing I can do about it as I am sure you all know only too well. I am not particularly well off, but I tried buying herbal remedies like Red Sage and Boots Chemists menopause remedy, in addition to Evening Primrose Oil. I kept these up for a few months but they made no difference at all to the sweats and cost a fair amount. I am now considering Starflower oil after reading this forum....can anyone else say that it works with any confidence? I am not being mean but have just moved to a wreck of a bungalow and my husband and I are spending all our time and spare cash on the renovation costs so I can little afford to try yet another herbal remedy unless I have some hope of its working. I have upped the dose of my Clonidine tablets from 4 daily to six daily after asking my GP. He actually told me that the time will come when nothing will work for me - more or less just to get on with it. I also asked him about pain in my left shoulder. I am right handed but the pain in my shoulder can be excruciating. I first experienced it in March of this year when getting out of the car. I mived my left arm backwards to close the passenger door of the car and ended up lying accross the bonnet tha pain was so bad I was almost physically sick....my husband couldn't understand what had happened. Since then I have sort of learned to guard my arm and not use it so much.... howeverI still get the nauseating pain when I forget. I can only just manage to get dressed but fastening my bra is now impossible and I have to fasten it at the front and pull it round! Or I ask my husband for help if he is around. I wondered if this was menopausal but my GP just said its probably arthritis - gave me some Diclofenac tablets to take 3 times a day and that was that. I have since been back and told him how bad the pain is and how it is interfering with my life....I cannot blow dry my hair properly as I can't get the hairdryer- in my left hand - high enough up to do the job. Likewise, I can't use my hair tongs as this is a two handed job. Anyway my GP is not so helpful and just says its arthritis - he hasn' actually examined me but I don't know whether that would make any difference.I really feel the pain is so very bad that it can't just be osetoarthritis but I am not a doctor. I have always been a very healthy person and this stuff is getting me down. I feel sorry for my husband because I try not to moan too much but its inevitable sometimes, especially when I can't pick things up or take my own coat or jacket off. I am unable to lie on my left side in bad and fell about 90 instead of 52. Can anyone identify with me and offer any advice? I have had to stop whilst writing this to go and mop myself down - even the computer keyboard is wet! I go to the loo for a wee and my knickers are sticking to my skin making pulling them down difficult and then I can't pull em up again because of my left arm. Try pulling yours up with just your right hand - its not as easy as it sounds. Surely life shouldn't be this difficult just because of a natural process like the menopause? I am a great reader and have read in lots of novels about ladies in the past - 1800's and so on, being indisposed or suffering from undisclosed weaknesses and having to remain prone on settees and suchlike - I wonder were they suffering from hot flushes and the menopause in general? God help them - they didn't even have showers let alone Clonidine or HRT - makes you wonder how they got through life! I may appear to be making light of all this but I am getting quite desperate - my email address is [email protected] and I would welcome any advice or help from any of you out there. Thanks in anticipation. MARY
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Hi Mary, you poor thing ! what a sorry tale :( Thing is though as I'm sure you are beginning to realise there are many of us here with similar tales of woe . it really is awful isn't it but at least we can just support each other the best we can .
As for what you have tried so far to help yourself...... i have been going through this for severel years now and have tried all I can think of and most of what everyone else can think of. i'm now more or less convinced that actually nothing REALLY works LONGTERM. You'll see from others as well...things seem to work for a while then everything just comes back...this leaves me wondering if thats how meno' symptoms are anyway. Plenty of ladies on here will vouch for the fact they can be fine for a while and think they are through it all when WHAM >:( :'( :hotflash: the symptoms return with a vengeance !
we all wish we new how long it all goes on for but there seems to be no answer to that one .
Sooo... if it works for you then great .....there's no harm in trying though it can end up being rather expensive.
(Haven't used HRT (lots of reasons) so can't comment on that)
I just now try to focus on dealing with the practicalities ....such as carrying a fan and moist wipes etc.
you mentioned your shoulder...sounds painful...I had a frozen shoulder 2yrs ago ..AGONY and was also prescribed Diclofenac which did help .I also had some massage therapy from a Sports Masseur which really helped . Was told it would take a year to fix and it just about did !
hope some of this helps ...someone else will be along soon as well I'm sure.
love Sarah b x
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Hi Mary and Welcome to the forum- As you will see - there is loads of information here - re. your shoulder pain- did your doctor examine the shoulder- before he said it was arthritis- I too suffered from excrutiating pain a few years ago- my G. P. told he he did not know for sure and so referred me to an orthopaedic surgeon- who did an x ray and sure enough diagnosed a frozen shoulder which does sometimes occur around the time of the menopause- like you - I was absolutely helpless- I could hardly get dressed but the worst thing was the pain- I could not sleep even with really strong pain killers - it was absolute agony- I had to have the shoulder manipulated under anaesthetic followed by a course of physio. over three months or so-but the pain was gone immediately after the manipulation so it is worth checking out.
Mary, it is better if you don't give out your email address on the forum- we can also send personal emails through the forum itself-if you go to the profile -I hope this helps
toastie xxx
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I was advised by my GP to try antihistamine tablets - I have been taking a daily tablet for the past 4 months - AND I HAVE NO MORE HOT FLASHES!
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Now that sounds like a good bit of advice Charlies angel, sort of thinking "outside the box ".I've always said there must be a way to "turn off" our bodies tendancy to heat up during the meno' and maybe this is it !
glad it worked for you .... never heard that suggested before .
love Sarah b x
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Hi, I'm so happy to have read about Starflower Oil - I'll get some tomorrow. Really
struggling with my night sweats and low mood. Feeling old all
of a sudden (I'm 53 years young), single, no kids and just mourning
the loss of everything! I'm in a long-distance relationship
which isn't going well at the moment either. So young at heart
but lost my motivation for anything at the moment.
Surely it can't stay like this for the coming months and years??
Don't know how I'd stick it but won't take HRT. Forty years
of periods - give them back to me any day over this!
Hopefully it'll improve when I start taking the Starflower Oil.
Good to know I'm not alone. Bye for now.
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Hello Waterbabe,
First of all :welcomemm:
This isn't a pleasant thing to go through but we are here to support you and help you. We all have low moods and it is good to come here and know that there are people who do understand what you are going through. I don't take HRT, or anything else, but that is just me. I hope that you find the Starflower Oil helpful.
Take care
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Hi Waterbabe
:welcomemm:
Sorry you are feeling so horrible. I had been doing very nicely on HRT for 6 years (I am 55) but the last few months due partly to a work related anxiety, I feel I am having difficult functioning.
Don't look back, you cannot change what has passed (I dwell to much on what ifs).
I am giong to try to concentrate on what I can still do.
I like Bach Flower remedies they are good for emotions. Yesterday I was reading about them all. It actually mentioned Walnut being the remedy for transitions in life including the menopause and also the link breaking bond freeing remedy.
These work alongside anything else you choose to take.
Love Flutterby :hug:
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Hi All,
I have just been given a link to this site by a friend - really hoping it wll be useful.
I am 51 and have been having menopausal symptoms for at least 6 years. When they got really bad, I went on HRT. First tablets, but I had bad headaches, then patches.
In 2003 I was diagnosed with a Brain Tumour, and had treatment in April 2004. Continued to take the HRT a doctors didn't want to change anything until BT was addressed. In September last year, bad headaches began again, and I was taken off HRT. Since then I have tried so many things to control the hot flushes and feelings of not being able to cope. Acupuncture didn't work for me. Sage tablets worked or a while, as did Red Clover and Black Cohosh. I am now taking Ayuda - natural HRT - and Oil of Evening Primrose tablets. Variable results. Hot flushes are intense and are affecting my work and homelife. I have to do Public Speaking and chair meetings as part of my job.
Recently I have also been diagnosed with low grade Diabetes, and have a Hiatus Hernia. Part of the treatment for my BT meant having all my teeth removed, and after the treatment I had a T.I.A. which is a mini stroke. I take aspirin to thin the blood.
So I am coping with dentures, which I do not tolerate well, reflux, Diabetes, hot flushes, joint pain and mild depression :(
I know that so many people are worse off than me, but I feel very down sometimes. I lead a very busy life, but feel old and tired at the moment. My job is quite stressfull, but I enjoy it. Some days though, I just want to hide from the world, and today is one of them. My mother is 89 and still gets hot flushes, and that makes me feel quite desperate. I wish I could find something that works for me longterm.
My GP has suggested that I go cold turkey, but will put me back on HRT if I really want to, but I can't make the decision. I am spending a fortune on natural remedies, which don't really seem to work. My OH is rightly fed up, and so am I.
Any advice greatly appreciated. Sorry if I sound like I'm moaning, but itis good to find a forum of like minded people :)
Mags xxx
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Hi Mags,
I have just replied to your post in the new members section. My goodness you have been through it, poor you. As I said in my other post I have just started HRT to help with my meno symptoms, early days for me, at the start I did have bad headaches, but thankfully they have now gone. I to have tried many different herbal remedies and this can be expensive, different ones work for different people, everyone is different, as you will read in old posts ladies have all had different levels of help with different things. I have to say I did not try the herbal remedies for long. I do take evening primrose oil caps and starflower caps as well as the HRT. I also went to see a homeopath and I take sepia, a preparation she made up for me, which she has said I can take along with the HRT.
I can fully understand when you say you want to hide from the world, I to have days like this, the hardest thing I find to cope with is the depression and anxiety that come with the menopause, I had never felt like this before and it is very scarey.
All I can say is it helps to talk about it on here with other ladies that feel the same. There is always someone here to listen when you have a down day.
Take care
Luv Sharon x :foryou:
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Very successful for the first 8 months under the guidance of a practitioner from the National Institute of Registered Herbalists, put me on a tincture of Black Cohosh, Red Clover, Sage, Siberian Ginseng, Gingko and Hops. Within 2 weeks I'd defy the average 25 year old to feel better, more energised and flush/sweat free completely (had been averaging 12 - 15 flushes per day and 8-10 night sweats - lovely). Can't tell you how brilliant I felt, wearing polo necked jumpers, full of beans and DRY.
Built up a tolerance to the mix and went downhill from there - back to square 1. Tried natural progesterone cream (from Serenity in Guernsey and ProGest in USA), very, very limited success. Tried many various whacky 'cures' to no avail, been dabbling in DiY herbal remedies (mostly centering around Black Cohosh) over the last couple of years to little effect. Sage by Nature's Answer definitely takes a tiny 'edge' off the level of sweat produced.
Beyond a shadow of a doubt the sweats are worse following any form of alcohol (even the tiny drop in a Christmas mince pie can make me 'hot'), take a glass of wine and they will be ferocious for days so gave it up completely. Caffeine (and decaf) in any form including chocolate. I'm in semi denial about the choccy but have given up my beloved latte and restrict chocolate as best I can (and I'm sick of drinking orange juice). Chinese food and curry - limit both considerably or suffer the consequences.
GP has put me on Clonidine to see if it helps - maybe a tiny bit but disappointing. The whole combination of Sage, abstinence and pills has maybe brought the flushes down marginally, mostly sweaty discomfort as opposed to the downright horrendous, just stepped out of the shower wet look, so on the whole, though I don't like it, I would have to say it is a bit better than before but a long way from perfect. I HATE IT. What a sacrifice - no booze!!!**
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I have the hot flashes ,but they are not to bad and getting less and less.
I just ignore them and take natural remedies. Dong Quai
I find the more I worry about them the worse they are.
I get more if I'm worried or upset.
If I feel one coming on in the day I breath slowly until it's gone , trying to keep as calm as I can.
At night sleep with the window open with a thin cover and just get on with it.
I have had them for nearly 3 years.
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Hi Ellie - I'm glad that you have found a way of coping with the hot flashes. I find that mine leave me absolutely dripping and it is so embarrassing when I am stood in front of a class of 11 year olds (I am a Teaching Assistant) to have to keep wiping my face and trying to concentrate on what I was saying :meltdown: This week they have been particularly bad even to the point of sweat running down the backs of my legs - I hate that feeling - then I go so cold afterwards. I was like this a few months ago, sweats every 20 minutes, then they suddenly stopped and for three weeks I felt absolutely great - then I had a period - the first for about 7 months I think - and gradually things have returned to the pre-period state.
At night I am lucky as I wake up just before a hot sweat strikes which enables me to actually get out of bed and go and lie on the cold bathroom floor - so no bed changing halfway through the night :)
I for one have had enough of living like this - the sweats are the worst bit for me at the moment - so it is off to the doc next week armed with my 8 week diary and some knee pads so that I can plead for HRT :D
Love Taz x :bounce:
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Hi Taz, I know you have been through hell with your hot flushes. You have kept your 8 week diary & you should now get the HRT that you deserve.
If you don't then - change your doctor.
My 2 worse symptoms were exhaustion & hot flushes, they were a bugger for me. I did not think that going on HRT would sort it out but it did. I have no regrets - I just should have done it sooner.
Taz, please let us know how you get on. I often wonder how you are doing as you don't post as much as you use to.
Sorry to hi-jack - again..
xx
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Hi Cazikins - sorry not to have posted so often - have lots going on in personal life and also am how working almost full time which totally gets in the way of internet time :cuss:
Will report back on what the GP has to say - I wanted to get through this without help but am beginning to realise that quality of life is very important - thanks so much for your comment :hug:
Love Taz x :bounce:
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Taz, you are a very valued member, don't lose contact with me.
Quality of life is sooooo important.
I could not survive w/out HRT, you will benefit from it trust me.
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Hi Taz..jus want to add my support.HRT has saved me,I had put my notice in cos of hot flushes....debilitating and embarassing.Dont take no for an answer except if you have a medical problem that stops you from taking it.Your gp has no business putting his prejudice on you.Mine was the total opposite and said she could not advise me only give me info and I had to decide.I am sure ethically they are not allowed to put their opinion on you.Hope you get sorted or as Cazikins says..see another GP.xxxx
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If anyone can find relief from hot sweats i would say go for it, they have been the most horrible part of the meno for me so far, like a lot of you ladies, i would love just 1 nights sleep, i gave up a job i loved, as i could not cope anymore with the stress, after nearly 6yrs i do now get longer gaps from one to the next, and i do get that 10second warning, in the day i can get outside to cool off, and at night get out of bed into the bathroom i leave a wet flannel in my wash basin and grab that, and 3mins later i am freezing..... so 'other than' if it interfer's with health or your religion go for it.... ANYTHING is worth a try............ :hug:
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Hi Rosebush!Have you tried HRT?Only thing thats worked for me.
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I've been getting hot flushes/night sweats for about 3 years now and have been taking Black Cohosh 3 x 200mg tabs per day and also Menopace tablets which have been helping, they've certainly reduced in amount. I was dreading going on holiday as we were going to Las Vegas and the temperature was over 100 every day but wonder of wonders, I didn't have one the whole time we were away! I don't know if this was because I was less stressed or what but practically the minute we landed they started again and have come back with a vengeance and I'm back to being up and down all night and tired all the time. I think I'll just have to go on permanent holiday! ;D
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Hi Fizzy
It would be interesting to ask if anyone's hot flushes and meno symptoms are worse or the same on holiday. Quite a few people seem to get nearly complete relief.
Just putting a case for us girls to be on permanent holiday ;)
Flutterby
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Hi I just started having hot flushes about 2 months ago. After a visit to the local tablet shop and a very helpful member of staff I have started taking the Menopace and Evening Primrose Oil as well.
I work for a Bank and as I work at a computer screen all day in an office where the air conditioning is not very good to say the least, I spend all day with an electric fan on my desk. Fan on..... Fan off..... jacket on..... jacket off.....
Everyone I work with finds it very amusing but I must say I am not amused in the least. I am also not sleeping very well and seem to wake up from 1:00 am onwards covers off.... covers on.... I don't know how my husband gets any sleep at all, I don't. The worst time however is on my journey to work on the local metro, everyone is wrapped up and I am stripping off. Also when the trains are full I sometimes have to get off as I feel Like I am going to pass out.
This is only my second day of taking the 'tablets' so I do hope they make a difference, if not I may be hoping some of you other suffers have some other suggestions.
I will let you know how I get on....
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Dear Smiler,
I'd like to say :welcomemm: Sounds like you'll have a lot in common with the rest of the ladies enduring these symptoms and surviving this new stage of our lives. I think the supplements will take a little while before you start to see the benefits so don't give up if you feel they aren't having an instant solution to your problems. I take female balance which is a health supplement and so far I think they are helping me to steer clear of some of the symptoms that are troublesome at this time.
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Hi Smiler - :welcomemm: from me too.
I hope that you get relief from the flushes with the Menopace and Evenining Primrose and as Ellen has said they may take a while to kick in. Do you get that feeling where you just can't breathe and you just want to fling your arms out wide? I do and can't imagine being on a crowded train when I feel like that :meltdown:
For me it has been by far the most uncomfortable symptom of the meno so far. As the regulars on here know I finally decided to "give in" and ask the doc for HRT. I ummed and ahhed for ages before I finally asked her to prescribe it and was turned down so went to see the other female docs in the practice. These also seem to think that as I have been having them for nearly two years I must be nearly through it and I really should just accept it as part and parcel of a women's life. :bang: :cuss: The flushes have progressed to horrible sweats and, on a bad day, they are approximately every 25 minutes and leave me wet and weepy :burn: :burn: I sympathise with you too over your bad nights - I have solved this a bit by not going to bed till after 1 which only gives me five hours to do the "covers on - covers off " bit ;D ;D
Keep posting and let us know how you get on with the Menopace and Evening Primrose. :hug:
Love Taz x :bounce:
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Hi all
I'm new to all this too, and am struggling with the dreaded hot flushes, and my sleep is suffering badly
I used to sleep well, and now I'm in and out of the covers all night long - I wake up exhausted from all the tossing and turning!
I get hot then cold, then hot again, and soooo thirsty at night too
My aunt recommended sage extract for the hot flushes, which I am trying - the tablets smell like horse dung! and so far have made no difference whatsoever, but I will carry on, and report back in a while
I'm waiting for my order of melatonin which is a hormone suposed to help sleep, but the postal strikes have delayed the order, so will let you all know once they finally get here
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Hi Botex,
I have just started sage tabs for hot sweats, my friend has been on them for 4wks, and is getting some relief, was getting them every 40mins, but the weekend the frequency was one every 2hrs :)
Hope they kick in for you soon, i did try the drops in water about 4yrs ago, and they helped for a while, but will post how i go on...
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A few months ago I began to have moments in the night when I was too hot and had to throw off the covers to cool down. Perhaps that's a night sweat? When I read up on it, though, it certainly wasn't as bad as some women have. During the daytime I would have fairly regular bouts of heat, around 30 seconds in length, but I found some advice on line that suggested you breathe through it when you start to feel it coming on (deeper breathing as in labour), which worked really well most of the time. The flushes have gone though more recently. Perhaps my hormones have stabilised for a while, but I also read it could all be over in several months? I'm 48 and had a hysterectomy 6 years ago, still have my ovaries though. What is your viewpoint?
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Hi Jeni - I'm not sure how you tell where you are on the meno journey when you dont have periods to gauge things by :-\ :-\
My flushes started two years ago and came and went over a few months. They disappeared completely for about 5 months and then came back with a vengeance as full blown sweats approximately every 25 minutes night and day. I have had these for a year now - glasses steam up, sweat trickles from the nape of my neck right down into my socks, drips off my chin - yuk, yuk, yuk. My last period was in March and all of the info I have read indicates that "flushes and sweats reach their peak about two years after periods have ended" Help!!
So,my viewpoint on this is that it is soooo hard to tell whether things are finished or not. My friend is still flushing many times a day and her last period was 7 years ago, one of my other friends has never had a flush in her life and hers finished 5 years ago. I met a lady in the docs who was 72 and had been flushing regularly every day for the past 20 years - no rhyme or reason to it. Sorry not to be of more help ::)
Love Taz x :meltdown:
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Seems pretty unfair that we have a tendency to put on weight at the same time as melting through sweats! ::) ::)
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Hi all
Been taking the Menopace tablets for about 5 weeks now as well as taking Evening Primrose Oil and I must say the hot flushes as much better :-*
Unfortunately I am putting on weight :'( I have tried and managed to stop eating so much and I eat quite a healthy diet but to no avail....... I am still struggling to get into my clothes espiecially my skirts and trousers for the uniform I still have to wear for work :cuss: This is just not fair when you have suffered every month with really bad periods, cramp and heavy bleeding, why oh why do we then get all of this. This has really convinced me to come back as a man next time!!
Anyway I will put up with the lettuce leaf only so that I don't feel like my stomach is going to explode and hope it gets better.
Can anyone advise if taking water tablets would help?
Keep smiling everyone
Luv
Smiler x
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Cor girls, don't we suffer???? Men are soooo lucky!
I have always been a hot person, never one for feeling cold, but this past year has been dreadful. Every morning I apply my makeup to have it melt down my fact during the day, my hair spikes and has a permanent wet look to it, and I rarely wear any shoes favouring sandals instead to help keep me cool. Being newly promoted at work I have to attend lots of meetings and sit amongst all these cool looking, smartly dressed ladies, and there am I red faced, constantly wiping the perspiration, in thin, cotton strapless tops (whatever the weather) and sandals. I bet they think I'm a right old hippy ha ha! My only consolation is that one day these immaculate ladies will be suffering too!!!!!!
I strongly believe that there's not a lot we can do to stop the sweats but definitely believe worrying and stress worsens them. :angryfire:
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O Me Miserum, a trail of sweat runs down my bum
My face is red, my pores all leak, a nice dry body is what I seek
Hot flushes plague me every day, this menopause has come to stay
I've lost my mind, my brain is weak, I forget my words when I try to speak
My hair is damp, my back is wet, how much worse can this thing get
My sex appeal has come and gone, my darling's face is quite forlorn
My sleep's disturbed, I'm up and down, hubby and me both wear a frown
It seems like I'm awake all night, it's just not fair, it's just not right
Arms and legs stretched out to air, I wait to dry and try to bear
This wretched life that now is mine, I miss those days of feeling fine
I've tried so many remedies to try to make the sweating cease
I've spent an awful lot of dosh on Isovon and Black Cohosh
Evening Primrose and Starflower too, just to see if they would do
Red Clover pills and Menopace worked for a while but I must face
The fact that nothing's adequate, I must endure this dreadful fate
In years to come I hope to see, a brighter, happier, normal me
For now, I must just soldier on, where did I put that Isovon?
Hope you like my poem - just a little taste of how I and probably most of you feel these days! :cuss: ;)
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Dear Fizzy,
How true. I recognise a few of these unfortunately.
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Such truth in your words Fizzy but I also had to laugh. Thanks for that. ;D
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I wondered where hot flushes begin for individuals? Particularly at night, they start around my lower chest area. It is controllable by pushing the duvet back until it's over. Similar during the day, but by deep breathing, can control the worst of it. Otherwise, keeping a fold up fan to hand is useful.
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Hi all,
This is my first post, I am 43 and have had flushes for about 9 months, my doctor told me today that I am menopausal, I just feel like crying. I get about 4 flushes an hour, my whole body feels as though it is on fire and I sweat horrendously. I don't even feel I can tell anyone, my hsband would probably just laugh at me, I actually feel embarassed.
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Hi Shazza and a huge :welcomemm: from me.
You have no need to feel embarrassed on here and once you get tallking about your feelings and symptoms on here then it is much easier to deal with it when having to talk to your husband. Did your GP offer any help? I think that as you are under the age of 45 then you are considered to be having an "early" menopause. Check out the green menu on the left under Menopause and then What and When you will find the actually usual ages of menopause mentioned. I think, but am not 100% sure, that if you are menopausal under the age of 45 then you should be advised about HRT purely to keep your bones and heart healthy.
I'm sorry that you feel so upset by what you have been told today but it is not surprising. I think that a lot of us on here have felt "Meno? Me? No way - I'm not ready yet" and it does take a while to come to terms with it. You will find tremendous support and help on here. You can post about anything and rant and rave as much as you like. There will always be someone who has some advice for you or just a friendly shoulder for you to lean on.
Have a read through all the posts and you will see that we are all in this together :hug:
Keep posting and let us know how you get on.
Love Taz x :bounce:
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Dear Shazza
A big :hug: from me. Having hot flushes that often must be awful. I would definitely go back to my GP or other health professional for some help.
As Taz says you should never feel embarrassed on here, no matter how personal you think the problem is.
Please keep posting
Love
Flutterby
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Hi Again Shazza - I forgot to say that I am on HRT now and it was the sweats which made finally take it. I wish I had started it earlier. I too had around 4 an hour day and night - Flutterby is right to say go and talk to your GP - within 24 hours of starting the patches my flushes/sweats had completely disappeared. I am sleeping and feeling much stronger and more positive. I am 53 by the way and have been having flushes for almost 2 years.
Love Taz x :)
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I'm new here and found the site when searching the web for info! The thing that has driven me to take more definite action is the arrival of the dreaded hot flushes!
It started around 18 months ago when I had a period lasting almost 3 weeks and took myself off to the docs. She gave me a blood test which indicated that my oestrogen levels were so low they couldn't be measured. I had a follow-up test a few weeks later and the levels were low but measurable. We decided I was probably peri-menopausal and to see how things went but to go back if anything else bothered me. Since then I've had missed periods from time to time (no complaints there!) but not much of anything else until recently. I missed a period due around Boxing Day (again no complaint!) but the last couple of weeks I have been having hot flushes, mostly during the day but the odd one at night. They're not awful so far and I don't go red in the face or anything. I'm pretty sure no-one else would know I was having them! But I have them about 20 times a day, a wave of heat and then feeling sweaty. At first they didn't bother me too much but now I'm feeling tired and washed out with them. I'm still sleeping OK, just the occasional one at night which doesn't keep me awake too much. Reading some other experiences makes me realise I'm getting off relatively lightly so far! I get palpitations sometimes too but I'm used to that having suffered with anxiety attacks in the past. Still I'd rather not have them! Oh, and headaches like I've never had before! Reading other posts they all seem to be related. I've started taking Menoherbs this week so I'll have to see if they help.
Reading other posts I realise that at 47 I'm not as much on the young side for these symptoms as I thought I was! It has been very helpful reading other people's experiences, thanks!
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Hi LynS, welcome to the forum.
I am glad to hear that you have found some useful info here.
I was also shocked to realise that I was going through the menopause at the age of 48/49 as I thought I had a few more years to go :( :( but alas it can strike at anytime, when you least expect it).
I just want to welcome you to the MM website & hope that you get as much out of it as I have, it has been a lifesaver for me, without it I would be a very lonely person.
Love Cazikins xx
:cat48: :cat48:
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Welcome Lyn, hope the Menoherbs give you some relief, this meno is bugger to cope with, but this site is a life saver.. :)
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Thankyou everyone. I'm not 40 yet and thought I was cracking up - minus 3 outside & sleeping with no covers !! Did a test and got a positive result but thought I was on my own ( my doctor doesn't believe anyone under 50 can start the change !!) What a wonderful website ::) ;D
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Hi Claire - welcome to the forum/menomadhouse ;D ;D
Dr's!! What do some of them know?? ::) :beat: :beat:
Love taz x :bounce: :bounce:
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Thank Taz - I've got a funny feeling I may be visiting this site quite often ! :) I feel like the new kid in school !
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Hi
Nightsweats seems to be one of the worst problem we seem to have!!!!!
Try wearing sleepwear in a special fabric that wicks the moisture away - go to "Coolsleepwear.co.uk" - we set up this co. recently and so far the feedback has been great, so its not just me that finds its really helped to feel dry and comfortable. The fabric was originally for sweaty atheletes!!!(which says it all). Just have a look and read of the website!!
Hope it helps and if you do decide to try it would love to hear your feedback and put the word around, if you're pleased, to your friends.
All the best
Carolyn
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I sleep in my birthday suit, on a bath towel, with a bath sheet over me and a summer weight duvet, and still i feel on fire when i get them, also soaking wet, can sometimes go over an hour between each one now, but did get them every 15/20mins.
In the last 24hrs, i have had 17, last Friday my diary read 22, i am taking sage & starflower oil as recommed by another member, so hope next Friday it will be even less...
N.B My poor hubby sleeps in thermals.. :-\
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Last night head on pillow, 3mins then first hot sweats, bad again for the next 3hrs but then.......had a gap of 1hr 45mins & 2 of 1hr 30mins, in between hot sweats, hope this continues :)
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Hi Rosebush,
Glad to hear you've had a better night :) Its amazing how even the smallest improvement cheers you up .
I find myself getting quite excited if I've had a better time of it ( with the flushes that is ) how sad is that !
Though sadly these "improvements" tend to be a bit short lived :( its often a case of one step forward and two back.
However on a brighter note I do think that after 5yrs of the sweats from hell and other c**p before that ....dare I say it things DO seem to be going in generally the right direction.
Its only when you start to feel just a tiny bit better that you realise how awful its all been .
Sooo hang on in there all you hot ladies its got to end sometime !
love to all, Sarah b x
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Hi Sarah,
Nice to hear you are on the up, how long has it been since your last period, everyone seemed to tell me, after 2yrs period free, things would improve, its been 2yrs 7mths for me, soooo really hoping i follow in your foot steps... 6yrs of these blooming sweats have nearly sent me demented.. :-\
Just need to lose 2 stone, get rid of my aching joints, and i will skipping all the way to the sea side ::) Oh forgot the face lift ;D ;D
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Hi all,
I am new to this forum, what a wonderfull idea.
I have been suffering with Menopause since i was 40. I am now 52.
When i first had symtoms (very heavy & prolonged periods,blurred vision,dizzy spells & more) no one ever suggested it could be menopause.I was sent for blood tests and a hystroscopy, i was told it was hormonal so i was put on HRT. At that time in my life i had no real knowledge of menopause & as no one suggested it. I put on a stone in weight in a month & became so depressed i took myself off the HRT, & basically was told there was nothing more to be done.
Life was pretty awfull for a couple of years as i thought these symtoms, which were getting worse, were a serious illness, my Docter just kept fobbing me off.Then a friend who is 6yrs older than me started having the same things,& it was fantastic because at last i knew what it was.
Seven years ago my symtoms moved on to anxiety attacks, the flushes & night sweats started, extreme tiredness, awful forgetfulness, lack of concentration & i tried to cope with herbs but after a few weeks they would ware off, so i went to a new docter who suggested anti depressant which i was totally against, so i just got worse & worse. Life was just awfull. I went back to the Docter in tears & he persuaded me to go on the anti depressents & my life changed. Within 3 weeks i felt so much better. I didnt want to tell people i used them, but they really helped, even my night sewats seemed to stop.
I took myself off them 6 months ago & had no ill effects mentally, infact the only problem i have is the night sweats came back with avengance. So my point is dont be frightened of anti depressents, they really helped me.
My periods stopped 3 yrs ago & i still have most of the symtoms, sometimes worse than others.
I dont take HRT as mum & grandma had breast cancer, but i use all sorts of herbs in rotation. I feel i have gone this long without it & whats the point, esp if the symtoms come back when you stop it.
I just hope it all ends soon as i have now had 12 years of it!!!!!
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Hi again Rosebush,
Just to say my last period was almost THREE years ago. I really thought i'd be out the other side by now :(
BUT hearing what you have said Holiday I'm filled with dread !
My night sweats started when I was 39 and I suppose its the last 5yrs that have been the worst.... I'm 49 now and like you, Holiday I also feel there's little point starting HRT now and anyway, I know for some it really helps but for quite a few it just seems to replace one set of problems with another ...hey ho what ARE we to do ?
I've got to agree with you Rosebud on the "demented " front . Its hard to see sometimes why the sweats do that to us but its just soooooo relentless and after years and years of it even the most robust of us start to buckle under the strain !
love Sarah b x
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Hi girls, just to say i had a gap of 3hrs 20mins last night, this has never happened before ??? the following 3hrs were not so good, but something does seem to be changing, spoke to friend yesterday, and her sister went through this faze, for a few months, but sweats fought back again, for a further 6mths then stopped :) so it may not be the light i was hoping for yet, but staying with my happy thoughts for a while anyway.. :)
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I too ended up on anti-depressants recently, triggered by horrendous workplace stress and family problems, but coupled with the terrible meno symptoms I am having, made me unable to cope. :'(
Took them for 3 months, and couldnt personally cope with the numb feeling they gave me. Having stopped them, what I hadn't realised was that they really did control the sweats/flushes. Now they are back worse than ever before. I find them so embarrasing.....sitting in a trendy hair salon, and the glamourous young stylist is running her hands over my hair discuusing what to do to my hair.........and my head starts to boil like a kettle and rivers of sweat start running down my face and through my hair :o :'(......
I have had no sleep for the last few weeks as I am burning up all night, still with that fizzy aching feeling all over my body which I have mentioned in an earlier post.
I am going back to the doctors next week, dont know whether to try the HRT, as maybe this will also help my mood, or whether to go down the 'natural route. I read that this takes a month to kick in....and quite frankly i cant take this for another month :'( :'( :'(
Oh help...what to do?????? (thats one of my other probs, indecisiveness, even down to what to put on each morning, takes me ages to decide and I can even get palps just thinking of what to wear :o
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Hi Hotmomma,
So sorry to hear your tale...its truly awful isn't it. I can very much connect with your experience...it really is the embarressment thats so hard never mind the HEAT :meltdown:
I also sympathise with that awful feeling of not being able to cope or decide about things its barmy isn't it ! why our hormones reduce us to this is a mystery to me .
However ....do not despair this too shall pass(even though it doesn't feel like that just now) What I would say is ..if you can ..try to reduce your workload and go easy on yourself for a bit. This is a passing phase and eventually you do begin to feel more "normal" ha ha , whatever that is !
Oh and I have found that if you carry a little fan ...the paper ones are nice if you can find them, then as soon as you start to heat up ,don't be shy just whip out your fan and no need to say a word ...YOU ARE TOO HOT quite obviously . For me this seems to reduce the embarressment a bit but you have to be a bit brave at first and reach for that fan.
People often say to me that it looks rather nice ! !
anyway you take care now and hope you soon get some relief
love Sarah b x
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Hi Hotmomma - I can sympathise totally with what you are saying. A few months ago I would be drenched every twenty minutes day and night. I would literally drip from my forehead right down into my socks. I had to take spare clothes into work (I am a TA in a school) and I was forever forgetting my words and what I was going to say. My sleep was non-existent and I was barely functioning. I finally gave in to asking for HRT only to face a battle with my particularly unsympathetic lady GP. I changed to another one who, together with a gynae who I was also being seen by at the time, decided that I should try Evorel Sequi patches. Within a day of putting on the first patch my sweats disappeared totally. My sleep improved 100%, my brain function is almost back to pre-meno days, my hair stopped falling out, my nails have grown. My depressed mood has gone - maybe due to actually sleeping for longer than half an hour at a time! I have put on half a stone since I started in December but I think that my quality of life has changed so much that I can cope with that.
I am sorry that I tried to "beat" it for so long before finally admitting that HRT would improve my life. I know that I may have to go through the same symptoms again eventually and that I have increased my risk of breast cancer but I have also hopefully helped my heart and bones together with keeping my urinary and vaginal system healthy. For me it has been like being transformed.
It would seem that natural remedies can work for some people for a while but for the really severe hot sweats then I really do think that unfortunately HRT is the only answer. There is no way of knowing how long this will last either - I put up with the sweats for almost two years and it really pulled me down. Me? Go on HRT? No Way!! is how I used to think and it gets me rather annoyed now when women say to me "Oh, I would never go on that I have managed just fine without" because, until you really experience the most unpleasant side effects of the meno then you really have no idea of what it feels like.
Sarah - your idea of a little fan is a good one and I found for the first year of the flushes (before the sweats kicked in) then it did help but against full blown, hair and clothes saturating sweats, it really did no good at all :'( The sweating is not to do with being too hot for some reason so the fan did no good at all, whereas, for the flushes it did cool me down. Does that make sense?
Hope this helps.
Love Taz x :bounce:
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Hi Taz2
Just on the subject of the fan..its not so much the cooling effect 'cos as you quite rightly say and believe me I know only too well :hotflash:
when you get the saturating ones, well theres not a lot you can do really to maintain your decorum. BUT for me at least just using my fan seems to send out the signal that I'm well aware of whats happening and I'm in control of the situation, thus allowing those around to stop wondering if I'm ill or having some sort of breakdown !
I do understand what you mean and I'm glad you have been able to get some relief with the HRT.
Ive had very severe sweats for 5yrs ! ! now ....surely the end must be in sight aaaaaaaaaarrrgggghhhh
love Sarah b x
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If HRT helps i say take it, if you feel its for you, some members swear by it, if i had been younger i would have pushed for another HRT that worked for me, but after 6yrs of sweats and coming now up to 59, i am to old for it, so praying like sarah the symptoms are starting to die down a bit now, If when you stop HRT they return you could be at a different faze of you life, and able to cope with them.
Who would be a woman ...so many decisons to make... and too tired to make them :'(
In have a small spanish fan, its years old, and when i get a hot sweat, i just start waving it around, saying its hot in here dont you think, and everyone seems to agree... :-*
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Well my break from constant hot sweats, didn't last very long, had a dreadful night last night :'(
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Well, just to let you know that I went back to the docs today....asked for HRT in place of the anti-d's.....AND SUCCESS....CAME AWAY WITH THREE PACKS OF KLIOFEM. :banana: :banana: :banana:
Am praying for the miracle....and have just taken the first one in the hope that it might kick in by tonight.....(well I can live in hope can't I) and the flushes and sweats might just diminish slightly so that I can get a wink or two of sleep......
watch this space....will keep you informed ;)
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Well HM you do sound a happy bunny, really hope they start to work quickly for you, who knows, you may over sleep tomorrow. :clapping:
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:hotflash: :hotflash: :hotflash:
Oh help.......I'm getting worse NOT better!......day 3 of the HRT......
I'm sure I read on here somewhere that as soon as peeps go on the HRT a massive improvement happens...am I expecting too much? Had the worst night ever last night, boiling sweats 3 times an hour, drenched to the skin.
Whats worrying me now, is that my doctor DID say to me that if the sweats are caused by my anxiety....then the HRT may not necessarily work...... :'(
Anyone know the usual length of time before the HRT kicks in?
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Oh No! all i can say is HRT did not stop my sweats, i tried it for 4/5mths, that was 5yrs ago...... I am sure when other HRT users, come on line, they will be able to give you up to date info. :-*
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Hi Hotmomma - are you on patches or pills? I think that the patches work more quickly - mine stopped my sweats completely within a day - and I was having between 40 and 50 in a 24 hour period.
It takes at least three months to find out if the particular type of HRT you have been prescribed is going to be effective for you I think. I was lucky and have had no side effects, apart from the usual pmt and heavy periods for the first two months, but each month I wait for the sweats to return... ::)
Taz x
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hi Taz, I am on pills.....(continual.).
last night was as bad as ever......I am existing on about 2 or three hours sleep a night I think......the rest is spents fanning myself and drying myself......I could almost cope with that....but the way my whole body aches and'fizzes' when I have the sweats is so uncomfortable, I dont know what to with myself :'(.
I suppose I just have to be patient ::)
Any ideas how long i should give it, before I ask for a change of pills?
Also, I read up on my pills (Kliofem) and they seem to be quite a high doseage, (2mg)......is that normal? Or has the doc given me the higher dose because of the severity of my symptoms?
thanks again for all of your help, it really does make a difference being able to come on here and have a whinge ;D
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Hi Everyone
I haven't been around for a while, but I'm back!! ;D
Well, hot flushes. I saw a Homeopathist last September. After a LONG
consultation (they go into your past, as do most alternative therapies),
and a course of 'pills' prescribed and made up by her, I haven't had a single
hot flush since last October!!! I stopped the 'pills' after gradually reducing
mid November, and have never looked back!
Whether it was the homeopathic treatment that worked, or whether the
flushes would have resolved anyway I will never know, but I recomend trying it.
I am still in the menopause, having a period between 6 and 9 weekly, varying in quantity. I have also bought one of those magnetic thingies that you wear in your underwear to help symptoms, I'm not convinced by that yet, but I'll try a bit longer.
I still have a lot of nights when I don't sleep through, but no hot flushes!!
Angel :)
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Hi Angel - its nice to see you back.
I'm pleased that you are flush-free at the moment and hope that you are over the worst but I am being a little cautious on the congratulations as, while I still had my periods every three months or so, my flushes also started then tailed off again. Once my periods became really far apart my flushes returned with a vengeance :'( :'( So, what I am saying is, I hope that you continue in the same way but, if not, then enjoy the "now".
What preparation did your homeopathist make up for you? My now retired GP was a homeopathist and he gave me some wonderful help over the years - we always tried the homeopathic approach first if possible and sometimes it worked and sometimes it didn't but at least I knew that we had gone down the more natural route first.
Taz x
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Hi Taz
I agree, it may be temporary, it may or may not be due to the homeopathy remedy, but whatever, I'm happy for now ;D
It was something called pulsatilla I think.
Nice to see you are still around here :)
Angel :)
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Hi all, I'm new on here. Have read many of your replies, here's mine.
I'm not coping very well, have tried various herbal remedies which work for a limited time. Unable to take HRT, my GP is not interested in helping.
Have suffered for 4 years now since having an ovary removed and I am heartily sick of waking in the small hours in a puddle. Please, someone tell me when this will end!!!
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Hi all,
I'm another of you that would kill for more than an hour and a half sleep at a time! I have always slept with fan on, it stops me hearing the llittle noises but now I need it to keep cool. My hubby says "oh, sleeping in a gale force wind again, are we? (LOL) We are having quite hot weather at the moment - 19 - 20 degrees c at night. YUK!! Never thought I'd wish for winter. On the funny side, last night my hubby had a hot flush, only for a few seconds (sympathy pains???) but later told me that being me would drive him nuts. Undersanding comes from the strangest places. Also, what is starflower oil, never heard of it.
take care everyone
Kim
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Hi Bluelily
Glad youve found what helps you, as mentioned many ladies have tried black cohosh, also it has been mentioned somewhere on here that one can only take it for 6months,also says it can damage the liver and something else not sure what,sorry i dont mean to alarm you. I took it for a while and i have to say it did the trick but only for awhile then it came back so im taking something else and that seems to have helped. Good luck with it and hope it keeps it at bay
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Over the last 6yrs i have tried every herbal known for hot flushes, some made no difference at all, others helped for a few wks, at present i am trying sage & starflower, my day sweats are a little easier but night one's are dreadful. I get the feeling of doom before one starts, which can make me feel sick, then i am soaking wet, this goes on all night, and i feel so exhausted, from Feb have gone into my 7th year now, and have said, i never ever thought it would last this long, this morning i was at my lowest ebb, just wanted to stay in bed, in the dark, and forget the world outside, even after getting up, everything i do takes great effort, thank heaven for my dear hubby..x
What ever anyone try's i hope it works for you..
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Oh poor you! I do so sympathise......i stopped my hrt 3 weeks ago (after only a few weeks on them) and had my first period for 7 months.....and now, the sweats are starting again.....and the flushes......
am going back to doc this week for patch.......ho hum.....this is certainly a rollercoaster....... :'(
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Hi Girls,
Well i had to resort to sleeping tab last night, even with them, the hot sweats break through normally every 1hr BUT i must have been so exhausted, i sleep from midnight until 5am !!!!! then had really bad hot sweat BUT fell back to sleep for a further 2,5hrs :) just getting some sleep made the world of difference, it was hubby's birthday today & we have been out to dinner...had a great time...this just goes to prove how damaging sleep deprevation can be :'( Feel really tired now so off to to bed and just praying for some sleep.... :'(
Sleep tight.xx
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Hi Rosebush
Just wanted to send you :hug: :hug: and hope you get a good night's sleep again tonight
Michelle x
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Newbie here, and today I learned that at least I'm not the only one who assumed hot flashes and other symptoms would disappear after a year with no period.
I guess I'll wait another year before debating quality vs quantity of life and HRT... I was briefly on Livial (tibolone) which stopped the sweats within 24 hrs but the breakthrough bleeding was a deal breaker. At least with a period, I knew when and how long.
At any rate, I have a suggestion for night sweats... it may seem counter-intuitive, but I keep a hair dryer next to my bed and --half-asleep-- switch it on high and dry myself after an attack. It's been my experience that the hot flash is over quickly but the sweat and sodden clothes linger and it is the clamminess which is so uncomfortable.
I hope this helps.
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Hi Barking sands and welcome to the forum from me :welcomemm:
Thanks for the tip about the hairdryer - at the moment, due to HRT, I have the luxury of dry, sleepfull nights but I well remember the waking up every half hour or so. Luckily I always woke up about a minute before the sweat hit so I could actually get out of bed and stand there dripping without getting the bedclothes soggy but you are right in that it is the clammy "afterness" that is so unpleasant.
The general medical opinion seems to be that meno symptoms such as hot flushes reach their peak two years after the last period.
Good to hear from you.
Love Taz x
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thank you Taz.
Also, my doctor who is Thai advised me to eat more soy. I don't see it mentioned here as often as other remedies. I admit that I don't eat it as much as other food, ie, pasta. Soy pasta? Is there such a thing?
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I have not had a period for 3 years but the flushes and night sweats have been terrible for 4 years. I have 18-20 a day. I tried black cohosh, sage, soya,every combination in the health shops and whatever I could find on the internet. Nothing has worked. I wear cotton clothes and have cotton bedding. I have fans all over the house and on my desk at work, it is awful. I am so tired and bad tempered and I am constantly weepy and fed up. I come home at night and have to change into a cotton nightie, my clothes are constantly wet at work and my hair curls and frizzes from being damp. My GP refused HRT because of the risks of breast cancer, she said it doubles your chances. I argued I had read everything I could finbd and knew the risks. She told me they don't prescribe HRT, no one ever died of a hot flush but breast cancer kills. I left the suregery in tears with a prescription for vanlaflaxine and one for migraine tablets. I took the anti depressants for 12 months but came off as I was still flushing and still weepy and bad tempered. I am not on anyhting now, I worry myself silly about the risks of cancer, my family are all telling me to try HRT as I am so bad. My husband says I have no quality of life and he hates seeing me like this, plus it worries my kids. I can't believe it is this bad but keep thinking it is 4 years so surely it must finish soon. Thanks for letting me get it off my chest, sorry I went on so long
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see another doc that one sounds rubbish.
no-one should have to put up with 4yrs of symptoms. quality of life is v important. i weighed up pros 'cons of hrt v cancer and stilll gone down the hrt route ( early days yet for real results) and as someone who works with cancer pts i know what im risking, we should be allowed to make our own choices not be dictated to by docs. as you say it must worry the kids im just glad mine are no longer at home, and what they do see they regard as a joke.
and dont apologise for going on, where else can you do it but here and be really listened to and thoroughly understood :foryou:take care
juliax
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Hi Lillybee :foryou:
I would agree with Julia if you are not happy with the treatment you are receiving then go see another doctor, you shouldn't have to suffer as you are without being given some kind of help.
By the way I don't know if you have tried SoyIsoflavines I tried them for hot flushes and sweats and found they worked for me, I am sure you know that although something might work for one person there is no guarantee that they will work for you, but it's worth a go.
Love,
Tricia :-* :-* :-*
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Thanks for the replies. I did try soya Isoflavines, I have been back and forward to the health shop and have tried just about every natural remedy available. Might start at the beginning and try them again
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Hi Lillybee - I am sorry you are having such a rough time with the flushes/sweats. I would say find yourself a new GP! Mine refused to give me HRT and it was only once I had been referred to a gynae for bladder probs and he told me that if I had been taking HRT then my problems would not have occurred (or at least not as early) that I was finally prescribed HRT.
Like a lot of ladies I didn't want to go down the HRT route but in the end my quality of life had become so poor that I was willing to take the cancer/dvt risks. I have patches, better for the liver, and my every-20-minute-day-and-night-hot-sweats disappeared within a few hours! I know I was lucky to have found one that worked straight away and I know that I am probably just delaying the meno for a few years but to live a normal life again has been great.
Love Taz
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Hi Babs - thanks for all the info. You are right in that HRT can only delay the symptoms for some women but others are ok once they come off it. It is reckoned that for the first three to four months after stopping HRT symptoms will be bad but after that they may tail off. I really didn't want to go down the HRT route but it was becoming impossible to keep working and just keep functioning at all really. I thought that maybe in 5 years time I will have to go through the same symptoms again but life is unpredictable anyway and I decided that if I could have a few more years feeling more like "me" (energy, freedom from urinary tract infections, a sex life(!) hair that wasn't falling out, lessening of joint pains etc) then I would give it a go. I try not to worry about 5 years time - after all I might not even be here - but I can see that it would be a shock to those women whose GP's didn't explain the delay factor.
Having said all of that I have two friends who recently stopped HRT. They had both taken it for 10 years and took 6 months to gradually reduce their dosage. Both of them suffered for the first 2 months and they are now both symptom free - apart from vaginal dryness and joint pains. These are part and parcel of being an "older" woman I think :(
I recently read that too much soya is not good for us either - moderation is the key - as it mimics oestrogen and can lead to breast cancer - who'd be a woman!!!!! I'm not sure how that works for the Japanese population - maybe they exercise more?
Love Taz x
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The reason I have delayed so long in asking for hrt is the thought of returning to this when I come off. My doctor says the symptoms can be severe because the ovaries shut down a bit at a time and that throws the hormones out and causes a lot of the problems. Taking HRT can get me past the stage where the ovaries no longer function. I can then have withdrawal from the change in hormones but it should be a shorter process. It sounds simple put that way but I know it isn't always the case. There are women who have terrible flushes long term after finishing HRT but some don't. It is individual choice. The way I am now if I get 2 years of feeling normal I think it is worth the risk.
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Well I am new to Menopausematters, so hello everyone ;)
My husband has been encouraging me to join a web forum to try and help me cope with the menopause. I can't believe that he is actually encouraging me to stay at my computer longer, I never need an excuse 8)
Anyway, my story is that I have been on the menopause, a proper since September last year when I went 'cold-turkey' from HRT as I was having so many problems after my 'Hysteria' :D and 'Ovarian' - ectomies in April 2006. I've been on an enforced menopause cycle since August 2005 due to Endometriosis. I am 43 this December and feel 63! :'( I was a healthy, fit and muscular person before all the problems, I have put on 4 stone in weight since it all started in Feb 2005, and it's driving me to desperation >:( But I now know I am not alone, and that there are many of you out there that are as unhappy and miserable as me ;D The funny thing is that my mother who is 63 this year is finally on her menopause after paying for her HRT for nearly 20 years. It is hysterical when we get together because we both 'flash' and look like a pair of beakens, have bizarre conversations and get despressed together when we eat things we shouldn't because we're feed up!!! :)
I am currently taking Ymea which a friend of my husband recommended. It seems to have helped a little I have been taking it since March, so the flushes have lessened but the weight is killing me, I am swimming 3-4 times a week, eating healthy organic foods and limiting alcohol and coffee etc. I have been told that I am retaining a lot of water so now on a herbal water tablet to see if that has any affect. Does anyone have any suggestions for me.
Thanks ladies and I promise this is the only outburst you will have from me.
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I've just started HRT this week at the age of 53. So far its day 5 and the flushes seem to be diminishing a little during the daytime, although I haven't yet noticed any great difference during the night. I've been having flushes on and off for about five years and had been taking sage capsules which seemed to help. However, during the past month they intensified to the point where I felt I couldn't bear it a moment longer. The increased discomfort has coincided with my periods becoming erratic (before this, despite having flushes, my periods had been very regular).
What I don't understand is this "delaying the menopause" issue. As I understand it, HRT is described to alleviate the symptoms of the menopause not to stop the menopause. I am 53 now, if I stay on HRT until I'm 55, surely by that time my ovaries will have shut down so any residual symptoms should be minimal? Or am I missing something?
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It appears that the symptoms we get are due to the loss of oestrogen from the body. By keeping the oestrogen levels high the body is not adjusting to losing the natural oestrogen. When HRT is stopped the body has to adjust again to low oestrogen and has to go through the same process of adjustment. Hopefully, HRT keeps us healthier in some ways for longer i.e. keeping the vaginal tissues healthy, the bladder neck stronger, bones and heart healthier but, it does seem, that a lot of women do have to still return to the same symptoms on stopping HRT. I just hope that by then I will be too old to care... ;D
Love taz x
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I'm encouraged by the experienced of my 2 friends who are aged 55/56. One took HRT for 2 years and has just come off it, the other has never taken it. They both say that whilst they are still having a few hot flushes, they definitely feel the worst is over now. My feeling is that the friend who took HRT at least had a couple of much more comfortable years than the one that didn't.
I'm just hoping that HRT will get me through while I'm still working. Loss of sleep and dripping with sweat at hourly intervals doesn't make for a happy day in the office!
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hi
Im with you om that its work that makes coping so hard, i aim ,if all goes well to try and come of hrt when i retire whenever that may be.
julia
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Hot flushes
The hot flush, or flash, is well known as the classic menopausal symptom and affects 60–85% of menopausal women. Hot flushes and sweats are called vasomotor symptoms and vary immensely in both their severity and duration; for many women, they occur occasionally and do not cause much distress, but for about 20% they can be severe and can cause significant interference with work, sleep and quality of life. Women are affected by vasomotor symptoms on average for about 2 years but, for about 10%, symptoms can continue for more than 15 years.
Hot flushes usually last 3–5 minutes and are thought to be caused by a change in the temperature-controlling part of the brain.Normally, there is a daily pattern of rises and falls in your body temperature, being lowest at about 3am and highest in the early evening. These small changes are not normally noticed, but a menopausal woman may flush with every temperature rise, whether these are normal changes or not – for example, moving between areas of different temperature or having a hot drink – because of a change in the setting of the temperature control centre in your brain; your body thinks that it is overheating even when it isn't. To try to cool your body down, a variety of chemical reactions cause the blood vessels in the skin to open up, giving the sensation of a rush of heat, and sweat glands release sweat to dissipate heat.
It is believed that the changes in various hormone levels that occur around the time of the menopause, lead to the change in the setting of the temperature control centre, but the exact underlying mechanism is still unclear.
Other factors that can also cause flushes include being overweight, alcohol, excess caffeine, spicy foods, monosodium glutamate and some medications. Eating a healthy diet and losing weight if necessary can be helpful. Other simple measures that can help include:
• wearing cotton clothing rather than man-made fibres
• wearing loose thin layers of clothing rather than thick tight-fitting clothes
• keeping your bedroom temperature fairly cool at night – either leave a door or window open or consider a fan (partner permitting of course!).
Flushes affect every woman differently and, for many, no specific treatments will be required. When flushes are embarrassing, disruptive and affecting your quality of life, then help is available and your doctor will give you an individualised treatment plan – we are all unique!
Headaches, palpitations (sensation of heart racing) and dizziness can be associated with vasomotor symptoms. Excess caffeine can worsen palpitations, so take coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks in moderation.
Tell us what works for you.
:'( :-[
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Oh Marg - welcome to the forum. Please don't look so sad - now that you have found us lot even the bad times will seem much easier to cope with :hug:
Love Taz x :)
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Ladies how many of you, have been period free, for 3yrs and are still having hot sweats. :'(
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Oh Rosebush - you have my utmost sympathy. I hate to say this but apparently something along the lines of 15% of women experience hot sweats into their... hate to type this..... 70's
I was at a family wedding at the weekend and my poor mother in law (who last had a period 25 years ago) was dripping. I had to help her put her make-up back on as she had just got changed, did her face and hair, and then was assailed by a vicious sweat. She has tried most things over time. She had HRT in her fifties but it didn't stop the flushes. I am no totally convinced that it is not something else but her GP is of the old school and just pats her hand when she tells him how dreadful things are and offers her Valium!
Sending you a cooling breeze. Actually there is a dreadful storm here - right overhead - I hate thunder but the rain is welcome.
Love Taz x
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Dear Rosebush
I have been without periods for just over three and a half years and still having the flushes. Cant say I've noticed them decreasing substantially yet - I live in hope. At present the weather is very hot and I am pretty volcanic with them. Never dreamt it would go on like this. Many a time feel very panicky and queezy when I get them. God knows I hope this wont go on and on, had just about enough of it by know.
Best wishes from Meg
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Oh Taz think i will be committed long before i reach 70 :'( i am having to take a mild sleeping tablet once, sometimes twice a week due to exhaustion, everyday i get up i feel worse than when i went to bed.. :'( like you Meg, i never thought the sweats would be like this, had them now for 6.5yrs, and although i get some relief if i let myself get freezing cold, this effects my joints as i have Arthritis, i do however get longer gaps some nights, so maybe there will be a change soon...i hope...
To put the question in another way, how many ladies only had hot sweats for a short time, & did they just stop or get less as time went on.. :-\
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Rosebush - I'm sorry not to have time to read all of your posts on this but have you been tested lately for other reasons for your sweats? It is just a thought but so often we blame symptoms on the meno when there may be a different cause entirely.
Love Taz x
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Had thyriod checked Taz, but came back ok, so Gp has put sweats down to meno :'(
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An overactive thyroid makes you feel generally too hot. You can feel as hot as you would on a sweltering summer day when its the middle of winter. A person with an overactive thyroid will be the one in a T shirt when everyone else is in a coat. However, you don't get the sudden intense heat of a meno hot flush, which on a cold day can leave you shivering a few minutes later. I reckon you can always spot a hot flusher by the cardigan on/cardigan off/cardigan on/cardigan off ... routine!
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An overactive thyroid makes you feel generally too hot. You can feel as hot as you would on a sweltering summer day when its the middle of winter. A person with an overactive thyroid will be the one in a T shirt when everyone else is in a coat. However, you don't get the sudden intense heat of a meno hot flush, which on a cold day can leave you shivering a few minutes later. I reckon you can always spot a hot flusher by the cardigan on/cardigan off/cardigan on/cardigan off ... routine!
That made me smile, the on/off cardi is me to a T. I have an over active thyroid but I believe once the medication has stavbilised it it isn't a problem. I take tablets and my bloods are normal. I never know if I prefer summer or winter. In summer I am too hot but when I am dripping I don't get so icy cold and I am wearing less clothes. In winter I coll down quicker but the shivering is worse and I am cold in between because I can't wear jumpers etc. Tough choice ::)
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Am bumping this up for the Starflower content. Start at page 1 of this thread for information - a member called Starflower posts about using the oil.
Love Taz x
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Am bumping this up for the Starflower content. Start at page 1 of this thread for information - a member called Starflower posts about using the oil.
Love Taz x
Hi, i have started starflower oil just under two weeks ago after reading about it here, i am taking 1000mg, the flushes are still with me but the amount and the severity of them has lessoned a great deal and although still waking in the night i would say i am sleeping better than i was so i am feeling hopefull that after being on it a bit longer will make that side of the nightmare a bit better, so thanks to all who have suggested it as i have been told by so many that nothing works and so had refused to waste my cash on anything before. Good luck and hope this helps some of you. XX
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LP i used Starflower oil 1000mgs with sage tabs, after about 6wks i did noticed a slight fall in day time sweats, but my night one's were just as bad, so now i am trying Menopace...but good luck with SF and hope it works for you.. :-*
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I don't know whether it is the muggy weather or not but over the last 3 nights I have has sweats like no other sweats, even to the point of sleeping with no covers on at bar a pair of knickers......who was the eejit who said "oh! I haven't had any night sweats, only flushes during the day ;D ;D ;D ", mmmmm....never say I haven't had again Tricia as you are chancing it ::) (me talking to myself :-\).....I have never known sweats like this, hot flushes have gone from being practically nothing to sheesh!!!!! see you all in freezer aisle in tescos then :hotflash: I am drinking so much cold water to try to cool down and then all I am doing is running to the loo.......but I think it is all being sweated out....I really feel for those of you who have been having these sweats for ages and got them all the time.......wondering if standing under a cold shower will help any??????
Obviously Soy Iso is not doing what it is meant to be doing.....well it was for a while wonder if I have become immune to it.....rambling I know, do I care no way......wonder if I should try the Menopace.....use up SoyIso first then perhaps try the Menopace.......Maybe that last period knocked everything off kilter and now my hormones don't know where they are......well maybe if I talk to them nicely they will just go away again......."nice hormones go back to sleep".............I think I am cracking up here :stupid:
Thank the lord I have an appointment with my lovely lady doctor to test BP ;D ;D ;D at this rate it will be as high as a kite :meltdown: will talk to her as she won't try to talk me into HRT if she doesn't think it is needed, also she is good to talk to and will let me ramble until I get to the point....don't worry ladies it's just the heat going for me :steamed: honest.
Love,
Tricia :-* :-* :-*
Love,
Tricia :-* :-* :-*
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;D ;D ;D
See I am cracking up, signing my last post twice. ::)
Love,
Tricia :-* :-* :-*
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Tricia i feel for you.. :hug: I am trying Menopace, tonight will be my 7th one..so thats 1wk down, think they start to work around 4-6wks..so i am counting..
Friday & Saturday night i had sweats every 40mins BUT also stayed really hot from 1 sweat to the next, this went on for 6hrs, just could not breath, so sat up until it passed!! then fell to sleep for 50mins, got up and felt like a zombie, had this happen quite a lot over the last 3mths, anyone else get this??? :'(
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Since my early menopause started four years ago, my hot flushes gradually got worse. I only get around four hours of sleep a night if I am lucky. I used to get day flushes too, but since starting the menopace tablets the day flushes have stopped.
I also get ****ly heat when the hot flushes start. I have had to change jobs and do part time evening, as I am so tired all the time and couldn't cope with my full time job. It has taken over my life completely. Once while at work i had a hot flush and instantly got ****ly heat, I looked awful, some staff came over and asked me if I was okay. I get so embarrased with it too. I always have to have sprays of one kind or another to try and help me cool down.
Around 5 minutes after the flush I am freezing too, no happy medium. One thing that did help a little was that I bought some decent cotton bedding, and a small table fan to stand by my bed. I used to take Kalms which gave me a fantastic nights sleep, but I have a disabled son who sometimes gets up at night and my hubbie sleeps like a rock, so not able to keep that up.
If i had to go back to full time work I don't think I would have a job for long, as I am so tired and not many bosses would put up with sleepy staff :-\
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Hello to all!
I know this subject can be quite embarrassing but has anyone else felt a numbness sort of feeling in their vagina, and noticed that orgasms are not so strong?!! bloody hell just another symtom of the good old menopause??? would be grateful for anyones ideas, or coping methods!! Thanks.
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Hi all,
I generally seem to be quite warm which progresses to hot flushes with the odd cool moment here and there at the moment. I'm looking forward to this phase going away! I seem to have phases of having flushes, then they calm down before flaring up again. It's the worst they have been at the moment.
I thought it might be down to my thyroid too, (I have an overactive thyroid - Graves) and the Endo took me off all medication 7 weeks ago. But had blood test back from GP and she said it was ok. So must be the meno.
Dreamer
xx
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Hi David Essex Fan welcome to our menomadhouse.
Yes, you are right I'm afraid. This is a very little talked about part of the meno. It does not affect all ladies but it is thought to be the lack of testosterone. If you are "lucky" enough to have had a hyster and your ovaries removed (and I am not saying this lightly for those of you who have had to have one) then you can have patches to counter this effect. You are not normally prescribed them if you have an intact womb and ovaries as it can lead to ovarian cancer (the medical profession believe). They are called Intrinsa
You can progress to not being able to orgasm at all which is devastating. I felt like the wires had been cut which link all the erogenous zones i.e. from nipples to clitoris etc. The sensory system is affected and what was a pleasurable touch can be purely irritating.
I am so sorry this is happening to you. Some of us on here are currently still researching this topic. I will see if I can find the old posts on this. You can send me a pm if you dont want to talk openly on the forum.
Love Taz.
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Hi, This has been such a helpful thread. I thought I was the only one who had symptoms that were with me for a few months, then went, then came back with a vengeance. But I see that others have a stop/start experience too. I'm 50, been period-free for two years and a bit crackers for a year or two before that. For what it's worth, I've found that Sage tablets have helped reduce the severity and frequency of flushes. My night sweats have all but gone, which is a real mercy. Of course there is no way of knowing if it is coincidence, but sage is relatively inexpensive, easy to come by and no side effects that I know of. Advice is that you should take them for 3 months on, 1 month off. Does anyone else know about sage and how you should take it? I also take cod-liver oil which helps with depression, joint pains, sleeping and all sorts of things. Finally, I agree completely about keeping excess weight off and exercising regularly - really helps with the joint pains and stress too, BUT my big discovery is how the body responds to sugar. SUGAR is a no-no for me in all forms, chocolate (Boo!), alcohol (Bigger boo!), puddings, jams, cakes, sweet breads everything. Cut that out and you can reduce the flushes to almost nil.(And get very thin!) Frankly, it's worth the flush for a glass of wine or a piece of millionaire's shortbread - but I know I'll be in trouble for the next twenty-four hours. Love to know how other people get on with sage.
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In the last 'nearly' 7yrs i have tried every herbal remedy going and nothing has stopped hot sweats, still getting them 24/7, although i do sometimes get a gap of over an hour in the daytime, and longer if its cold & i walk around half naked..not a pretty sight.. :-\
Did try HRT 6yrs ago but still sweats got through.. :'( Feeling really worn out with them now, and the prospect of going into another year with them is soul destroying.. :'( :'( :'( So for anyone who has found 'something' to help keep them at bay, treat it like gold dust.. :-*
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Rosebush - see the post I put on nightsweats... amazing! May help you xx
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David Essex Fan...I have also noticed that orgasms do not last long, in fact it is gone in a matter of seconds and that is not something I had experienced before. So, now to add to the hot flushes, sleepless nights in and out of the duvet and genrally feeling rather old and no longer fresh, I have this "flash in the pan" orgasm. In fact, I have just avoided sex for the last two weeks and I have turned into this grumpy old woman at the ripe old age of 46.
I am now trying a tincture of Sage, St Johns Wort, Black Cohash and red cloves in an effort to win the battle with Mother Nature.
So glad I have found this forum as it is 2.16am and I am unable to sleep due to the hot/cold cycle.
Menomania x
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Hello Menomania - :welcomemm:
This lack of/poor orgasm is something that I think should be talked about much more. It is something that I just wasnt aware of - though I knew that men had trouble sustaining erections as they got older (well, some of them anyway!). I find it so incredibly sad that this part of our lives might be over and I'm glad that I made the most of them while I still could :) I always have to try to find the actual technical reasons for things and so I can understand that we need a certain level of hormones to ensure enough stimulation of erogenous zones etc for orgasm to happen. Some women lose far more testosterone than others at meno and these ladies are still able to orgasm successfully but others lose too much.
I get really annoyed with the medical profession who send you off in the direction of relationship counselling as if there is something wrong with your emotional feelings for your partner. Of course this can have a bearing on things but women who are in a bad relationship can usually still achieve the big 'O' by themselves. I told a really young doctor this a few months ago and he was so embarrassed that the subject of female masturbation had been mentioned. He went really red and shuffled the papers on his desk for ages!
Have a good look around the site. We are a friendly lot and there is always someone around to give you a few words of wisdom, encouragement or support.
Love Taz x
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Taz
I wish I had heard you with that Dr ;D. Quite right too. Why does the medical profession often assume relationship difficulties. Fortunately my GP isn't like that. Some Gynaecologists are more enlightened such as Professor John Studd
Jacksfullofaces xx
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Bumped up for Susie24 (or is it Susie4? :-\ :-\)
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I have just found this website. I am 48 and had hysterectomy 12 yrs ago. In the last year i have been getting all the symptoms of the menopause. I can't take HRT as I get horrid side effects. My worse problems are hot flushes and sweating all day and nights. The sweats are so embarrising and as a district nurse I am literally pouring with sweat when doing dressings etc. I have to carry a towel with me to wipe my face.
Please please someone help me with some ideas. I have started taking Black cohosh but an article on this site said it doesn't help sweats and hot flushes. What does help?????
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Have you tried Red Clover and Menopace? Also you should avoid spicy food, caffeine and alcohol. Sorry I can't be of more help. You should also carry water with you as a drink of water can help cool you down.
Jacksfullofaces
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Hi Nicki - welcome to the forum.
Did you try hrt patches or pills - or maybe both? I only ask as the pills often give side effects which are not experienced when using the patches.
Love Taz x
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Hi Ladies :),
Just wanted to say i am currently using Menopace Plus, and after 10days, i have had 2nights with only 4sweats, so feeling really good this morning, hope this continues and is not a flash in the pan....will post again to let you know if they are still working..
When i purchased them it was buy 3 items get 2nd one free, so got my Ymea which i use morning time, & got 2 MPP, so i saved £14.99, so an added bonus if they continue to cut down sweats.. :)
x
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Oooh, I'm new here, joined today and am SO glad to read the threads by David Essex Fan and Taz2. I am having exactly that problem with orgasms. I either can't get to orgasm or if I do, then its over in seconds and not as deep or strong as it was. I've never experienced this problem before and am so damned mad that the bloody menopause has caused this, as if it hasn't done enough. Now I can't even enjoy any pleasure.
I thought the problems with orgasm were due to lack of oestrogen not testosterone, because oestrogen vascularises the vagina, gives it tone and does the same for the clitoris. Without oestrogen and its toning/vascularising effect, the vagina and clitoris lose their feelings to an extent, making orgasm and sensation difficult. I thought testosterone was largely responsible for sexual desire and libido as opposed to sensation in one's nether regions. I went to my GP and explained the problem and she prescribed Vagifem which is a pessary containing a small amount of oestrogen. It worked very well, but, you can't stay on it; you can only use it for a couple of months then you have to stop. I've tried Replens, KY Jelly, Omega 7 capsules, phyto soya capsules, the lot but none of them really work. I feel as tho my sexual life is over :'( and the bloody menopause has robbed me of yet another avenue of pleasure. If anyone knows anything else that might help, please let me know.
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Ask your GP for Ovestin oestrogen cream - this is safe for long term use. I started it a week ago and it is fantastic :)
Jacksfullofaces
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Oh No!! i am on vagifem and was hoping my Gp would give me another prescription..
Taz how long have you been on Vagifem?
x
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Rosebush - I was on Vagifem for a few months but then went on HRT proper so could discontinue it.
JFF - I don't mean to be funny but Ovestin seems to carry exactly the same risks as Vagifem - they both release small amounts of oestrogen into the blood stream with the same results. Why do you think that Ovestin is safer for long term use?
Love Taz x
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Hi Taz
I know you are not being funny :). Ovestin is said to be a low oestrogen preparation which is safe for long term use. From the research I have carried out these creams are supposed to be safer then systemic HRT but there are so many contradictions about the menopause and hrt it is increasingly difficult to know just who to believe.
Only last week I read three peculiar statements about breast cancer
drinking coffee raised breast cancer risk
drinking coffee reduced breast cancer risk
vigorous exercise reduced breast cancer risk
moderate exercise did not reduce breast cancer risk
Then you get all of the menopause myths and rubbish on a few weird internet sites and in my opinion all a person can do is use their common sense and try and ignore the scaremongerers.
On this site there is a movie promoting vaginal creams as safe for usage.
I reckon poker is less confusing then the menopause club ;D
Jacksfullofaces
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I reckon you're right about the poker :)
Vagifem also has a really low concentration of oestrogen so I guess that's why the two of them come out the same in terms of risk. In fact the side effects and warnings seem to be exactly the same on the leaflets. As for all the different risks and benefits of HRT I have given up trying to work it all out.
Taz :bounce:
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Well i am not sore now, so will continue with it if Gp will do repeat script, god the things we have to put up with.. >:(
Just reading this........
Vagifem vaginal tablets release small amounts of oestrogen locally into the vaginal tissues and are used ''short-term'' to provide relief from the vaginal symptoms of the menopause, such as dryness, itching and irritation.
I note the short term use of the tabs..BUT the meno is not short term, and even when all my symptoms have disappeared ( ?) i expect the dryness will still be there, so thats not short term.. :rant:
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Hi all,
Just wanted to pass on my tip for combatting hot flashes. I use Soya Isoflavone capsules and as much of any other soya product as I can swallow (yoghurt and milk for example). It seems to work. Night flashes are minimal now, and daytime ones are much less often and far less severe. I'm 53, and have been in my menopause for at least 3 years or more. Hope you find this useful.
Blanche
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Can anyone tell me where I can purchase Meno Herbs 2? I bought them online and found them so good for hot flushes but they don't seem to be available any more. Any help appreciated!
Hot flushes
The hot flush, or flash, is well known as the classic menopausal symptom and affects 60–85% of menopausal women. Hot flushes and sweats are called vasomotor symptoms and vary immensely in both their severity and duration; for many women, they occur occasionally and do not cause much distress, but for about 20% they can be severe and can cause significant interference with work, sleep and quality of life. Women are affected by vasomotor symptoms on average for about 2 years but, for about 10%, symptoms can continue for more than 15 years.
Hot flushes usually last 3–5 minutes and are thought to be caused by a change in the temperature-controlling part of the brain.Normally, there is a daily pattern of rises and falls in your body temperature, being lowest at about 3am and highest in the early evening. These small changes are not normally noticed, but a menopausal woman may flush with every temperature rise, whether these are normal changes or not – for example, moving between areas of different temperature or having a hot drink – because of a change in the setting of the temperature control centre in your brain; your body thinks that it is overheating even when it isn't. To try to cool your body down, a variety of chemical reactions cause the blood vessels in the skin to open up, giving the sensation of a rush of heat, and sweat glands release sweat to dissipate heat.
It is believed that the changes in various hormone levels that occur around the time of the menopause, lead to the change in the setting of the temperature control centre, but the exact underlying mechanism is still unclear.
Other factors that can also cause flushes include being overweight, alcohol, excess caffeine, spicy foods, monosodium glutamate and some medications. Eating a healthy diet and losing weight if necessary can be helpful. Other simple measures that can help include:
• wearing cotton clothing rather than man-made fibres
• wearing loose thin layers of clothing rather than thick tight-fitting clothes
• keeping your bedroom temperature fairly cool at night – either leave a door or window open or consider a fan (partner permitting of course!).
Flushes affect every woman differently and, for many, no specific treatments will be required. When flushes are embarrassing, disruptive and affecting your quality of life, then help is available and your doctor will give you an individualised treatment plan – we are all unique!
Headaches, palpitations (sensation of heart racing) and dizziness can be associated with vasomotor symptoms. Excess caffeine can worsen palpitations, so take coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks in moderation.
Tell us what works for you.
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Hi all,
im new here so i will introduce myself first :) my name is rosie and I have been going through the menopause for last 3 or more years. Hot flushes and weight gain has been my main problems. I havent really taken anything for the flushes I just battle through them as best I can. But i have found some very useful information reading your posts and i think i will be looking to try something out.
But the weight issue continues for the moment anyway ???
rosie
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:welcomemm: :welcomemm:
hi rosie, nice to have you with us.
it was the hot flushes that drove me to hrt last year, it worked well, but now coming of and waiting for them to get going again!
always plenty to read about and support from other meno chicks, plus a little madness too
love poppinsxx
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Hi Rosiemay - welcome from me too :)
Love Taz x
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Hi Poppy2
I used to use Meno Herbs 2, too! However, I believe that due to some sort of legal issue they are now no longer available. The place I used to buy them from however, (online) does advocate a substitute which I have been using for a month to quite good effect. I'm not sure I can post the name or link here so if you PM me, I will give you the details
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I've been trying a combination of Black Cohosh capsules (2 x twice a day) and Sage capsules (also 2 x twice a day) and it's working wonderfully. I've been having really bad sweats for 4 years day and night and tried most things at least once including Black Cohosh a few times but the combination with Sage capsules has had a great effect. I get a great night's sleep every night and can honestly say I have had no sweats, just a very occasional warm (not hot) feeling. Long may it continue! I feel normal again!!! :D ;D
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That is excellent news!! I'm using Ladies Choice - the substitute for Meno Herbs 2. Still having sweats and flushes but not as often or as bad as I did. Not sure if its due to this new product tho, or if - after being in the meno nearly 2 years, this is just another part of the "cycle"
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I took HRT last year and quickly felt the benefit however I came off after 6 months. Not really comfortable taking it - I have had a little breast cancer scare (am all OK) and I need to have a bone density test and doctor said I had to stop HRT first. I was fine for about 3 months but now the night flushes are back with a vengeance. Not tried anything - just keep window open, even in this weather - but think I might need to look for something now as lack of sleep getting to me. I love having a bath before bed but wonder if I should give this up. :-\
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Hello ladies
I am new to thie site and hoping it can help me understand what is happening to me! I am 46 and I think I am in the perimenopause. My periods have become a bit less regular than they used to be - went 3 months without one then back to normal then missed again etc. I've also had some hot flushes - just feelings of being very hot, no sweating. The thing that is worying me is in December I had a hot flush and this caused my heart to race and I felt very dizzy when I stood up. It took ages to wear off and was really scary. Then I was fine until exactly a month later when it happened again. It's now happened a third time - with 4 weeks between each 'episode'. I saw my GP and he said it was a panic attack but didn't suugest it could be menopause related. I've been searching the net and found that it can be associated with menopause and low oestrogen levels and found your site. Has anyone else had similar symptoms and if so how have you coped?
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Hi Man Utd Fan - welcome to the forum.
The symptoms you describe sound typical of a hot flush. Mine used to make my heart race, I would get a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach and maybe the feeling of wanting to go to the loo (bowels) followed by the hot flush and then gradually the heart rate would slow down. I would feel very tired for a while after the flush. This ended up happening every 20 minutes which is why I started HRT.
I would say that you should monitor when the episodes occur so that you have something concrete to show your GP. Try not to worry - you will get used to it - honest.
Have a good look around the site. You will find lots of support on here - we are a friendly, if slightly mad, bunch of ladies.
Love Taz x
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Hi Man Utd Fan, welcome to you.
I have had the panic/heart palpitations. I also find that too much caffeine/stimulants does it for me. I have to watch how many cups of tea I have now, and have to use caffeine free tea sometimes. Wine can do it too.
Also, when the hormones start to become imbalanced, we can get rushes of adrenaline which will also make the heart race.
Keep posting, theres always someone to listen or advise.
Love yogini xxxxxxxx
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You would think that doctors would know that the flushes that come with menopause can cause these intense feelings of panic that are so difficult to cope with. It is so much more than feeling hot. It can be so intense that you just have to get out of the place you are. I wish more doctors would realise how scary these feelings that wash over you can be. There are so many women feeling like this and they must see so many of us with the same symptoms. You are not alone in all of this, visit the site for support. Welcome aboard Man Utd fan there are so many of us 'in the same boat' as you.
Meg
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Welcome to the forum Man United Fan :welcomemm:
I first started off with palpitations/anxiety/panic attacks which my doctor diagnosed as stress but then I started noting down my periods as they were becoming very eratic - very close together some months at 18/20 days followed by being 2/3 months apart. Went back to my doctor and she gave me a FSH test and hey presto I was told I was entering the peri menopause.
I had CBT training which helped me regulate my breathing during an anxiety attack and luckily these have now become far and few between. I struggled on for three years then hit rock bottom last year so started on AD's and a low dose HRT and feeling much better now. I am 46 by the way.
It sounds as though you are on the ball - keep noting down all your symptoms in a diary and take this back to your doctor as ammunition. Ask for blood tests just to rule out anything else, ie, thyroid.
Keep posting and let us know how you get on as we are a very supportive bunch on here.
Luv Jax x :worm:
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Hi girls ;), I'm so pleased to have found this site, I have been reading through and have been taking notes of your helpfull tips. Thanks
I had an hysterectomy eight years ago when I was 47. I'd been suffering with hot flushes for about six years prior to this and I had very bad bleeding in between periods. After being fobbed off by gp's for six years, being told that I was depressed. Yes I was depressed because I was ill, my partner had an affair and left me as sex became a thing of the past as I was always hot bothered unwell and bleeding. I had a hysterectomy (great) someone had listenened to me she was a new gp at our practice. All was well then I had massive panic attack and ended up fainting and going to hospital. These panic attacks would come and go sometimes they where massive and I would feel weak and shakey for days after. The sweats where as bad as before my op. Eventually after about a year I agreed to go HRT. Things improved greatly, until six weeks ago my gp says I have been on HRT too long now and has stopped giving them to me.
I'm having flushes that are worse than ever I'm having one now :sigh:. I'm sitting with the window open wearing a vest nightie sweating and it's snowing outside. I had to walk out off a shop yesterday when one came on me because Ifelt that I was going to faint.I'm having about 2 an hour.
Could anyone tell me if this is normal when stopping HRT and will it ease off?
Sorry for the long saga.
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Hi Cookie
Did you stop your HRT dead, cos if so no wondering you are suffering, if its one thing ive learnt from here is that you should be weaning of slowly, there is some info on coming of HRT, in the green menu bar to the left.
it seems very harsh your GP making you come of when you were doing OK, its seems an appt armed with the info from here printed out might do the trick.
Good luck.
Keep posting, im sure there will be others along soon with more welcomes and advice.
:welcomemm: :hug:
love poppinsxx
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thanks poppins :)
I did wean my self off them. ie: one every other day for a month then every third day. I will read some more advice on here and make that appointment with my gp. I have the windows open it's snowing and I'm boiling. This is making me feel so tired. It's reminding me how bad I felt before HRT so I am going to tell my gp I want to go back on them.
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Thank you ladies for your replies to my first post about flushes with palpitations. It is such a relief to know that I am not the only person with these problems and that there is a logical explanation (even if the thought of putting up with it for years!! is horrendous). I have started a diary of what's happening when - what I've had to drink etc to see if I can identify any triggers. Have also cut out coffee ( whch i didn't drink much anyway) and cut down on the tea - which I do tend to drink lots of! Thanx
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Hi Man utd fan, I also have to watch how much tea I drink now, and have changed to decaf which makes a difference. I find that I generally have to watch the amount of stimulants because they can react with the adrenalin, and increase the twitchy/anxious feelings. I also have to watch the blood sugar levels, and make sure I eat little and often.
Yogini xxxxxxx
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hi Ladies :)
After a terrible nights sleep (bad dreams) sweats ect. And losing the milk this morning. I found it in the cupboard, the salt was in the fridge. I have decided to go back on my hrt. I have just been like a mad woman searching my house for any hrt I had left, oh the joy when I found a weeks supply. :)
I feel that I gave it a good go without hrt. Been completely off them since 15th December.
I cant wait to feel normal again.
I will keep using this site though, as it covers so many things for us golden girls.
Thanks for being here
Cookie
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Hi Cookie - Good luck with your decision. Why did you come off in the first place and did you take the three months recommended to try to wean yourself off. I am just interested for when the time comes for me to stop - not that I am going to give it up without a fight!!
Taz x
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Hi Taz :)
Yes I did wean my self off them, taking one every other day then every third day. Was getting the flushes back at the third day stage but thought I would try and give it a go. My gp suggested I give it a go coming off them as I'd been on them for more than five years. To be honest I forgot just how bad it was in the days before HRT. I have felt as though I was losing control over the last three weeks, I guess that the HRT was well out of my system by then.
I also have osteoporosis so I think that taking HRT will be more beneficial to me than not taking them.
I have just put a repeat prescription in at gps but not really expecting to get them without seeing her.She's quite a good gp so I'm sure if I have to see her she will give me some more.
Hope you get on better than I have when you decide to come off them.
Cookiexx
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Hi Poppins, thanks for relpying, how long have you been taking the starflower for and what strengh? I have started off on 2000mg, it says on the bottle 1000mg so I thought I would double the dose. I have started drinking decaff Coffee & Tea for the last three days, Oh! have I got a headache, but I have been told it will subside it's the toxins coming out. Why do we woman have to go through so much? if it's not one thing it's another.
Love Tweedy
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Hi Tweedy
i just take the 1000mg, i take enough other pills without adding any more, im better now for doing without tea and coffee but know what you mean about that headache, not even painkillers touch a detox one :foryou:
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OMG....frequency and intensity of hot flushes has really stepped up since Christmas!
Haven't had a period since November so don't know if there is any connection,but whereas I was getting maybe one a week up until recently,now I'm on about one an hour!
But that's in the day.....nightime is just one long,soggy,exhausting flush.Sometimes I feel the heat rise within me like a furnace being stoked and I fear I'll spontaneously combust if it goes up another notch! :o
I wonder how many more meno ladies are out there dreading the forecast of a long,hot summer? ???
xx
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If it's any consolation Jilly I found that the heat didn't make any difference to the intensity of the flushes and sweats and at least if everyone else is sweating you don't feel quite so self-conscious waving your little hand-held battery operated fan around :)
Taz x
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Dear Jillymoo
I for one am one of the ladies dreading summer, that is in terms of the sweating. This sounds awful because I am really getting fed up with the winter and the dark and gloomy weather. What a state to be in when you dread heat because of the sweating. Dont think I can go through another summer of it, will have to consider what to do as I have been going on like this for four years. If I am doing physical work I am sweating for England. If I get stressed, I am sweating or in a hot shop or they just come over me at will. There is no controlling these blighters. Fully understand where you are coming from.
Meg
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Hi Ladies..I'm fortunate that so far..I only get the odd flush during the day...((since hrt) but at night...that's another matter! I don't know what is worse...the sweats or the chills that follow...or am I on my own with the chills??
love Soos xx
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Nope Soos,I get the chills after too......bloomin nightmare isn't it?
These last two nights I've seemed to spend the whole time either throwing the duvet off, and flapping my nightie up and down like some demented flasher,or snuggling back under it with the addition of a pashmina draped around my head! :o
No wonder I'm exhausted by morning....hard work this meno thing eh? ::)
xx
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I know exactly what you mean Jilly and it was the non-stop sweats every 20 minutes day and night which finally drove me to HRT. It is so exhausting. I wish I had the answer for those of you who are still going through that dreadful soaking wet from the top of your head down to your socks kind of torture.
Taz x :hug:
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Well I've never seriously considered HRT before,but a friend of mine who was shattered every day through the same thing,has gone on some sort of patches and says she's got her life back sooooooooo..... :-\
xx
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I wish that I had resorted to it sooner. I waited about 18 months before going to the GP only to be told that she didn't agree with it and that I should try to "ride" it out!!
Eventually I got referred to a gynae because of the cystitis/bladder problems and he was incensed that I was not on HRT and he wrote to my GP requesting it.
So, if you are considering it, I would say go before you become totally exhausted as it is a long way back up!
Taz
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Hello Jillymoo,
I'm in the same boat as you, no period since about November and flushes/sweats just getting worse. I really feel that I have not been able to do my job properly for exhaustion/constantly running to the (work) kitchen for yet another bottle of water to try and combat the flushes.
I could identify wth the pashmina on head thing - my pashminas have come into their own since this started, they are on and off all the time!
I'm keeping the OH awake too - but he doesn't dare complain, poor love.
So I think I am going to the dr. I'm pretty disappointed with myself, its taken all of two weeks to reach this decision.
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It's right about the old Pashminas isn't it? TBH,although I'd had three pretty ones bought for me in the past,I'd never really seen the point of them until I was hit by the flush/chill rollercoaster.They've proved most useful lately though :)
And by coincidence,I bumped into my GP's wife today in Waitrose,and was having a moan about it all.She asked me why I hadn't been to see him about it and I said,as I didn't feel I wanted to start any HRT therapies,I didn't think there was any point.She said that a fellow GP's wife had undergone a course of acupuncture for her meno symptoms,and that Jeremy was so impressed at the results,he was keen to find a 'suitable candidate'! :o
Actually,I'm not that bothered about needles,so I might well pop in and ask him if I could try it.I presume it's private treatment though,so cost would be a factor.
xx
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I've had acupuncture for other things Jilly - can't say it worked but it was an enjoyable experience so good luck with that. Let us know how you get on.
Love Tax x
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I got my repeat prescription for my HRT. I was made up in fact I was delighted :). Needless to say there was a very stern note attached to it telling me to make an appointment to review my medies.
I've only been back on my HRT since Monday, my sweats and flushes are still coming in quick and fast but they dont seem to be lasting as long. I've had two very bad head aches almost migrains I don't know if that is because I've gone back on my HRT. I used to suffer pre menstral migrain. Just wondering if it's connected.
Hope all you lovely ladies can find what suits you to help with all the probs that come along to us golden girls.
PS. I'm 55 on 23rd this month. I was my friends chief bridesmaid last August. I have just been asked to be bridesmaid for another friend in September with my 2 lovely friends.I have laughed about this at my age, but I'm honoured that I've been asked again. Got to lose a bit of wait now to get into my frock ;D
The motto to this story is there is life on the meno with a bit of help from HRT. ;)
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Bet you'll make a lovely bridesmaid x x :-*
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Hi Cookie :)
Going slightly OT here,but I'm also to be Chief Bridesmaid/Matron of Honour (I'm far too young at 52 to be a 'Matron' surely? LOL),at my best friend's wedding in May.
I'd been dreading it,but now we have the dresses and are planning shoes,jewellery,hair and nails etc., I'm kind of excited.I've never been a Bridesmaid before,and neither has my daughter and she is one this time too!
But I'm desperate to get these flushes under control by then,especially as I'm having my hair in soft curls,and it'll be rat's tails if I have a couple of mega flushes on the day >:(
xx
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I've had quite a bit of accupunture, like Taz I find it very relaxing. I did have it for the severe tingling I expereinced last year. I now know this was another perimeno-meno symtom - having had tests to rule everything else out!. Accupunture didn't really help with that, so I'm wondering about flushes as they are an extension of the same thing.
BTW it might be worth asking your GP about trials. I have heard of an NHS trial (accupunture and herbs) taking place in in the London borough of Westminster. Health services in this area are eligible. Maybe a remote possibility that other health authorities are considering it.
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Meant to say that the accupunture trial taking place is to control meno symtoms using accupunture and herbs!
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Thanks libif, I just need to get ride of my middle age spread or find a goodpull everything in haha.
jillymoo, I'm trying to grow my hair it's gone from being a short crop to at the moment shoulder length. My hair is thick and wavey but very unruley. I,m sitting here with my heated curlers in, I bought a deffuser and used it last night I looked as though I'd had a terrible fright it was like candy floss.
We haven't got our dresses yet seen some lovely ones in mags but all the models are about 18yrs old and a size 0. ::)
Hope yours goes well and you have a great day.
PS Chief brides maid sounds so much nicer than matron of honour :)
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hi my name is tillyb i,m new to the site and really enjoying it. ( ???Is it wrong to be pleased that others are suffering as well as me.)I too am at my wits end with the flushes,i now sleep naked between two large towels it helps to keep me dry and i manage to sleep through the smaller flush,s anybody not tried it give it a go.they are also the one part of the menapause that are driving me mad,crying at adverts,forgetting that i spent the money i was saving for my holiday,the list goes on.I also suffer from a condition called Fibromaialga (doe,s anybody else please get in touch) and take strong painkillers,and anti inflame,tabs,so trying to avoid going down the HRT route,i go to the gym five times a week,dont drink tea,coffee alcohol,or smoke,i eat healthy but still the flush,es come.Cant tell anymore what is the fibro,and what is the menapause.SO enjoying the site very much.
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Hi Tillyb
:welcomemm:
lovely to have you with us.
yes i know what you mean about the flushes, i did have them every 20 mins day and night, and it was this that finally drove me to hrt. unfortunately ive just managed to come of it as side effects were not to good for me. flushes are returning, not as bad yet as they were but getting worse day by day, and like you am begining to feel despairing. there are other medications which can help, certain antidepressants have been known to help as well as clonidine. ive yet to try them and will do if it gets as bad as before.
sound like you are doing all the right things otherwise, i too used to go to the gym regularly, but it didnt help, and now my joints and muscle ache so much a little swimming and pilates is all i can manage. alcohol certainly makes mine worse, and ive certainly cut down but loathe to give it up completely cos sometimes it feels as my only pleasure left. :(
we do have someone here who does have fibromyalgia and im sure shell be along later to welcome you, as will many others. do join in we do have great laughs.
for me without this forum the last year would have been impossible to get through.
love poppinsxx
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It is ME with the fibromyalgia - pleased to meet you Tillyb. :welcomemm:
I admire you for going to the gym five times a week - I found that it made my symptoms so much worse. I can cope with walking a two mile walk every day - am still to get back to the five miles I was doing before fibro hit - but it is whatever you find works for you.
Do you have a gym person who is knowledgeable about fibro? I found that very difficult here which is why I might have not got on so well with the gym stuff.
It is difficult to know where fibro ends and meno finishes. I would say just be kind on yourself and listen to your body. I am now back to working nearly full time but still have days when everything seems to shut down - do you know that feeling? It's like someone throws a switch and you just cant function. I am on HRT now for the meno symptoms and do feel much better. I still get really painful trigger points and have to work at least 48 hours ahead in order not to wear myself out. It is so frustrating when you are a "do-er"
Love Taz x
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Hi Ladies :)
I've been back on my HRT now for 11days. My flushes have greatly reduced already :clapping:
I feel very emotional (crying at the drop of a hat) and quite touchy, almost pre menstral if that makes sense. I'm just putting that down to the hormones kicking in. Just wondering if any one else has found this when first going on HRT or going back on like I have.
cookiexx
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Hi Corky - I only become "premenstrual" feeling when I start the second half of the sequi one as it is the progesterone that causes such symptoms. When I was on the conti one I had these feelings all the time and it is not something I would want to try again!
I have forgotten which one you are on - I expect I knew at some point :meltdown:
Taz x
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Hi Everyone, Sorry i haven't been in touch for a while I haven't been feeling too good. The night sweats & the day flushes have been driving me mad, I haven't been getting much sleep, I am so tired I feel sick :sick02: I have been crying a lot aswell. I am like a Zombie going into work, I haven't even been to the gym for the last week, I haven't got the energy to do any exercise :gym: Last Monday I gave in and went to the Doctor, he has put me back on HRT, but it is a lower dose than what I was on before. It is Saturday today and already the hot flushes are not quite so intense. I tried 2000mg of starflower a day for some time but it didn't work. I just hope that now i am back on the HRT I will not put on any weight.
Love to you all
Tweedy :foryou:
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I think I've started with the flushes now >:( a lot of the time it's just been my face and neck that feel like they are burning but this last week / ten days it's been all over and starting at night , I was hoping that I might be one of the lucky ones that missed this bit of the memo out ::)
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Sorry to hear that Rosie - it's a bummer when you think you might have missed a symptom then you get it after all. How long have you been in meno for? My flushes were flushes for about a year and then turned into full blown sweats - flushes I could cope with but the sweats really drove me into the ground - or onto the ground in the form of a puddle many times a day :burn:
Taz x
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Hi Taz , been in memo for a good few years now from when I first started missing periods etc , they have been gradually getting further apart , I've had 1 in the last year , I had been getting the burning face for at least 2/3 years but this is completely different , I've never had as many as I've had today >:( , any idea's on how to cope , I can't have HRT my GP said because of fibroids .
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Sorry Rosie - I'm afraid that nothing worked for me apart from the HRT. I thought that there was someone on here with fibroids who is starting HRT. Have you done lots of research yourself to see if your GP is correct?
Hopefully, this will just be a "blip" and you will settle back down again.
Taz x :hug:
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I did look into it when my GP first told me , the info I did find at the time did agree with what I had been told and that was that fibroids feed of hormones . I will be due to see her again soon , if these flushes are still causing problems then I will see what she suggests . Thanks
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Oh Rosie, so sorry you are having a bad time with the sweats, i have had them for just over 7yrs, i have tried every herbal going, now trying Clonidine 4per, my daytime sweats have calmed down a lot, but night one's 8pm -8am are still on going, get around 1 every 50mins-1hr, so no depth of sleep at all...however...i have had the odd night, when i am sweat free for 2hrs + which is like winning the Lotto..! really hope you can get something to help, maybe get you Gp to look at clonidine for you..
x
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I know this connection has been mentioned before,but after a particularly booze-fuelled night last Friday,I decided to give my liver a rest this week.And after my first 'dry' seven days for ages,my flushes have almost disappeared!
I haven't had one at all in the day,and the night time ones have gone from almost constant all night to maybe 3/4 minor,short-lived ones.I've had a run of great night's sleep, so maybe it's time I bit the bullet and did the sensible thing.Been wanting to cut down for ages sooooo.... :-\
xx
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Hi Jillymoo, I dont have hot flushes (yet?), but have cut out all wine, caffeine and fizzy drinks this week - my racing brain has calmed down, and the anxiety/panic attacks are few and far between!! (shame - I shall miss the wine - will try and re-introduce the odd glass and see what happens). I think my system was overloaded with stimulants that were stimulating the hormones and the adrenalin into overdrive!!
Love Yogini xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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Ladies soooo pleased you are both feeling better after cutting out booze, i have not had a drink since NY evening, but do find i can sometimes get away, with a vodka & coke, but only chance it on special occassions..still getting day time relief, but night sweats till rage on.. :steamed:
x
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Thanks Rosebush - its amazing the difference I feel - the anxiety levels have definately eased - and believe me, thats such a relief!! I am having reflexology on Tuesday (I have a good friend who is a highly qualified therapist) and she is going to work on my kidneys and adrenals - as they obviously come under attack when all the stimulants coming into the body!! But like you, I do want to have the odd treat of a glass of wine every so often.
Yogini xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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I am in the fortunate position of not suffering hot flushes (yet) and I have wondered why some women suffer so much and others don't. I am a very small drinker, the kind of person who can make a glass of wine last all evening without even trying. From reading above threads maybe that is connected. Don't even ask me about chocolate because if that were connected to hot flushes I'd be permananently dripping :D :D
Sparkly
x
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Ohhhh chocolate, i do have the odd Sq 85% cocoa, but it has to be in the morning/lunchtime... did have some at night wks ago..OMG never again, sweats were back to every 1/2hr..ladies if you can have a glass of wine & choc's with no effect, have some for me.. :clapping:
As for some women flushing/sweating and some not...My Sister (2yrs younger) had early meno at 39, periods just stopped, she has not had any symptoms at all, that was 18yrs ago....she jokes i am having her share.. :-* My younger Sister is so hoping she doesn't follow me!!!
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I have been getting dizzy spells occasionally for the last couple of years. They only last a few seconds, and they may even happen when I am sitting down. This morning I had a particularly bad one and nearly fell over. It has left me feeling very shaky and anxious. Is this all part of the vaso-motor symptoms do you suppose? I don't really get hot flushes, although I do wake with night sweats sometimes.
Kathy :-\
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Hi Kathy, sorry to hear you are suffering. I had lots of dizzy spells when i first became perimeno. (I am 52, and 2 years into it). They could of course be linked to other things - inner or middle ear problems - and could also be related to the anxiety and stress around meno. Maybe get an appointment with Doc., and get the ears looked at, and see what Doc. says. Many of the ladies on the forum have commented on dizziness.
Yogini xxxxxxxxxxxx
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Thanks yogini, I think I probably should get this investigated. What worries me, if it should happen when I'm driving.......
Kathy xxxx
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I used to worry like that too - but it never did!! I think we have to be careful not to restrict ourselves, or to talk ourselves into something - we can do this very easily. I remember my dear old Mum used to get my dad to drive her to work when she was menopausal - she panicked and could not drive herself. I have often felt like that, but have made myself go!!
Love Yogini xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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Thanks Yogini, I feel a lot better now. I've just had a run and that always helps me think and I feel much more positive.
Kathy xx :)
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Hi Guys
I've been having flushes and night sweats for about 6 weeks now and they're happening more often and are more intense. I can cope with the days but I'm having about 5-6 every night and am totally shattered. I have confusion, memory loss, elation/doom feelings constantly and absolutely no sex drive. I will be getting results from my blood test next week - don't know whether it will prove anything but the doc wanted to do one anyway so I'm happy with that. During our chat she told me that I should try agnus castus and that from now on soy and linseeds will be my best friends - anyone had any success with these?
Also will try Starflower oil for the flushes, don't think I could cope with these for 2 years let alone 5 or 15!
I must say that after finding this site and getting info from it I feel more positive then I have for a long time cos I now know that I'm not going mad and at some time this will pass and I'll eventually feel better - there IS a reason for how a feel and its NOT me - for this I am truely thankful :'(
ps has anyone experienced any problems with taking multiple oils/herbal things - apart from a very empty purse ;D ;D
Thanks to all the lovely people on this site :thankyou: :foryou:for sharing their experiences and for making me feel 'normal'
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Hi Pebble, when I first became perimeno, I took a Vitamin B complex, plus Agnus Castus plus Omega 7 capsules - plus I had some acupuncture treatment. The Vit B did help my skin problems but everything else just upset the balance even more.
I then stopped everything and tried one thing at a time - but it was like the body was saying STOP . Now I take nothing - but have changed my diet. My worst symptoms were the anxiety rushes and the panic attacks and feelings of doom and gloom. I have given up wine, caffeine and chocolate - and the improvement is dramatic. I tried a couple of squares of chocolate this week and i could feel the anxiety starting to surge again. So no stimulants is working for me!! I dont take HRT, so have had to find my way of coping.
Love Yogini xxxxxxx
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Hi Pebble, when I first became perimeno, I took a Vitamin B complex, plus Agnus Castus plus Omega 7 capsules - plus I had some acupuncture treatment. The Vit B did help my skin problems but everything else just upset the balance even more.
I then stopped everything and tried one thing at a time - but it was like the body was saying STOP . Now I take nothing - but have changed my diet. My worst symptoms were the anxiety rushes and the panic attacks and feelings of doom and gloom. I have given up wine, caffeine and chocolate - and the improvement is dramatic. I tried a couple of squares of chocolate this week and i could feel the anxiety starting to surge again. So no stimulants is working for me!! I dont take HRT, so have had to find my way of coping.
Love Yogini xxxxxxx
Thanks Yogini xxx
I stopped taking caffeine about 3 years ago - by mistake as was only going to cut down for a while - and am now completely intolerant. I rarely drink, only on the odd accasion we go for a meal. Am a veggie and try not to indulge in 'naughty food' but find myself at the mo craving choccy.
I'm going to get some agnus castus and Starflower oil - am only taking EPO at the mo and don't really know if it does anything but I've always taken it every now and then.
Since the sweats started, my skin actually feels better ???. I suppose the worst for me is the mood swings, which I'm trying really hard to control but the lows are very low and dark but I have to keep telling myself that it's my hormones and things will get better. I'm just soooo glad I've found this site ;)
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Hi Pebbles, sorry you are feeling so bad.
I have been on HRT for about 2 years now. I tried several alternatives such as Femal & black cohash but they took about a month to kick in & after 3 months they stopped working altogether. Like you say it can be a strain on the old purse strings.
I am on a low does of HRT & they have stopped my hot flushes :) :). I still get confused about every day things & at work they must think I am losing the plot sometimes. I use to worry about turning in to my mum who ended up with altzheimers but now I try & just take each day as it comes.
I always have some Bach rescue remedy pastilles in my bag & when I get nrevous or panicky about things I suck one & it just takes the edge off of it.
Like you say you aren't going mad, & now you understand what is happening to your body you will be relieved a bit, well I know I did when I realised what was going on.
Glad to have you with us & I hope you keep posting. If you need to ask anything then let us know.
Love Cazikins xx
:cat48: :cat48:
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Thanks so much Cazikins :thankyou:
Have had a couple of really low days but am trying really hard to be positive. :)
Have started to take flaxseed capsules, vit B complex, Zinc and still taking my EPO so will see what happens. Will be getting some agnus castus this week as well, but thanks for making me feel so welcome xx
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Before I went on my hols I had been suffering from Night sweats keeping me awake and disturbing wat little sleep i had, also had sweats in the day, cud be any thing up to 20 a day.
But i bought some Menopace and some starflower tabs, (i'd tried the cohash for a month) and took them away with me, did not have one flush or kept awake at night while i was away.
Had a little bit of hot spot saturday night when we were out, not as bad as previously tho.
So when i go back to the doc I'm gonna ask for a month in Turkey.
Can't see it happening tho.
Hope everyone else has found there own remedies and are coping ok.
There's nothing worse than losing sleep when ya have to try to work the next day, I was told to have a nap in the afternoon but think my manager may have something to say as well as my customers. :)
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Hi all, hope you're all enjoying the Spring sunshine!
I'm so glad I found this forum as I've been searching the web for support and advice re: hysterectomy and menopause for a couple of days now! My name is Cessj, and in 2003, aged 43, I had a total hysterectomy as I had the most humoungous fibroids. After the op., the docs showed me the largest which was the size of a new born baby!
Anyway, about a year ago, aged 47/48, I started getting meno symptoms, especially hot flushes and the odd night sweats. I went to my GP but as I have a history of high blood pressure and recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes, and my family has history of stroke, my GP would not put me on HRT. The hot sweats/flushes went away, but in the last month have returned, and boy! with a vengeance. I get them by day and night, and my nights are broken by hourly sweats that leave me drenched and freezing- I'm sure you all know what I am going through. So I wake up in the morning with a fuzzy brain, tired, sometimes dizzy, and find it really hard to get up for work....some days, if I could stay in bed all day, I'd happily do so. I'm reasonably functioning by mid-late afternoon.
I would really like some advice on treatment options as I am not a good candidate for HRT...but I've been told that some of the natural remedies can be pretty bad.
The other thing is sore breasts, especially my nipples. I don't have periods any longer as a result of the hysterectomy, but still get the physical and emotional problems - sore breasts, mood swings. It seems so unfair in a way that although I am no longer fertile, that I have to be reminded of this every month...and for some reason, the nipple/breast soreness has been worse since the most recent onset of night sweats/hot flushes...I also ocassionally have the most awful panicky sensations and feelings of dizziness but they have subsided for now...does anyone have any advice to offer...I am only 48 [soon to be 49] but I'm finding the meno very hard...I've always been used to looking 10-20 years younger, but suddenly I feel like 79 [apologies to any 79 year olds on the forum]. my skin looks awful, the weight is piling on, have no energy, sex drive disappeared, tired, and worse of all, can't even envisage a future...sorry to offload, but I don't know if anyone else but you all will understand
Cessj ;)
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Hi Cessj
:welcomemm:
Nice to have you with us, you are really having a rough time of it arent you? I think you will find there are quite a lot of us can sympathise, having experienced some or all of your symptoms at some time or other.
Im 52 and 2yrs into the 'natural' perimenopause. i tried HRT but it didnt suit me and didnt fully relieve my symptoms either.
Ive been trying starflower oil at the moment and whether it that or not but my daytime flushes are much less every 2 hrs in the main instead of every 20mins. night times are getting slightly easier too. Most seem to find that it takes a while for any of the herbal things to kick in and they are only effective for a while.
do have a good browse around theres loads of advise and a wealth of experience ::)
Do join in we are a friendly bunch :)
love poppinsxx
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Hi everyone,
I'm new to this site, glad I found it, it's been really helpful looking at your stories about the meno.
I've just come to the conclusion that I must be menopausal, I'm getting suddenly REALLY hot, I can't sleep because I'm too hot, and no periods since Jan.
Do you have to see a doc to get it confirmed? It's a bit earlier than I expected, I'm 47, and my mum didn't get hers till later. I had my second child 5 years ago and thought that the later you had them the later it started or are all these things just myths?
I bought some red clover today, does anyone know if it works for flushes?
Sorry about all the questions - you just seem the right people to ask!!!!
Thanks, Jules x :o
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Hi Jules - welcome to the forum :welcomemm:
Never fear - now you have found us lot things will seem so much better - not easier always - but there is always someone to share things with, someone to give you a hug when needed, some advice or, sometimes, the cyber kick up the bum we all seem to need from time to time ;D
It does sound as if you are beginning meno symptoms. Some ladies like to check with their GP as to what is happening though the hormone tests are notoriously unreliable. You may find that your hot feelings disappear again - this used to happen to me when I was building up for a period - then they would start up again when the period finished. I went 10 months (twice) between periods and had to start counting again. You have to have gone a year without a period if you are over 50 and two years if you are under 50 before you are considered post meno and can discontinue contraception.
I am sorry but I appear to be waffling tonight - been a long day maybe or maybe I am just having a meno-moment or three! Anyway, have a good look around the site - the green menu on the left has a lot of info - read our posts and join in as and when you feel you want to.
If you don't get many replies on here you might like to just say "hi" on the New Members Thread - you may get missed lurking in this bit!!
Taz x :)
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Hi Jules
I found you!!
Welcome as well. :welcomemm:
Does sound very like the meno, but well worth a trip to Docs just to rule out anything else sometimes other illnesses can have similar symptoms so best to get it confirmed,
Ive just recently read a good book about the meno and Red Clover was one of the herbal remedies recommended but they are helped by increasing your soya intake as well to get a complete phyto-oestrogen.
Do join in and keep us updated on how you are coping.
Ive had hot flushes now for ages, when they started last year i was having 1 every 20 mins, then have a spell on Hrt which didnt work out for me, in the meantime id found out i was intolerant to dairy ( amongst other things) and changed to soya products. By the time i was fully weaned of hrt i found my flushes were only every 2 hours, but still unbearable.... now im in the process of seriously upping my soya intake in the hope of reducing them further and so far its looking hopeful.
love poppinsxx
:bunny:
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Thanks so much for replying, it's nice to feel not alone. None of my friends have had this yet, so I haven't got anyone to talk to about it! I'll put a message on the new members bit, thanks for the tip. Jules x
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Oooh Poppins, keep us (me) posted on how you get on with the soya intake, in particular, how much soya you take per day to get any results. I was on Novogen Red Clover for a couple of years with no effect, together with porridge made with soya milk and soya yoghurts but can't say any of it stopped or effectively reduced the flushes. I do wonder tho, whether, after all that, I STILL wasn't eating enough soya. Be interesting to see how you get on
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Hi Dando
At the moment i have soya with my cereal, 3 yogurts a day plus soya icecream and ive got soya cheese but dont have that every day its pretty disgusting!
Should take a month to notice a difference. Still dont think this will be enough think i may have to get a high soya shake called Revial? from the states unless i can get a uk supplier. The book i read suggested that the red clover supplement is not a full phyto oestrogen so not much use on its own.
will keep you up dated
poppinsxx
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This site is quite informative Poppins http://www.ion.ac.uk/healthnotes.php?org=ion&ContentID=2910007 not sure if it will be removed or not though so have a look and save it quick!
Taz x :)
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DONE THANKS ;D
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Thanks for that info Annie. I know that a few ladies on here have tried Starflower oil (in fact we did have a member called Starflower - wonder what happened to her?) and Welcome to the Forum by the way!
How many types of HRT did you try? I only ask as there are many types out there and it can take a while to hit on the right one. Each of them have to be tried for at least three months to see if they suit. Early effects such as bloating and feeling spaced out can put you off but by three months they have usually disappeared. Also, if you had digestive side effects and were on pills then patches are probably the way forward.
Have a good look around the site - lots of info in the green menu on the left of the screen - and you will find us to be a friendly lot. Looking forward to hearing more from you.
Taz x
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Hello,I'm a newby on here.I was dx with Breast Cancer in 2003 and the Tamoxifen I took for 4 years caused awful gynae problems,so 18 months ago I had a Hysterectomy,and wham,over night I was thrust into the Menopause.
Because of mt Breast Cancer dx,I am uinable to have HRT,so I am really struggling with hot flushes and night sweats, both of which appear to be much worse in this lovely Summer weather.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Bye for now :-*
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Hi Sophiesmum.
:welcomemm:
nice to have you with us. I too am suffering night sweats and hot flushes, couldnt take HRT because of the side effects, and this hot weather doesnt make it easier does it, just less embarrassing as everyone else is dripping as well! 8)
It may be a good idea to introduce yourselve on the newbie thread as well you may get missed here, should then be someone else along to welcome you there.
We are a great bunch of ladies very supportive, usually a mine of information, and a few laughs along the way as well, look forward to hearing from you more
love poppinsxx
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The flushes i am experiencing in the day arnt too bad, but the night sweats are killing me i seem to sleep for a couple of hours then wake absolutely drenched, to the degree the whole bed has to be stripped. I am currently taking Nuvelle Continuous. I had a hysterectomy in January, so have been thrust head long in to the menopause. >:( I have been on the hrt since June so am hoping to feel some benefit soon, or it won't be worth it as i am only allowed it for a year, due to breast cancer links.
Love SKP
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:( hi, can anyone tell me if they started with migrains when the menopause started?all light headed,ears ringing and really sore, vision going funny and finally feeling so sick. so fed up with it and does anyone get burning near enough all over your body not just a quick flush. i have tried hrt it seemed to ease it but it seems to be coming back you do feel like your going mad and i feel so sorry for my fella he must be fed up listing to me moaning god love him.
also did all your joints start aching feet, knees, hips and back.
thanks for listing i hope someone can help :)
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Hi coops, welcome to the forum, :tulipsib2:
Since ive been peri meno i do have more severe headaches, sometimes lasting a couple of days.
I can sympathize with you about the vision going funny, that affects me a lot, and all the other symptoms you mentioned, ive had at one time or another, as im sure most of us have on here.
Have a look round the site, you will find that your not alone, we are a very friendly bunch on here, and you will get lots of support. Tilly. x :)
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Hi coops welcome from me too.
I havent been unlucky enough (so far fingers crossed) to suffer from migraines during meno but the aching feet and everything else is common in meno. I had this before going on HRT and didn't even realise it was a meno symptom till it went within two weeks of starting HRT.
Have a good look around the site.We are supportive and friendly and you can ask whatever question you want, no matter how daft it seems, and I guarantee that one of us will have had it or know of someone who has.
Taz x
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Hi coops
:welcomemm:
I suffered from headaches & migraines for a couple of years on & off, sometimes all I could do to shift them was lie down in the dark.
I did suffer from a lot of headaches & migraines when I was younger, but funnily enough they stopped after I had my daughter, so I assume it was the hormone changes.
I still ache when I first get up in the mornings but once I move about it eases off quickly.
I get quite stiff if I am sat down for a while as well.
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:) :)
After 18 months of hot flushes which were becoming unbearable,I tried HRT this turned me into a depressed gibbering wreck - I tried 2 different sorts and never want to feel like that again, In fact I was prescribed anti-depressants to get me back to 'normal' (whatever that is in the menopause!!!) That sorted the misery, but still several hot flushes a day and about 5 or 6 night sweats which woke me up every night I was beginning to feel at my wits end!!! I must admit I would try anything which will
a) SHIFT WRINKLES
OR
b) STOP MY MENO SYMPTOMS
It would not matter how ridiculous it is, I am there, headstands in the local park/ice cold showers/ tap dancing naked in the high street - I'd try it just to feel better!!
HOWEVER!!! a friend of mine recommended high strength (1000mg) starflower oil capsules ;D ;D ;D IT HAS WORKED!!! I AM SO HAPPY I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO!!! Down to about 1 flush a day and that is only if I am flustered!! Now sleeping almost through the night!!
I know each of us are different, and it may not work for everyone, but after about 10 days I really noticed the difference and a month later all is still well!
l would also like to say that reading this forum has helped me enormously, and thank you to all you lovely ladies who have made me realise I am not alone... It has been a real turning point. Thanks once again xx
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Hi coops,
so pleased that you have found something that works for you :)
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I remember Starflower :)
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I'm not coping. I'm going to take up the suggestion and buy Starflower on way home, and have booked an appointment with the doctor next week.
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Hi juju,
I have been put on Kliovance 3 weeks ago! im off work with stress due to a minimum of 7 night sweats, I cannot sleep and I have been going through the menopause for 3 years. I am not feeling any better just yet and the sweats are still extreme these are made worse as I have asthma and struggle for breath. Could you tell me how long yoy was on kliovance before the sweats stopped I would greatly appreciate it.
caramour
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Hi Caramour - I am not on Kliovance but just wanted to welcome you to the forum.
Things will be much better now that you have found us and someone will be along soon I am sure to help more with your question. Have a good look around the site and check out the green menu on the left of the screen which has info.
Post whatever you want - there is always someone who understands. You may like to put a post under "new members" so that you are not "missed".
Taz x :)
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Hi i am new to this forum and i have just started with menopause the night sweats are driving me mad. On a recent trip to spain i discovered a product that has made my life bearable at least the hot flashes can now be controlled i feel i need to share this new found product with my fellow sufferers its a bedfan this fan blows cool fresh air over my body while i try and get some sleep there is a nifty little dimmer switch so i can turn up the air when the flash is at its worst. i did some research on my return and found that the product is listed on NAMS and very popular in the states so i just had to have one. its has been a revalation for my husband too who now does not need to freeze.
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Hello Ladies
I'm new to this forum. I've been having menopausal symptoms for about 4 months now and they are driving me crazy what with the night sweats, hot flushes, rubbish memory, and suddenly looking older almost overnight. There is one thing that's happening that is a bit wierd and I wanted to ask if anyone else had experienced it. Quite frequently, especially when I'm lying in bed, right before I get a hot flush I get a strange sensation in my lower legs, mainly back of my calf. It doesn't hurt exactly but is really unpleasant and I can only describe it as a kind of intense creeping feeling deep inside my leg. It's not a skin sensation, it feels deeper than that. It happens seconds before the flush and can last for several minutes afterwards. Haas anyone else experienced this?
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Hi ziggy,
:welcomemm:
i don't get that sensation, but I do get a 'burning' sensation in the side of my left calf, will have to try & monitor it & see if it happens before a flush, if I remember ;D
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Hi Ziggy - welcome to the forum.
If you type crawling skin into the search box at the top right of the page it will bring up all the posts on this very subject. I am not sure if that's what you mean. I have had it - it feels like something is crawling around under the skin on my arm - not itching but moving around - it is part and parcel of meno. I have not had this since starting HRT two years ago.
Taz x
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iv'e found that when i'm at work i drink more coffee than i do at home. for the past month when i have my 3rd or 4th cup at about 3.30pm afterwards i get very hot and go red and feel uncomfortable. i feel like sweat is dripping off my back and i have to get out of the office and go and try to cool down in the toilets. i am thinking of cutting out coffee as it seems to start this off. do you think this will help?
someone at work told me that cutting out caffeine helped them.
thanks
karen
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Hi Karen - cutting down on caffeine is meant to improve sweats. Yogini on this site has changed her diet drastically and has benefited from doing so. I am sure she will be along to give her advice. There is this advice from this site http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/diet.php
Taz x
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Hi I'm new to this site and would like some advice please..I've read loads of your complaints and am relieved to know I'm not the only one going insane. I too am feeling so low confused forgetful distant and very weird. I had an Hysterectomy last year in Oct because I was having very painful periods I also had Fibroids.I decided to keep my ovaries in. Quite recently I am having the sweats & flushes & terrible pain in my boobs which I have suffered we for years but is getting worst. I asked my doctor for a blood test to see if I was going through the menopause which has come back fine. I'm more distressed now not knowing why I am feeling like I do and was hoping the test would come back positive and I could take the magic pills and feel fine again. A friend has told me that sometimes this blood test has to be regulary done as it doesnt always show.
any suggestions please xx
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Hi debbiedougal, welcome to the forum. You will find lots of strength and support here. Blood tests often do come back "fine", but it does not mean that we are not going through meno, or perimeno. Hormone levels fluctuate so much, making any testing quite difficult.
Karen - as Taz said I have changed my diet - cutting out all stimulants basically - wine, caffeine, sugar, chocolate, fizzy drinks, cheese and it has made such a difference. I was not getting hot flushes, but had episodes of getting really hot, burning cheeks. I was also suffering from panic and anxiety attacks and these have improved drastically.
Yogini xxxxxxxx
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Hi Debbiedougal - welcome from me too.
Tests are notoriously unreliable for meno but when your GP said "fine" do you know what was meant by that? I only ask as my GP said fine and when I questioned her she said "fine for a 50 year old woman". My FSH levels (follicle stimulating hormone) were 178 and fertile women should show a level between 8 and 25ish I think. So, I was fine, menopausal but "fine".
Have a good browse around the site - you will find loads of support and help on here.
Taz x
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Hi I'm new to this site, but have already found it to informative and helpful.
I would like any advice on how to deal with night sweats and hot flushes, naturally without HRT etc. Although I've had the occasional night sweats for a while, they caused only the minimum of bother but this last week or so have seen them come with avengence, disturbing my sleep three or four times during the night. I can cope with day flushes, it just the night ones that are a nuisance. I suffer with cold and have always had to wrap up well in bed, pyjamas, warm duvet so being too hot at night is not something I'm used too!
Filly
:)
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Hi Filly,
:welcomemm:
it's very helpful on here there's usually someone around to help or listen.
If you look at some of the posts you may find the info you need, also the green tabs on the left are very useful :)
:welcomemm:
to debbiedougal as well :)
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Hi Filly - welcome to the forum from me too.
Unfortunately I could find nothing that helped with the sweats and once they started happening all through the day as well as the night I had to go onto HRT (and luckily I found one that suited me very quickly).
You will find lots of support on here - nice to hear from you.
Taz
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I have only just joined and posted on the other board about hot flushes. Have just started getting them at aged 58 and also just been diagnosed with osteo-arthritis of hip. Basically Doctor firstly said I was too old for menopause, and then said it was too late to start hrt and suggested I get a herbal remedy!
Anyway I got some soya isoflavanes with black cohosh. I started taking them a few days ago and the hot flushes have definately got a lot less than they were- so may or may not be the tablets. I am also taking soy milk with my cereal in the mornings. I was already taking cod liver oil with evening primrose for my bones.
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Swiss i went on Hrt 10wks before my 60th B.day, had hot flushes for over a yr and sweats 24/7 for nearly 9yrs, Hrt has stopped day sweats, but now i get really hot night flushes, i also have O/A which started 10yrs ago, meno has made it worse..well my aches & pains are worse.. I tried every herbal remedy that was available but like Taz nothing worked for me...BUT hope you do have success with whatever you try.. :-*
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As said above I started taking the soya and black cohosh and noticed a bit of an improvement. However I made an amazing discovery yesterday - I treated myself to a packet of liquorice allsorts which I pigged out on all day. I suddenly realised whilst watching tv last night I hadn't had a hot flush at all since earlier in the day- I usually have to sit there with a mini-fan nearby. Also had a much better night. Have to wait and see if it all comes back today.
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What a great discovery ;D
Licquorice Allsorts the cure for sweats ;D ;D
I've been 36 hours (and counting) without a flush - first night for months without waking.
I put it down to either the Prozac kicking in, or a colder night - AT LAST. Bring on the cold weather ;)
Keep taking the sweets and report back!
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I love liquorice allsorts, so let us know how it goes.
What a good excuse to eat them ;D
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Update on the liquorice. Started getting flushes again last night, although not quite so bad. Have found that you can get liquorice teabags so going to try them. Can't eat the sweets all day/everyday as I understand you can overdose on liquorice - also it has a laxative effect!
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There is some information on here http://www.regenerativenutrition.com/content.asp?id=454 One caution is that you have to be careful in using liquorice supplements if you have high blood pressure.
Hope it keeps working for you Swissmiss though there doesn't seem to be any information on using it for hot flushes. Maybe you are the first to discover its ability to help meno women!!
Taz x
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googled for information after eating the liquorice and found this on a herbal remedy website. Have also found other links which suggest it is useful in arthritis as well, which I also have.
"The use of liquorice is one of the most effective remedies for menopausal disorders. Liquorice contains the natural female hormone, estrogen, and can, to some degree, compensate for the diminished hormone. One teaspoon of the powder should be taken daily."
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Thats great - I knew it was used for auto immune disorders so the arthritis link is not surprising and if it helps meno stuff too thats even better. Just wish I liked the taste!
Taz x
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This is such good news!
Went out to buy liquorice today only to discover >:( that most liquorice products are prepared with wheat flour and being gluten free ::) ...
However have bought the teabags and found some pure liquorice in the health shop.
So let's see what happens...
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Good luck Ladystardust :)
I didn't know you could get liquorice teabags! will have to look out for them when I go shopping :)
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Ooh I love liquorice. Waitrose do some nice liquorice - supposed to be organic etc. Must look out for it. Trouble is, I could eat the whole lot in one go .......and as everyone knows, that could have a disastrous effect!
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Sorry to spoil the party but there's a world of difference between
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liquorice
and
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liquorice_(confectionery)
... I'd look into it more closely before going all Bertie Bassett :-\
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Well something's clearly working!
It's either the prozac
or the starflower oil tablets
or the licquorice - (pure not bassett's ;))
or any combination of the above
But I haven't had a night flush for ages and counting.....
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I found some pure liquorice teabags on Saturday, literally liquorice only, but it's so sweet I don't think I can cope with them! daughter suggested putting some lemon juice in the tea to see if that counteracts the sweetness ;D
i also bought liquorice wheel from Julian graves 9they had the highest liquorice content & not much of anything else, ate 2 yesterday & have realised that although I had hot flushes in the night as usual, I only had 1 this morning haven't had anymore during the day :)
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In May of this year I was told that I was indeed going through the menopause. It was a lovely 43rd Birthday present! :-X
The hot flushes were terrible, 5 or 6 in an hour, nights were also terrible. I was given various options by my GP, none of which appealed, HRT is not option as I have endometriosis, I was recommended by a friend of mine to seek advice from a clinical reflexologist - which has been such a positive for me. I take something called Macca, which have helped, I also take 2 starflower capsules, what has controlled the flushes more than anything is something galled lugol's iodine, I take 12 drops in a morning in a glass of fruit juice, the result has been great, I no longer have flushes.
Various friends have been recommended the same thing, and they to are happy with the results!
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Hi Hunterschild - sorry to hear about your rubbish 43 birthday present!! Glad that you have found something that has stopped the hot flushes. Mine are still going although presently they are not as bad as they have been. I found at one time that drinking bottled water was good then all of a sudden that no longer worked and I changed back to tap water (it was getting expensive too), this made them come back stronger and I convinced myself that it was because of the all hormones that they can't get out of the water system (still not sure about that one). Anyway, I cut down on my water intake which seemed to help, but for the last week have had trouble with constipation which has led to piles (not nice at all) :'( so from today I am back on the water kick and I suppose the flushes will come back stronger again. Is it not possible to take too much Iodine which will lead to problems with your Thyroid? Otherwise, I may try your remedy. ???
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Vitamin C has worked so far for me - early days- apparently it helps with elasticity of blood vessels - between 1-3 grams a day.
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Hi,
im new to forum so could do with some good advise. Ive been on hrt for about 15years, ive been advised by my doctor to come off it. I still have hot flushes even when im on hrt but understand they get worse. I use the gel. i reduced it first but now ran out, its been a week now and so far ok, ive noticed im very light headed to the point i feel like im about to faint, is this normal after stopping hrt? I had everything taken away and i was young im 44 now. im worried about brittle bones, the doctor says he can help me with this. Ive noticed some people say they feel better off it and others say they feel worse, really confused some sound advise would be brill.
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Hi clarky
Welcome to the forum!
Can't help you much, I'm afraid, as I've only just started HRT but suggest you post on the "new members" bit as that's where most people look first.
Bixby x ;)
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Hi Bixby,
Thanks will go to new members, didnt notice it.
Clarky
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Hi Clarky - welcome to the forum :)
Did your doc say why you had to come off HRT? A friend who had everything taken at 30 is still on it at 50 and her doc is tailing it off over the next year as guidelines say she has to see at 51 how she can cope without it. It seems as if you do need the oestrogen up till the normal meno age of 51 to keep heart and bones healthy. Her doc says that if things are bad for her then she will be allowed to continue until she is around 60.
Have a good look around the site, especially the green menu on the left of the screen, and our posts hold lots of info too. It can be daunting when there are so many but its worth trawling through them or putting keywords in the search box.
Taz x
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THE WAY THAT I FINDFUL WITH HOT FLUSHES IS TO WEAR LIGHT LAYERED CLOTHES DURING THE DAY ,SO WHEN YOU HAVE A FLUSH YOU CAN JUST TAKE A FEW LAYERS OFF UNTIL,WHEN THE FLUSH HAS FINISHED,YOU CAN JUST POP THE LAYERS BACK ON AGAIN,IT WORKS. ;)
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hi everyone, this is my first time here, i'm 43 and going through the meno, was confirmed by the doc a few weeks ago, i am getting lots of symptoms, hot flushes, headaches, emotional and seriously painful joints, have been prescribed hrt to help with symptoms, i am struggling with the feeling the painful joints are causeing me, i am a middle distance runner and upto a few months ago i was like a youngster running around and having lots of energy but now i really do struggle with the aches in the morning, i have been taking glucosamine for years because of my running,
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Wonder if you can take Evening Primrose Oil with Starflower or just take one of them, i have been reading on this thread many of you ladies have rated The Starflower as really worth a try.
:burn:.
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I have just started on Serenity Progesterone cream. I hope I'm not imagining it but the hot flushes are fewer and lighter and I'm sleeping a bit better. However, I've broken out in a few spots on my face. Has anyone else experienced this and do you think there's a connection? ???
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You're sitting in full sun - guess you don't live in England then????? ;D
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Thanks Corrina, I'll give that a try! ;D
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Hi Terri,
keep us posted how you go.
@ Rivadan: I am in the UK and I was sitting in a south facing bay window. There was sun all Sunday morning here in Kent.
Funny, I thought, people would be a bit more enthusiastic about my post. After all, these hot flushes are so awful and there are not many solutions to it. Mmmh....maybe, most people are not so unhappy after all.
Best,
Corinna
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I think it might be that many here have tried SO many "miracle natural cures" which have either not worked or "worn off" after a short while that they are a little wary about getting too excited in case it's yet another disappointment. Hot flushes aren't a probelm for me but many here suffer dreadfully, I know. It's clear from all the posts on here that nothing seems to work for everyone but I'm sure that others will try your idea. Hope it keeps working for you.
Bixby
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Hi Bixby,
thanks for giving some explanation.
I've been reading around this website for some time and I found the overall mood rather despairing. It really depressed me and I stopped coming here. With menopause it is so important to keep a positive outlook because otherwise it drives you mad. So I searched elswehere on the net.
After I had so much success myself I wanted to inject something positive here but maybe that is not what people want to hear??? :-\ I am confused but I wish everybody luck.
Corinna
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Corrina, I've put the apple cider vinegar on my shopping list and will get some and try it. I know my Mum used to use it for lots of things. Anything is worth a go. Thanks for the advice. I'm still using the Serenity cream, I think it's helping as the hot flushes are not quite as intense. :-\
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Sorry you find the forum depressing Corinna but it is just that so many of us have tried so many things, the apple cider vinegar among them I believe, and in the end the sweats return.
Sweats and flushes are only a tiny part of how meno can make you feel - as I am sure you know - and if it seems despairing it could be because a lot of ladies on here have been feeling absolutely awful for a lot of years. You don't say what your other meno symptoms are. Perhaps you could introduce yourself a little more?
Taz x :)
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Hi Taz,
My last period was in August but I have been having hot flushes and irregular periods for years. I really hope 'this is it'. I am 'only 49.
Since summer my health has been rather bad. I don't know if that is a co-incidence or due to the 'thinning of membranes' that happens in menopause. I have a bit of joint pain, cystitis pain and stomach pain rather badly. Also, lots of cold and bronchitis. Since Christmas I am better. In September I had a bad attack of flu (maybe swine flu) and it always takes a while until your immunity is better, so it could have been due to that.
My mood is fine and I have a positive attitude to menopause. I notice that it makes me more 'male': meaning more driven and action orientated. If something does not go my way I am less anxious and sad - now I get more angry. I quite like that. Good riddance of the old whinyness!
My husband on the other hand has become more female: more anxious and vulnerable. So, in effect, we have become more the same. There is less eroticism in our relationship but soooo much more friendship. I really like all that.
The only bother were these darn hot flushes. Through eating soy, linseed and taking isoflavones and red clover I have got them down to a bearable amount. But I want to get completely rid of them.
With apple cider vinegar I feel LOTS better. I have a little bit of heat here and there but I do not have to take off my jumper. That's good enough for me. Sleep is fine, too.
So, that's me.
Corinna
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Hi Ladies,
I have read the posts and was wondering if everyones flushes are more or less the same. I don't seem to have them that bad at the moment, not even sure if I'm getting them properley. My friend goes red int face and neck with hers, so I know when she's having one but other than feeling a little warm thats it. However I do get what I describe as hot pins and needles down my back and then I get anxious and start to panic so think its anxiety. If anyone gets the same and could let me know, that would be great. I'm finding the posts on this site really comforting and helpful as I don't know anybody going through the same as me,most friends think I'm nuts! Hope its ok to keep moaning and asking questions?
Thanks again,
Kim x
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I can feel one starting and within seconds I am drenched, sometimes it's dripping off my face. So embarrassing especially if I can't escape to the outdoors quickly.
People look at me in amazement and say "Oh, you look hot"... :bang: :bang: :angryfire:
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Hi,
when my hot flushes were bad I felt as if I was sitting with my back to a very big fire - it was glowing hot and extremely uncomfortable. I do not sweat, though. Never have - even in the sauna.
One thing that was bad for me that after a flush I got the shivers. I felt like a cold wind was blowing in my house and chilling me to the bone. But if I put on an extra jumper I would immediately get too hot. So the problem was that I was never comfortable - either too hot or too cold with very little time in between.
The best I could get too is keeping myself a little too cold, slightly shivering. My hands would then get very cold and sometimes I have to wear gloves in the house. Isn't that all crazy?
Do I want to live like this for years to come? NOOOOOOOOO!!!!
@Terri: did you try the apple cider vinegar yet? I am still symptom free.
I feel it is definitely worthwhile giving this a try even if it should wear off - at least we have some relief.
Best,
Corinna
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Cori with ACV how much water do you use & what sweetner, i will try anything once, i am taking Hrt at present for sweats/flushes, getting daytime relief, but not nightime..I see you live in Kent, my G/children live in Sevenoaks, such a lovely place..
BTW anyone else trying ACV for flushes??
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Hi Corrina
Will be getting some in the next day or so...for certain!! ;)
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I havent tried the ACV but I do know of an old lady who used to swear by it and still had it first thing in the morning. She is 84.
Personally what seems to be working for me is cutting out coffee and alcohol. OK I'm no saint, I miss my weekend drink but have to decided which is worse :)
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Rosebush
the dosis is 2 tbl in a large glass of water 2 to 3 times a day. Sweeten the way you like (or drink pure if you can stand it) it but obviously, plain sugar is the least ideal. I use agave.
Still cool,
Corinna
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Hi Hewitt - I had the symptoms you describe for around a year before they changed to more full-on flushes and then sweats.
Corinna - It would be nice if "this was it" but I have to say that it is not very long since your last period in the scheme of things - I went 10 months between mine twice - and the main thing that used to happen when a period was building up after a few months without any was that the flushes would stop. I hope that the ACV is the thing that has stopped your flushes but it could be that a period is on the way. It is normally only when periods finally stop that the symptoms properly begin - two years after your last period the symptoms should peak - though it varies so much from person to person I am not sure where they came up with that timescale!
Sorry that you have been feeling a bit under the weather lately - your positive outlook will go a long way though in helping you manage your meno symptoms as they occur!
Taz x
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Hi Taz,
yes, I know that feeling when a new period is on its way and the hot flushes completely disappear. Luckily, that is not the case with me at the moment. The hot flushes have disappeared 90% or something. If I get upset I still get a bit of heat creeping up my back.
About the fact that symptoms should peak after 2 years: Please do not tell yourself that - there is no rule how symptoms develop - every woman is different and to think negatively like this is not likely to make you feel better. Many experts say that that symptoms should have subsided 12 months after your last period. Others say that only a very small minority suffer longer than a few months. CHOSE to think positive - that is what I try to do.
I will continue to try every idea that comes my way to get better: I have still lined up: molasses, sauna, alkalising the body, detoxing, alfalfa, gomasio and I have not even touched any herbs. I am sure I will continue to get better as I have in the last months.
The good thing about trying all these natural remedies to get rid of your hot flushes is that they are all good for your general health and are equally effective to ward of cancer and heart disease. For that reason I do not mind to spend the time and effort of reasearch and try them.
I am certainly not one who does not try things out of fear to be disappointed. Obviously, not everything works or works only for a short time. But then you try the next thing....and the next....and the next. And eventually you hit the problem on the head. That is what I do with all my various health problems and now with the internet we have so many ressources that I am usually successful.
All the best,
Corinna
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Agree about the positive attitude - I'm choosing to tell myself that I'm one of those who has a rough peri but feels great once really in meno! :)
Not sure about herbs and "natural" remedies always being good for health - they too can have side effects. I chose not to try black cososh(sp?!) as it can be bad for the liver and some have found it impacts badly on IBS (which I have) I'm on HRT which is proving to be great for me - we're all different and should feel free to use what works for us. I have been to a herbalist in the past and found it useful for IBS but also very expensive. I feel uneasy about using herbs without expert guidance, though - they can be just as strong (and toxic) as convential medicine.
Bixby
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I agree Bixby. Research anything before you take. I was very interested in Black Cohosh until I read that it can cause low BP. (Mine is v low now) People with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as cancer of the breast, ovaries or uterus, endometriosis or uterine fibroids, should avoid black cohosh until more is known about how it works and whether it has a hormonal effect.
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I thought mine were over 10/12 years ago with taking the mini pill and Ovestin
Since Ive stopped the Ovestin last November they seem to have come back
They arent as I remember them really bad these are short bursts of heat all over then gone maybe 2 or 3 a day
Is this what happens to all women when they delay the inevitable?
Suzi Q
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Hope not Suzi.. :'(
Cori i have bought some ACV got the organic stuff from health shop & some sweetners, had i glass at 5pm, used fairly hot water, and it tasted a bit like lemon juice, will have another at 9pm , then start with 3 tomorrow, will post if i get any relief from night sweats.. :)
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Sorry Corrina - I don't mean to be negative it's just knowing of a lot of ladies who have had a bad time I guess! I have no idea where I am in the great menoscheme of things as I am on HRT but I fought tooth and nail not to go on it. In the end the hot sweats got the better of me and I was so grateful to find relief and to be able to continue working.
I realise that I have been posting on here for a lot of years now - I think that it's four - and in all of that time we have discussed so many different things to help with our symptoms and unfortunately I can't think of any that have actually worked well against the hot sweats. I think that your ACV cure may be the first - positive thinking ;D ;D
As for all alternative remedies being good for the body - I agree with Bixby on that one. Herbal remedies have to be used with caution - but each to their own.
I don't mean to come across as negative but, in the past, probably around three years ago, I went through different times when the meno symptoms stopped altogether and I wasn't taking anything at all. If I had been taking one of the non-hrt routes or even the hrt route I would have thought I had found the cure whereas, in fact, it was just one of the ups and downs of meno. It will be great for you if you have really had your last period - will keep my fingers crossed.
Taz :)
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Hi Rosebush and Corrina. I've just bought some ACV too. I tried it just in water and it was HORRIBLE!!! Will try again tomorrow, maybe with some honey. Will also report back on results. Hoping it might help with the cystitis too ?? ;)
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To be fair and honest ive given up on all things
Taken HRT and pill for years still didnt stop me getting Atrophy
I was using it at the time I dont know if anything will really work long term if at alkl for some people
Some I think get help some dont genetics plays a part too
Ive read and re read on here and have comE to the conclusion for the majority of women HRT is not a happy thing note I said happy
It seems to help but the things that go with it seem ALMOST as bad as the symptoms
I have the hotties back and the dry vagina after stop taking Ovestin
So whats the solution lying on my back at 80 (please god im still here) and shoving it in cant see it CAN YOU?
Maybe after all the olden days werent as bad as we thought no sex (NOOOOO) ergo no pain
Antidepressants ergo no sadness depression no HRT no weight gain I remember middle aged and over ladies were a hell of a lot slimmer
If this sounds a downer is cos I dont understand yesterday I thought Id die wanting to go to the loo every 10mins and aching
Today up for 3hrs before I had a tinkle its now 1.30pm only been once this time yesterday at least 8 times and still want to go
Bobbles said to not go to the new GP but make an appt with the old one whos been my GP since 1985
Hes been with me through death injury my nervy breakdown my sons illness and my Menopause hes right
This man knows me and it should be him that sees me and hes a good man he wont send me for anything thats not neede
Im lonely today Bobbles is away and I miss my Mum see 15 years no period and still meno symptoms I think truley this is it for life
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Hi Rosebush, how are you getting on with the ACV?
I put mine in orange juice now, not quite as horrible.....flushes seem lighter and less frequent...but I'm also in a weeks break of Serenity progesterone cream.......not sure what is working or what isn't but won't risk stopping anything!!!!!! ;D
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Hi Terri :) i am still taking ACV have 2tbs in small glass of warm water, with 1 sweetner twice a day, no change though with sweats after 1 week, but will continue..
Terri i noticed in another thread your sweats have eased using progestrone cream :-* but i thought it was estrogen that helped stop hot sweats, have i got it wrong ??? wondering if the cream might help me, as my night sweats really have me on my knee's after 10yrs.. :'(
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Hi Rosebush. I read...somewhere...that it's more the drop in estrogen causing the imbalance with the progesterone that causes the hot flushes, thereby increasing the progesterone is supposed to help. I get confused...!!! I'll try and find the info and post it here for you.... :-\
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Here it is...found it on http: www.johnleemd.com/store/faqs_progest_crm.html
Progesterone is needed in hormone replacement therapy for menopausal women for many reasons, but one of its most important roles is to balance or oppose the effects of estrogen. Unopposed estrogen creates a strong risk for breast cancer and reproductive cancers.
Estrogen levels drop only 40-60% at menopause, which is just enough to stop the menstrual cycle. But progesterone levels may drop to near zero in some women. Because progesterone is the precursor to so many other steroid hormones, its use can greatly enhance overall hormone balance after menopause. Progesterone also stimulates bone-building and thus helps protect against osteoporosis.
There's so much info about, it's difficult to know what to believe isn't it?
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Terri many thxs for the link :) its only when you read stuff like this, you tell yourself that makes sense. ::) How do you measure your 15-24mg dose?
x
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I don't really.....just dip my finger in and spread it......!
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Oh dear!! My story is a little different. I am nealy 60 now, started the menopause at 42. At 45 went on HRT. Used a few different ones over the years, ended up on Tibolone, marvellous stuff. Decided to give it a go coming off last year, just to see if I could cope. I slowly weaned myself off it for about 5 months then went cold turkey. Except for the hot flushes, which of course came back with a vengeance I feel just fine. I haven't actually slept through the night for years anyway so that doesn't bother me, the flushes do though. I try to avoid getting too warm so winter suits me, am dreading the summer, hope we don't have a hot one. I would have stayed on HRT for ever, the breast cancer risk never bothered me, it was the increased risk of stroke that made me decide, as a close friend of mine had one nearly two years ago, he is still disabled and can barely see. As I like to keep active, cycling and walking I just couldn't bear the thought of having to change my life so drastically. I'm contemplating trying a few remedies for the flushes but am rather dubious about many of them having worked in a health food shop for several years and seen many people disappointed by some of the remedies, also the fact that they are far from cheap. I think I may look into the starflower oil though just to see if that will help as I'd not actually heard of that being a remedy for flushes. If only the doctor could prescribe something for them other than HRT, you'd think in this day and age there would be something, wouldn't you?? ???
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Hi Happybird - welcome to the forum and thank you for such a positive first post!
Have a good browse around. Looking forward to hearing more from you. You may want to post in the New Members thread so that you don't get lost in all the other posts and others can welcome you.
Taz x
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I tried HRT and that didn't suit me but I have managed to control my symptoms when out of work by wearing loose clothing, not drinking anything with caffeine and keeping the front door open and bedroom window open. I have a very understanding partner.
My problems are when at work, I have to wear a uniform and work in an air-conditioned office then I can have 20 - 30 flushes a day. I work for a large organisation with plenty of other offices some not air-conditioned, but they will not hear of me moving or of not wearing the uniform. I think there could be a bit of a diversity/equality issue here related to our gender. Any ideas how I can pursue this and find some relief?
Any advice would be appreciated. Good luck to all those others who are suffering, I think you will eventually find what works best for you.
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I dont know if its mind over matter
The flushes have eased off heaps
Im still getting them but only a few and not as bad
Suzi Q
using the vagifem pressaries
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I've been keeping off alcohol lately as it always makes the hot flushes worse. We went to a friends house for a meal last night and I thought "sod it" and had several glasses of wine.......followed by 2 large Baileys to the point where I was slurring a bit! Not a single hot flush all evening and even once I got to bed, no flushes. What's going on????
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Well done Anni loads of wine, Baileys And NO sweats :ola: are you still using serenity & ACV?? ...tried ACV for 8wks...no change in sweats..so not buying anymore :'( however the last 2nights i have had more flushes than sweats, they are still red hot one's, but i do not have to go to bathroom and use flannel, just throw back duvet (4.5tog) cool off..then pull back on...not sure if this is the start of the end :) or just a fluke :( its great with weather being so cold, i cool down within 10mins, but i am off on long stay hols in 2wks and temps will be higher, soooo hoped my Hrt was going to give me a peaceful holiday, but think its not gonna happen..oh for a good nights sleep.. :(
Anni just thought ::) if i tried several glass's of wine and a few large Baileys, would i get lucky too.. ;D
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go on, give it a try! ;)
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Hi all,
I was prescribed HRT for many years, (I live in France where it is available as a stick-on patch) and did find that wonderful, as I had fought against the idea of HRT for a couple of years, - but at 60 was told I could no longer have this.
The hot flushes have returned though not as badly.
I take soya tablets, and black cohosh, though these would not have been sufficient when I was on HRT.
However, I found early on that a very strong mint was useful to nip the flush in the bud (not the little tubes of Extra Strong, a boiled sweet type mint, but a very strong one, or even a very minty humbug).
More recently I find licorice even more useful, just the ordinary black strips and coils, the soft ones are nicer, Pontefract cakes, or the white-coated ones.
Hope this helps someone!
Helen
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Anni i did try a white wine spritzer, but still got the blooming flushes, 9 in 7hrs..so maybe i will try a full bottle of red tonight..you do realise this is only for research purposes.. ;D ;D ;D
Hi hmh :) never tried licorice but will give it a go, not sure what mints are really hot, other than trebor one's.. i am willing to try out anything..was just hoping Hrt would solve my prob..but no such luck.. :(
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oooh, I worked my way through two large bags of Australian liquorice that my friend bought me.........
now they say it helps hot flushes....maybe that was the reason. hey, so I can drink alcohol as long as I eat liquorice first then!
better get some more in then (I love the stuff)
it does nothing to help my constipation problems though!! :)
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I will get some liquorice from Holland & B tomorrow..Anni will this make us Liq wino junkies.. ;D ;D mind you who cares, if it helps ease the hot sweats.. :)
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Liqwino junkies...yay!!! ;)
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Hi Happybird - welcome to the forum and thank you for such a positive first post!
Have a good browse around. Looking forward to hearing more from you. You may want to post in the New Members thread so that you don't get lost in all the other posts and others can welcome you.
Taz x
Hi, sorry I've only just spotted this, I'm still finding my way around here. As to my hot flushes, been on the starflower oil for a couple of weeks now and they have reduced the flushes. I also have been finding I get very hot feet at times, most strange. My sister-in-law suffers from the same thing. Anyway, I'm coping, but if I keep myself as cool as poss too, it helps. Been reading some of the other posts and one of you sleeps under a 4.5 tog duvet, I'm under a 13.5 so from that I deduce I'm not really suffering very much at all. Some of you sound really bad with the flushes, I feel very sorry for you all and hope you find something to help soon. 8)
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I am taking evening primrose oil combined with starflower oil, but it is too early really to say if it is making any difference to anything at the moment. I sometimes think I try that many different things that am not sure if it is this or that that is working at any one time, lol! Hoping once I have seen the gynacologist and had a good chat I will find something good. My other problem is feeling really, really cold even though my partner reckons I am radiating copious amount of heat from my body. I don't feel it, am just frozen through to my bones. One of my GP's tried to explain it by saying that because I was giving out such a vast amount of heat, my actual core temperature would be dropping, not sure if that makes sense or not. Does anyone else have this problem? Not sure whether my thyroid problem adds to this as that is one of the effects an underactive thyroid can produce, feeling cold all the time.
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Hot flushes can be very embarrassing and stressful when you are in company but the best way I have found to cope is rather than respond to the usual FIGHT or FLIGHT reaction when one starts, I now say openly to people, "I am having a flush, take no notice". At first I found it very hard to stay in a Board-room or a business meeting during my sometimes very deep hot flushes but once I say those words it makes me feel calmer because although I am probably deep peuce in colour and shining like a beacon, I am not trying to hide it and honestly, people just carry on as if nothing is happening and then of course it passes. At night, although I lose sleep because I have several during the night, I don't feel it as stressful or wearing as I used to do during the day. Anyway, try it and see if it helps. ::)
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I have tropical moments.
:hotflash:
Sandie
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Hi.
I am 48 and experience hot flushes, to start with I used to get in a panic, feel like I was going to faint or be sick.
Now when I get one I try to remain calm and breathe deeply until it subsides, read in a book somewhere that deep breathing helps. I also bought some old fashioned fans, the type that japanses geisha used to use. I keep one on my desk at work and one at home, it help to have a breeze so you can breathe in some cool air.
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Get a "Ladycare" magnet. honestly they work. I've had one in my knickers for months and I would say I'm flushing once every 2 days if that.
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I haven't had any alcohol for a week. No flushes, sleeping better. Hubby just offered to drive tonight so I opened the wine.
One glass.....hot flush!!
I had a stupid moment when I thought the hot flushes were leaving me at last...after 3 years.......
better go teetotal!
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Have to share this with all those who are suffering, feel almost evangelical about it. Peppermint tea, two cups a day, has stopped my hot flushes and night sweats altogether, I am sleeping through the night for the first time in about twelve months and feel great! I have also cut caffeine out of my diet completely, although I still succumb to chocolate now and then, but the peppermint tea really, really helps, would recommend it to everyone, in fact I have, in our staff room, amongst my friends and now on here.Hope it helps some people out the way it has helped me. :)
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Sorry... haven't read through all the posts but just wanted to ask.... does anyone else get this awful raw feeling/ nervousness in the pit of their stomach just prior to the hot flush starting?
I hate this feeling nearly as much as the horrible flushes themselves. Having come off antidepressants I wonder if this is making it worse too?
Now had these sort of flushes for almost 4 years..... and they're not going..... grrrrr :'(
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I am finding that since my doctor increased my anti-depressants my hot flushes have improved slightly, not sure whether it is just coincidence or what.
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Hi mhm
On HRT now but prior to that had those feelings you describe. With me they never turned into a flush but I think they were the adrenaline rush which can come with a hormone surge and that for many ladies it then turns into a hot flush. Think that would have happened to me eventually but I started HRT before the little b****** kicked in!
Bixby x
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Yes Magda - this used to happen to me. Horrible feeling in the stomach (which is the surge of adrenaline starting) like you were either going to need the loo or be sick, raised heartbeat, anxiety, breathlessness and then.... the sweat! It is quite normal and once you realise this it does get easier to cope with.
Taz x
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Hi didnt realise the flashes made you feel anxious too???? I know they have me a few times when lm getting a really bad one but the last 2 days lve felt like that or feel like this now without the flash following straight away very interesting breathless even though l know lm not really light headed woozy just not with it.. lve been wearing a magnet for a month now and eating meno cake dont know what meno was like before hyster so dont know how much theyve helped but if things could eb worse lm glad lve been wearing the magnet and suffering the cake lol must start my hrt !! x ps when will l notice a reduction in symptoms after starting hrt please? x
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Well I never knew that... ??? about the adrenaline surge and, yes, the instant feeling of desperately needing the loo, which then subsides a bit when the flush passes.
Do antidepressants help do you think with this feeling?
I'm afraid I have tried Peppermint tea but still the same problem... it gets me down so much. :(
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I've ordered some Sage tablets today...will give them a wee go ::)
I was using the Serenity cream but it's not working as well now. Going to try for a few days of nothing at all to clear my system and give the Sage a fighting chance...fingers crossed eh? :) Gawd only knows I'm suffering!!
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I am ten months from my hysterectomy being done aged 31 and thinking the menopause can not be any worse than period trouble and pain, well there just one set of problems gone with another set sent in, :( having tried the tablets and patches that don't work I am now on the implant which is surgically done every six months more pain and scars and is meant to last for six months but for me it lasts 3. unfortunatly for me its trial and error error being the word used mostly in my case, still I at least have my sainity. I have seen a nice menopause nurse today that put me in touch with you guys and am typing my hot flushes out lol ;D I never dreamt it would be so hard. My flushes started pretty much as soon as my operation was over and done but I do have to say the implant for all its faults does get rid of mine,
From Nasty Pasty
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Hi Nasty Pasty
:welcomemm:
There are a couple of other younger girls on here in your situation but even us oldies (50 - eek!) will want to welcome you. If you post on "New Members" more are likely to see it and introduce themselves.
Do check out the "Funnies" too ;D
Bixby x
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Awww bless ya :( x lm 44 had my hyster 11 weeks ago glad the hrt has now stopped mine they were awful :( l found drinking hot drinks made them worse anyone else? Wish l could help you your stil;l a babe !! Good luck x
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Hi Ladies
I havent posted in a long time but some of you will remember me ::)
I stopped posting because i felt I was letting the meno become the focus of my life so i made a decsion to turn things around ( see embracing the meno thread for details)
Since then like most ive tried every herbal under the sun, done the no alcohol, no chocolate, no caffeine bit, had hypnotherapy and been on a Trial to see if paced breathing and CBT would help which it did ...a bit ::)
Flushes..well dripping sweats really day and night almost hourly have plaqued me now for 2 1/2 years.
However at last progress has been made, a colleauque of mine who was suffering similarly, was trying Citalopram with remarkable effect.
So i hot footed of to my GP to see what he would say....as its an 'off licence' use for hot flushes he needed to check it out first. Anyway to cut a long story short, i started Fluoxetine 20mg on wednesday, and already they are almost gone, they are mild flushes, with a slight sweat across the brow. And joy of joys i have just had a nights sleep where i woke up once with a mild flush and was soon back to sleep :ola:
long may this last, if i have to be on them the rest of my life i will.
love to all my friends in mad meno land
poppinsxxx
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Wow Poppins that fantastic news! :cancan:
Nice to see you again by the way :)
Luckily I'm not a flusher as a rule but I'm sure your post will give other sufferers another option to think about.
I don't post as much these days either, I'm feeling much better after 5 years of peri meno. I went into town yesterday morning on my own and it suddenly struck me that I FELT COMPLETELY NORMAL!!! :bounce:
So to any newbies reading this, don't despair it DOES get better, either on it's own or with the help of medication like Poppins has found.
Catweazle x
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Hi Catweazle.
Nice to see you too :-*
Glad things are coming back to normal for you to. Apart from the sweats i am also feeling much better generally, less episodes of forgetfullness, much less ranting and raving over nothing, and now Ive got my thyroid sorted out more energy as well.
Just as an aside to all you ladies taking mega soya type products, it can interfere with thyroxine production, I know this time last year I tried this route an it wasnt long after my thyroid became a real problem, Im not saying it caused it as it is an another auto immune condition ive got, and rules out another herbal remedy.
Remember not all our symptoms are due to the meno, depite being tested normal for thyroid at the begining of this journey it is still possible to develop it at a later stage and still blame it all on the meno ::)
Yes I can echo your words Catweazle it does get better...its a pity it does take such a long time, but its not called the 'change for nothing i really have changed in myself too, and that needs to take time...I like who I am now, and thanks to the meno, i have made a number of new hopefully lifelong friends...a real added bonus :wub:
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Wee Rascal....any luck with the sage yet?
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Well....i'm taking it along with the 0.25 Estradot patch...so can't say what's doing what really but I don't want to stop either, just in case ;D
Flushes and sweats do seem to be reducing a bit now. I'm hoping that as time goes on and the estrogen builds in my system they'll go away. The sage tablets may be helping too, so will keep on taking them :)
Catherine x
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Hi Ladies
I havent posted in a long time but some of you will remember me ::)
I stopped posting because i felt I was letting the meno become the focus of my life so i made a decsion to turn things around ( see embracing the meno thread for details)
Since then like most ive tried every herbal under the sun, done the no alcohol, no chocolate, no caffeine bit, had hypnotherapy and been on a Trial to see if paced breathing and CBT would help which it did ...a bit ::)
Flushes..well dripping sweats really day and night almost hourly have plaqued me now for 2 1/2 years.
However at last progress has been made, a colleauque of mine who was suffering similarly, was trying Citalopram with remarkable effect.
So i hot footed of to my GP to see what he would say....as its an 'off licence' use for hot flushes he needed to check it out first. Anyway to cut a long story short, i started Fluoxetine 20mg on wednesday, and already they are almost gone, they are mild flushes, with a slight sweat across the brow. And joy of joys i have just had a nights sleep where i woke up once with a mild flush and was soon back to sleep :ola:
long may this last, if i have to be on them the rest of my life i will.
love to all my friends in mad meno land
poppinsxxx
Why were you not given 'Citalopram' though? Isn't Fluoxetine 'Prozac'?
Am interested as I have both upstairs in my drawer and just daren't start either....
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I am on Fluoxetine and have been told it is prozac, but it works, so don't really care what it is called, lol!
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No...I really meant why did you not get Citalopram? Was Prozac your GP's choice?
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Prozac is now used for hot flushes. Citalopram can also be used as they are both SSRI's but this tends to be the drug of choice when there is also anxiety involved.
Taz :)
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Hi Mad Hot Magda.
I was given fluoxetine/prozac for the simple reason that i had had them in the past fro depression so knew they suited me.
poppinsxx
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Oh poppins.... am in a real mess today. The depression is huge now. This also makes my flushes worse. I tried Prozac last summer and it did help with depression but made me even more anxious and gave me insomnia.
I'm neurotic about weight gain too.
I was on seroxat for over 12 years and gained nearly 4 stones.....
just don't know what to do.... :-\
Thank you for your replies. XX
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MH Magda,
It really does sound like you have got to give something a go , you cant stay like you are. I was on Prozac for 9 months several years ago, and weight gain was never a problem.
this time ive put on 2lbs but thats just because ive been away on holiday.
How about the citalopram if you have it in the house, you can always stop it if it doesnt suit.
love poppinsxx
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That's so good that prozac is getting the widespread use it deserves and doctors are getting better at prescribing it.
It's really helped me although the doctors are still pushing the only stay on it for six months thing.
I got back on them after a short break when I felt terrible again.
BUT :( the last few days during this heat (over 30 here in London) I have been feeling bad again. Continuous sweating (hideous!) and slightly heightened anxiety. I'm hoping it's not that the pills have stopped working just that the combination of heat and menopause is causing a temporary malfunction... :sweatdrop:
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Ladystardust.
Im glad youve said that, ive been worse the past6 couple of days and was worrying the opills wornt working. I think it must be the humidity as ive just had a week in France and didnt feel like this, it was hot but not humid.
Even tho i still managed to sleep heaps better, last night getting a full 4 hours :o
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I find that as the temperature rises, I sweat even more than usual. It has been very humid up here today and I felt as though I was dripping with sweat for most of the day. It is bloody awful. The things us girls have to put up with!
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Thank you ladies, it really helps to know about all your experiences and what you do to try and help. I can cope with the flushes during the day, but so little sleep at night is driving me mad. I will try the starflower oil or maybe Menopace as I already have that in the cupboard! Will let you know how I get on.
Love
Evie
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I could do with a feezer next to my bed that I can climb into when I'm drenched at night........actually I could just stay in it all night.......perhaps we could invent a bed that you just switch to "cooling" whenever we need it.....
What about a mattress that can "freeze"....
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Hi trhere annifanny,
You have identified a gap in the market, get designing girl, they will sell like Hot Cakes (Pardon the pun !)
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Just an update... I've found the Menopace has really helped with the hot flushes, I'm hardly getting any now and sleeping much better at night. The hot feet in bed are better too! When I forgot to take them over a weekend the hot flushes came back with a vengeance, so I'm pretty sure it's the Menopace working.
Good luck ladies with whatever you try.
Evie
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Same here larkrise, I've also got that auto-immune hypothyroidism. I'm going to be utterly childish and say "It's not fair" ! ;D
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morning all,
this passed week i have had the best sleeps ever :)
i have been taking clonidine , 3 tabs twice per day since may, and then i read a post about starflower capsules.
started taking 1000mg per day around june time.
it seems to have taken for ever to feel any different,but i must say this past week i have not had the horrible night sweats
any were near as bad . i have only had 2 at the most ,had been having up to 10 or more and sleep was impossible.
cant believe how much better i feel , but i think that could be because i have been able to have quality sleep.
thanks to all on here for the mounds of information you make available,if i had not found this site i think i would have
been in the looney bin by now.
have a good day ladies
regards
sunlover :)
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I had horrible, debilitating hot flushes, one thing that did work for me and some of my colleagues at work was acupuncture, it was fab, really. I am now on HRT and although I don't get hot flushes, I don't feel myself. This is my third type of HRT and I have to have a breakthrough bleed because of my age and because I need protection from osteoparosis. I wish that this had never happened to me so young, I would love to feel like me. (sorry, having a bad day I guess) xx
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Flushes are really the least of my symptoms. I get them many times a day but everything else is so much worse. I think that flush jokes are a big part of the reason that peri and meno is not taken seriously.
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I had rotten debilitating hot flushes also Hazymaiden, they lasted in severity for about two years and then tailed off a little in the third year. It is now approximately 7 years since I had a period and I still get 3 to 5 flushes per day, but they are not nearly as debilitating as the earlier ones - I think I'm used to them. Occasionally when I wake up first thing in the morning, I'll get one which is usually accompanied by palpitations and I hate that... urgh! horrible. I don't think I will ever be able to tolerate very warm atmospheres ever again, either indoors or outdoors and I accept that - I think my inner thermostat has been changed forever by meno.
I think you're right Lee - that flush jokes are a big part of the reason that menopause is not taken seriously.
I still have to drink a large glass of very cold water when I get a flush as they still make me incredibly thirsty... I've read other people experience this too.
Pam x
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Hi, I am fairly new [3 days old] . With ref to your experiences Claire. I have not had a period for nearly 6 months and have had the flushes for at least 18mths. But recently things have got much worse, panick attacks , severe dizziness, feeling sick, a feeling of not being able to get a grip on life. All these things seem to escalate once a month around the time I would have normaly had a period. Wondering if anyone else has experienced this. It has been so bad this time that I realy could not face eating anything more than a slice of toast. Lost 2lb in weight last week. Great for the figure but not for the mind. Doctor [male] just said, quote, (what do you expect me to do?) could have slapped him. >:( This is my second week off work as I work alone and just cannot face it as I feel so ill. Keep on telling myself not to be so stupid as it is a natural process for all of us.This site is realy helpful, thankyou to you all.
Alexia
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Alexia, I think you need to see a different gp! A lot of us have had to try several - I'm now with a brilliant one so it was worth all the hassle (even changed surgery!)
Had all your symptoms last year, lost far too much weight and was really quite ill - much better now I'm on HRT - not perfect but functioning again! :) I'm not saying HRT is neccessarily right for you but you need to see an informed gp who can discuss the options with you.
Bixby x
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Hi Im Julia, and this is my first post on the forum after a friend recomended i join a couple of days ago :)
I have been somewhat confused by the responses all the doctors i have been to have give me when i asked if my symptoms were due to the menopause, i have been having flushes now for about 4 years, but one Gp just simply said this was due to my being overweight and type 2 diabetic, I was also getting very heavy periods which were so severe that they were making me extremely anaemic, with a Hb as low as 8.9 at times. eventually i was refered to a gynae consultant and after a hystoscopy to have a look inside my uterus i was diagnosed with fibroids and fitted with a mirena coil to help control the symptoms. unfortunatley this fell out at the next period due to the still very heavy flow, it also increased the flushes. The consultant then discharged me and said that the fibroids would shrink by themselves once my menopause was completed, as fibroids were dependant on oestrogen to grow. Although the periods remained as heavy, slowly over the last couple of years they became shorter in duration, but i then started with loads of other Meno problems, irregular heartbeat and palpitations, (ECG showed mild heart ischemia) the panic feelings, depression and that awful sickness at times of the month, and mainly in the mornings. I felt ill and exhaused, but despite all this my Gp said i wasnt going through the menopause yet according to my blood test results, despite my being 53yrs old, needing to sleep under a fan every night, and all the rest of the symptoms, very dry skin and vagina, and total loss in libido.
Eventually i had totally had enough to a point where i felt suicidal, i was visiting my elderly father one day when i stood up and blood just poured down my legs and all over his floor, despite my using incontinence pads to try and hold the flow, no ordinary sanitary towel or tampon could cope, so he then realised just how bad things had got and called an ambulance, saying that i was suffering a heamorage. he then rang one of his neighbours, who lives on a nearby farm, but who is also a top lecturer in gynaecology at the local University med school, and he agreed to see me down at the hospital where he also still worked as a consultant. from then on, my Dad aranged with him to treat me as a private patient, and after an examination, i was diagnosed with fibroids and polyps, and told that yes, i was actually menopausal, and needed urgent surgery with an Endorometrial ablation(microwave removal of the lining of the uterus which is perminant) to stop me from being weakened further from the heavy bleeding and anaemia, which was also making my heart problems worse.
Well that was 6 weeks ago, and im starting to feel a little better after the operation, although the rest of the menopause problems are continuing, and im due to see the consultant again during the first week in December, although he did say that HRT wasnt for me at this stage as he didnt want to give me any oestrogens due to the fibroids, my gp has prescribed Motilium to cope with the sickness, 2mg diazepam to help with the panic, but to be used very sparingly, im only allowed one 28 tab pack per month, beta blockers for the heart probs and palpitations, and St johns wort for the depression( after i coudlnt tollerate any of the antidepressants she tried me on, mainly because they made the night sweats much much worse), I do find that the St Johns Wort helps a lot with the insomnia and depression as well as lessening the night sweats, but you do have to keep a check on your blood pressure, as a side effect is that it can raise it somewhat in certain people, and can have an effect on how other medications you may be taking and how they work, so best taken under the care of your GP or health care provider, it is also the most popularly prescribed antidepressant prescribed in Germany.
Sorry for the long rant, but i feel so much better for being able to share my experiances and read of others experiances on this brilliant website, i helps so much to know there are others out there going through similar situations, and sharing hints and tips of how to make life a little easier in the journey through this stage of our lives.
Julia
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Hi Julia, Welcome to the forum, You've had a really rough time, poor you. :hug:
It sounds like you're finally in a better place. I'm sure others will welcome you too, although it may get missed in this thread, new members may get noticed more.
Eddie. x
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Hi Julia
:welcomemm: from me too.
You'll find lots of support and understanding here. As Eddie says, more folk read the "New Members" section, so might be worth posting on there too.
Meanwhile, have a good look round and join in - and don't forget to check out the "Funnies" ;D
Bixby x
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Hi Julia - welcome to the forum where you will find lots of support and friendship.
You may like to read this on fibroids http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/fact_sheets/html/fibroids.html so that you are ready with questions when you see the consultant again in December. It seems a shame that you weren't offered a hysterectomy, in all honesty, with your history of dreadful bleeding. As you will see the ablation can often be teamed with removal of the fibroids. Did you have any of yours removed or were they too deep? Obviously a hyster would remove all the fibroids and you would then be able to take HRT, if you wanted to, to help with all the other symptoms.
It sounds as if you have a lot on your plate healthwise and am pleased that you are beginning to feel better. As the others have said if you introduce yourself under New Members then you will probably get more replies.
Taz x :)
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Hi Julia :) What a dreadful few years you have suffered, so pleased you are feeling a little better now, hope this continues, if not, keep a note of everything and show to the Consultant in Dec.. :-*
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Hi Julia
Welcome from me too :welcomemm:
Sounds like you've had a really tough time! I hope that now you've joined us you'll feel better just knowing that you're not alone. The meno journey can be a very trying one and it doesn't help when useless GPs don't take you seriously does it!
Hope you feel better soon and keep posting!
Catweazle x :)
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A big thankyou for the warm welcome everyone :)
Im still finding my way around the forum, but when i find the right place for new members, i will post up and say hi to all the members who may not have spotted this thread, im really looking forward to becoming a regular poster on here and sharing the ups and downs we all seam to be going through.
On a more positive note, I received my hystology results in the post today from my Consultant regarding the ablation, and its good news, no abnormal cells were found in the fibroids or polyps, they are free from any signs of cancer 8)
He has also postponed my appointment in December until March, to give me a chance to experiance a few more menstrual cycles to see how the hormones are effecting me now the operation has been done, as apparently it can make a difference, he will then decide if i need any further treatments to help me through the menopause.
The reason that i didnt have a full hysterectomy was because they thought it would be too risky for me given my other health problems, so opted for the shorter less invasive ablation instead, the whole proceedure took less than an hour, and there were no external incisions ;).
Julia
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Ah yes thats all the things i do...giving up chocolate was interesting as iv only recently wondered if it was a culprite, do you think drinking chocolate has to go to???
I try to eat soya desserts as soya is suppose to help.
Alcohol definatly makes over heating worst.
I dont seem to flush but over heat after half 9 in the evening and through the night untill about 6 or 7 in the morning.
God when will this all stop.
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i dont get the hot flushes...does everybody get them ,,someone told me the menopause is worse if you ,is this true :o
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They come later, I think. I started HRT while still peri and hadn't got as far as flushes. I had night sweats but they usually come before the daytime ones. Think the flushes are more common when you're post-meno but hopefully I'll be on HRT until I'm past them! ;D
Bixby x
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hi everyone
i never had any hot flushes ,waited years for them to do the menopause test ,which they said i was too young .eventually got the family planning to do the test which came back that i had gone threw the menopause .
for the last 2 months i have been in my home ,carnt seem to find the energy ,motivation to do anything even dress properly my hairs a mess i just lost intersest in everything .dont see my friends i argue with everyone and then in the next breath im crying ..my confidence has just upped and left .life is a abslute nightmare ..
i am useing hrt but dont think its helping ....someone told me if you dont get the flushes you get the menopause worse .. :'(
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hi Marilyn seems like yout having a bit of a time. Wonder how old you are? x Allyson
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hi all
i'm 48 but had these symptoms for soo long and new something was wroung they kept putting it down to depression and then aniexty but knew in myself that something was wroung .all the classic signs except the flushes i asked soo many times about the menopause but they said no ur too young and i was having heavey periods ,they recomended that i have the mirina coil which stopped my periods completely but was still not feeling myself went back and asked for the test again they said no ,so i went off and had it done privately it came back as being 50 and suggested perimenapausel . i was still feeling so unwell dizzines panicky couldnt fiquire it out ,so back to the doctor who decided to do the test again .this time it came back she said ohh dear think we better refer you to a menopause clinic ..i wasnt so upset about going threw it ,it was the way they made me feel saying things like theres nothing wroung with you i even put myself threw counselling to see if it was me lol it was'nt ;D.doctor at the clinic asked me how i felt about going threw the menopause i told him i was more happy to find out what it was because i felt like i was going made . he referred me to have a internal scan and bone scanes because they werent sure how long ihad been like it .everything was fine thank god and i was reffered by to my doctors who priscribe hrt patches everiol 25 but they dont seem to do anything
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Hi there, I'm 51 and new to this forum - heard about it on the BBC, and am very happy to see all these posts.
My Hot Flash story: Almost a year ago, the day my period was due, I had my first hot flash. It started with minor heat, but within a few days it was brutal. I went to an acupuncturist who had done amazing work on a back problem years ago (muscle spasms kept me in bed - one treatment, and no more muscle spasms!). This doctor (yes, in China they first become a GP, then specialize in Acupuncture) gave me one treatment, and my hot flashes were gone within 3 days. I went for a second treatment a week later under her recommendation, and my circulation seemed to be drastically improved. I went from always being cold (especially fingers and feet) to a warm flush like getting into a nice bath while I lay on her table with the needles in me. No more temperature problems... and my period came back the next month.
A few months later, the same thing - skipped period - acupuncture - period came back - no more hot flashes.
Now 6 months later - same thing - skipped period, but now there seem to be more symptoms added to hot flashes. Mood issues, lack of focus and motivation, sleep issues (heart palpitations, flashes, restlessness). I am afraid of drifting back into depression (bad case about 10 years ago that I'm afraid to go back to). I am now living in Scotland, and have just found a Chinese acupuncturist in town, so will give it a try and let you know how it goes. I'm also interested in the herbal remedies your posts have mentioned, particularly Starflower Oil - will check that one out. Thanks for your posts!
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Hi Zamboni
:welcomemm:
I didn't get as far as hot flushes before other symptoms led me to start HRT but I have read that they seem to come and go with periods and then kick in properly once periods stop for good.
Hope you have success with your new acupuncturist. I had a couple of sessions lasy year which didn't have any great effect but it was very pleasant and relaxing.
If you'd like to post on "New Members", more will be along to welcome you soon.
This is a great place - a lifesaver for many of us. Don't forget to check out the "Funnies" ;D
Bixby x
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Yeah another Scot. Welcome from me too. Eddie. x
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Hi Zamboni, looking forward to hearing more about your acupuncture....
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Update on Hot Flashes & Acupuncture: Well it's Day 3 since the needles, and no change. I remember last time that it took a few days to really kick in, but am still getting 1 or 2 during the day, and one every hour or two late at night and early morning until I get out of bed. I don't get that part... as soon as I'm up, I may get one more, but then the hot flashes stop! Does that sound familiar to y'all out there?
I go back for a second treatment on Tuesday - where he put the needles was different than the previous Doc, so will speak with him about that. If things aren't working after a second try, will look at other options. It may also be that the last couple of bouts with the flashes were test runs, and I'm in it for good now... who knows.
I can live with a couple of flashes during the day except when I'm wearing a down (duvet) jacket... holy schmokes! Nowhere for the heat to go! At night tho it's brutal, as I'm sure many of you have experienced. I'm not a great sleeper as it is, so not getting a decent night is playing havoc on my productivity.
Will update again as time goes... thanks for your comments!
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I think most ladies find that the hot flushes start at night and progress to being during the day as well later in the process. I didn't get as far as the daytime ones before I started HRT for other symptoms. Now only get a couple of gentle night ones for a couple of days a month during my period. The lack of sleep was one of the reasons I went on HRT. I hope the acupuncture works for you this time but sadly, a lot of ladies have reported that alternative therapies aren't much help once their symptoms really kick in. :(
Bixby x
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So I went for another round of Acupuncture. It's been 9 days since the first, and no relief from the hot flashes/night sweats. This time the doctor recommended trying a Chinese Medicine: Gengnianan. Day one of that - I don't know if it was the acupuncture, Gengnianan, or a large dinner, but I slept better in between hot flashes. I still woke up, but got better quality in between. I also had more energy for my morning workout routine - much appreciated, as I was feeling like a slug.
I also picked up some Starflower, but don't want to mix things - will wait to see if the Gengnianan helps. If not, will cut that, then try the Starflower. If neither work, I will likely go for HRT - I can't afford to 'not sleep' - I work and am doing an advanced degree, so I need solid rest to get maximum benefit from my brain cells.
Will report as it goes.
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Hope you get some relief using "alternatives" but have to say that I'm very happy with my decision to take HRT. It has truely "given me my life back" which for me far outweighs the possible negatives.
Look forward to hearing from you again.
Bixby x
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So my last period was 20 October, and hot flashes started 20 November - the day my period was to start. by 29 December: 2 acupuncture sessions, Gengnianan, Starflower Oil. No joy. Hot flashes got to more than once an hour - every hour, day and night. Was taking a sleeping tab to get some quality sleep inbetween flashes (each woke me up) so that I was able to think/work the next day. Gave up.
So went to the doctor and got HRT. I'm not in any of the risk groups for problems, and was told 2-3 days and the hot flashes should go away. Day 3, and I just took off my sweater for a hot flash. Not quite as severe as they were, and not quite as frequent, but still really annoying and draining. Hopefully they will go away soon, or I have to go back on sleeping tabs - will then go back to the doctor.
Found this website (http://www.power-surge.com/educate/whatsinahotflash.htm) when I was looking up how to prevent hot flashes - figured that during the years I will be on HRT I can find ways to change diet or lifestyle to prevent them from hitting me when I inevitably go off the hormones. I already excercise frequently, eat high-fibre and healthy, but there are a few things in there that may be beneficial for prevention.
Here's hoping the hormones kick in...
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Hi Zamboni - I hope your HRT works quickly. Are you on patches or pills? Patches can stop hot flashes within a day or so but pills can take longer to build up in the system.
Your idea to watch your health and "take charge" is very good. It is not sensible to just rely on HRT. Keep up the exercise!
Taz x
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Thank you Thank you thank you. ;D ;D ;D I've just found this web site and feel better already. I am 46 years old and have not had a period for 18 months thank goodness. ;D Recently though i've been feeling either down or angry and want to cry, for no reason :'(. This web site has given me a better understanding of what i'm going through. ;D. I,ve been having hot flashes for about 2 years, and the best thing for me is leaving the bedroom window open and sleeping naked. My husband works nights and gets home after i've gone to sleep, and he closes the window then. In the summer I have a fan at the side of me juston my face and that seems to keep all my body cooler.
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Well where do I start, the mere fact that I am having to concentrate with all my mite to answers this question ( How am I coping ) says it all, Not coping very well at all :'( I know it is only early days for me as my flushes only started in Dec last year, but after reading some of these posts of ladies having them for years has reduced me to tears ( again ) I have regular flushes all day long and even more thrugh the nite, I feel so dehidrated, even though I am drinking more water than I have ever drank before. I just feel sooooooo tired, upset, on edge, and to think this is going to last for months - years ?? Is too much to bear. I went to the doctors ( waste of time ) came out of there with a scrappy piece of paper with the name of a couple of health shop remedies on it, so I rushed to the health shop spent a fortune, only to find that the side effect of the pills was dehidration, so I have had to stop taking them. ( crying again sorry ) I am getting to the point where I just don't want to get out of bed. Well thats about it don't know what else to say ( headache coming on )
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Hi Michelle
:welcomemm:
Did the gp discuss HRT with you? If not, go and see a different gp! It might not be the route you decide to take but it should be considered.
Maybe try starting a new thread on "New Members" than more will be likely to see it and welcome you - newbies often get missed in the middle of existing threads.
There's lots of info in the Green Menu and our posts - not all bad! ;) Browse around, join in and don't forget to check out the "Funnies." ;D
Bette x
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Hi Michelle, My blood test came back def meno, and the g.p. i saw told me "if you are having trouble try flash fighters, take calcium, and more veg. £30 later i was quite annoyed so saw my normal g.p. male, who didn't even wait for me to ask, was already deciding which hrt to start me on. Eddie. x
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Hi Michelle - welcome to the forum.
I think that if you want relief from your flushes and you are not opposed to taking HRT then you should ask for it from your GP and if you are refused it then question the reasoning and if you are not happy then change your GP. If your flushes are coming so thick and fast then I don't believe that any supplements will help you long term.
You will find lots of support and advice on here. If you post under the New Members thread more of us will be able to welcome you - sometimes new posters can get lost in a thread which already up and running.
Taz
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Larky - now that's called being organised!! Sadly I no longer am that...... :'( :'(
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Larky, you're not misleading! :)
I have today applied two coats of varnish to two bedroom floors. It's all I've done all day.
Now, two years or so ago I'd have got that done before my breakfast!
I need a bomb up my @r$e!!!
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Hi everyone
This is my first post but I have found this forum very helpful over the past 6 months. I am 46 and started having hot flushes in April 2010. Initially I thought they weren't too much of a problem but they became so bad that I was being woken up every hour through the night and was completely exhausted. I have a full-time demanding job and just couldn't function. Daytime flushes were not great but the lack of sleep was just horrible and impossible to deal with.
I decided to ask my GP for HRT and was initially put on Premique low dose. I had horrible headaches and, having read posts on this forum, realised I should be on a cyclical HRT. I took Premique cycle for 3 months but the side effects from the little green pills (ie progesterone phase) were just horrible - anxiety, very painful breasts, grumpiness on a shockingly grumpy scale. Work has been very stressful recently but I don't think the green pills helped my ability to cope! Premique cycle has been discontinued and I had had enough of the gremlins so, having done some research here, I decided to ask my GP for Tridestra. My logic was that the nasty progesterone pills will only happen every 3 months so I should be able to cope if it all goes horribly wrong again. I have a very nice GP who is happy to go along with my trial and error approach but I can't help feeling that it would be good to have a medical expert telling me what to do instead of researching it myself.
I took my first Tridestra pill today so fingers crossed this will be the miracle pill I have been looking for - no headaches, no hot flushes, lots of energy, no more losing the plot on a daily basis.. ::)
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Hi losingtheplot
:welcomemm:
Glad we've been of help and that you're decided to join us! Look forward to hearing more from you. Hope this HRT works better for you - do let us know.
Bette x
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Hi there to you all. :) It is so encouraging to read some of your stories and thank god I am not the only one whose life has been made a complete misery by hot flushes. As I sit here dreading another miserable sleepless night of hateful sweats and aching joints I am wondering why? What function do they have. What dreadful message do they give us. I can only think that nature, having decided we cant be baby machines anymore, has engineered to make our lives so miserable that we want to stop the whole thing.
I took HRT at 50 when the hot flushes became so unbearable that I could not function in a normal way. I lowered the dose to just two tablets a week which kept the wretched things at bay.
But like a good girl and following the docs advice I decided to come off at 58.. and yes so so, slowly, just as they tell you. But here I am one year later, back to square one with violent 24 times a day(yes I have counted..how sad is that!) hot flushes, no sign of them abating and to be honest feeling that my quality of life is so dreadful that I am prepared to go back on HRT and stay on it forever. If it shortens my life then I would rather have a short happy life than this long drawn out misery. The thought of 15 years of this is abominable.
My hot flushes start with a little twinge then a huge wave of nausea followed by the feeling that someone is holding an electric fire to my face. I get desperate for air and wipe dripping sweat off my face and arms and chest. Bad ones last for half an hour cycling from mild to severe. In the evenings I go and stand outside barefoot in the cold just to get some relief. At night I throw all the covers off 6 or 7 times and open the windows and just lately I have been getting some even stranger night chills when I am extra extra cold and shivering. What is that about? All this for a girl who never used to sweat at all is just no fun.
I have just been prescribed Clonidine for high blood pressure ( which I personally think is caused by the stress of the hot flushes and lack of sleep!!) which my nice young GP thinks might help. It is making me feel very strange so I am not too hopeful..I wonder if anyone else has any experience of it. I have tried lots of supplements.. might give red clover a go .. meanwhile my sympathies go out to fellow sufferers. It all came as such a shock to me. I am a doctor phobe, dont take any medicines unless I have to and hate the sight of the surgery.. but, by god, this has got me floored!
I will report back if the Clonidine has any effect... thanks for giving us a chance to share experiences and support!
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Hi jesi
:welcomemm:
Hope that the things you're trying now help you but otherwise I'd go back onto HRT if I were you! I've only been on it a couple of years (now 51) and current plan is to try weaning off at 55. However, if the symptoms return, I'll be back on it like a shot - quality over quantity every time for me! ;)
You'll find lots of info and support here - maybe introduce yourself in "New Members" as you might get missed in an existing thread and others will want to welcome you. :)
Bette x
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HELP!!! :-\
I'm 53, been meno for nearly 5 years now. Hot flushes day and night, lack of sleep etc. My doc won't let me have HRT as my Mum had breast cancer, aged 80.
I have tried many, many alternatives, nothing's worked. My doc has tried many non-hormonal drugs for me but they either don't work or work for a while then stop.
The latest one being "Abufen" which is "Beta Alanine". This seemed to work for a couple of months but then I gave up smoking last November and the hot flushes are now worse than they've ever been.
We've just had to buy a new mattress as our old one literally rotted! :o
My weight has increased a lot but I put this down to stopping smoking.
However....I've been searching on the internet for info on Abufen and Beta-Alanine" and found that it's used by weight trainers to build muscle and improve appetite.....so how on earth can this drug also help with hot flushes??? >:(
I'm wondering if this is contributing to the weight gain.... :boobs: :boobs:
Can anyone advise?
:'( :'(
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Susan, I agree. I live in France, he's a French doctor and very nice but very adamant!
I'll just keep going back until he gets fed up with me and has to give me something that works!
I am currently seeking further info on my Mums breast cancer type (she died in 2004 of a brain tumour).
I have done some research and apparently if it was "oestrogen fed" it would be an issue regardless of her age.
ho hum!! ::)
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Hi All
Just reading your threads on hot flushes and was wondering if anyone else has had a a connection with the flushes and high Blood pressure. My pressures always been low but flushes start and its sky high, now on tablets for it. Just a thought, I ve given up trying to understand my body anymore, ha ha
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Not sure where I should post this but thought it might be helpful to do a Tridestra update. Im on Day 18 and feeling ok. Much calmer, more rational and able to cope with most of the c..p at work! I was getting yucky sick headaches about 1-2 hours after taking the tablets in the morning so decided to take them at bedtime. Im still sleeping well with no hot flushes, wake up with a bit of a headache but not too bad and able to function ok. Im dreading the little green pill (progesterone phase) but so far so goodish. One of my colleagues has started having menopause problems and I have recommended this forum as I have found it so useful. I also recommended this article as it summed up our problems: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/8376768/How-do-professional-women-cope-with-the-menopause.html
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Hi All - Interesting reading all your stories, and it is evident that we are all suffering; some more than others. I just want to share my experiences with you and also remedies I have tried.
In June last year, I had a total hysterectomy. I knew I would experience some menopause symptoms, but as they came on immediately, I thought I would get over them more quickly. How wrong was I?
In week 6 of my post op recovery, my Mother was diagnosed with a terminal illness and was given until xmas. I was trying my best to be supportive to her and my dad at that time, being signed off work supposedly trying to get back to some kind of fitness. However, she deteriorated (or gave up) and died in September last year.
I went back to work in November. I aren`t someone who takes medications easily. So I have tried Homeopathy, for both menopause, grief and broken thumb! Every morning I take 1000 mg starflower oil, a calcium supplement, and Menopal (red clover, cohosh). I was also taking Menopace (night) but felt they were keeping me awake so stopped taking them.
My colleagues suggested Apple Cider vinegar in hot water, this did help with poor sleep pattern for a time and the sweatshttp://
This week I started drinking Soya Milk (with drinking chocolate added to taste like milk shake). Too early to say whether it is working.
But some nights are worse than others, I seem to have a couple of good nights, and then several bad nights!
I am working full time, absolutely knackered, I have painful heels and ankles making it nearly impossible to walk first thing in the morning, for which the GP said to do exercise. My hands are stiff in the morning, and I have now developed sore elbow and shoulder. I really don`t get why.
I am permanently tired, and tearful most of the time, which I don`t know whether is because of my grief or due to the menopause. I am having counselling. I have tried walking regularly, but now I am back at work, I am just too tired to do this at night when I get home.
I am now going to try Aromatherapy. Geranium oil is good for balancing hormones. I need to make time for myself and my husband. Our relationship, although still good and strong, has limited sexual activity. Even a cuddle brings on hot flushes. I also suffer with vaginal atrophy for which i have tried lubricants.
My Gp is reluctant to give me HRT and to be honest, I don`t really want to risk the breast cancer (which my mother had at 59 which came back 19 years later)!, and after having an operation to reduce risk of other cancer.
To conclude. my flushes/night sweats vary from being very bad to tolerable.
I don`t know whether the tiredness, weapiness and mood swings are due to the menopause, grief or the hysterectomy.
I have put on two stone in weight!
My quality of life is absolutely awful. So do I risk the HRT.
My sister has gone through the menopause naturally (but not had a hysterectomy) and her symptoms lasted about 4/5 years. Even now though, she can still get some flushes.
I think I have tried most remedies, but if anyone can recommend anything else, please, please, please let me know. Even though I am spending an absolute fortune on remedies.
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I was getting 10-12 hot flushes during the night. I never had the "waking up dripping" type of hot flush and I don't seem to get them during the day. Obviously I was suffering from lack of sleep.
My GP prescribed me Clonidine which is a non-HRT solution.
For me this has worked extremely well. I now only wake a couple of times during the night.
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Can anyone tell me - do flushes just stop?
I haven't had one in several weeks and I'm constantly feeling my boobs :o to see if they're tender/pre-menstrual - they aren't. I'm just waiting for a flush to slap me and shout "Behind youuuuu". Does this crappy flushing actually end suddenly - or just peter out?
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The only time mine just stopped were when I was building up for a period. I didn't get any of the other premenstrual symptoms - just a stopping of the sweats. How long is it since your last period? Let us know what happens!!
Taz x
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Taz - I've gone almost 2 years and then 18 months.
I'm feeling the crampiness so I think it might be a hormonal last-gasp!
Just going to enjoy a few more days of feeling normal.
Larky - perhaps that's where I'm going to be next and it's all part of the wind-down.
I'm trying to enjoy how I feel now and not dwell on the return of the meno-monster :-*
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I have been having night flushes for 18 months and they are getting gradually worse. I have a demanding full time job and this is really taking its toll. I don't get flushes during the day at all and have no other problems so would really like to avoid HRT.
Sleeping with a fan or a window open is a non-starter as I am a very light sleeper and the slightest noise wakes me up.
I take Black Cohosh with sage which seemed to work for a while but not any more. Red Clover and menopace didn't seem to make any difference.
I will try the starflower suggested by someone but if anyone else has any bright ideas I would love to hear them.
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Hi sgf1960
:welcomemm:
No advice on alternatives, I'm afraid as I'm on HRT but you might find some ideas in the Green Menu under "Alternative Therapies" and "Alternative Techniques."
You might want to introduce yourself by starting a thread on "New Members" as newbies often get missed in the middle of existing threads and others will want to welcome you.
Bette x
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Wonder why some of us suffer hot flushes, and some of us dont, even though we are all in meno?
Ive never had a hot flush...yet I have ALL of the other usual symptoms, I sometimes feel a bit jealous, as I can remember my Nan having them, and I always wondered what they felt like, and I dont think Mum suffered with them to the same extent as my Nan and some of you lady's.
I would like to have one just to see [feel] what its like...... or maybe I should be careful what I wish for?......... ???
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Yes be careful Coffee Mate :D what do they feel like. Firstly, I would begin to feel sick and slightly dizzy and also a bit like I might need to rush to the loo, then my heart rate would start to rise and I would get a horrible feeling like I couldn't get enough air into my lungs - I wanted to fling my arms wide somehow to get some more air in - my mouth would go very dry and then the heat would start. With me the heat spread from my chest somewhere. It would travel up and then down my body and, lastly, the sweat would break out. The back of my neck would sweat leaving my hair really wet underneath and then the sweat would run down my back and into the waistband of my trousers and knickers. Under my boobs would be soaking and, lastly, it would drip off the end of my nose if I didn't have a tissue. My glasses would steam up too which would cause hilarity with my pupils. :hotflash:
Of course at the beginning it was just a few little hot feelings and I thought, smugly, "what's so dreadful about flushes?" ;D
Are you well into meno CM - sorry can't remember!
Taz x
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Bloody hell they do sound awful Taz, I am post meno now, about three years?
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Are they a bit like morning sickness?
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;D Yeah it sounds just the way I saw my poor nan have them, she would be sitting talking to us, then all of a sudden we would watch her go beetroot red in front of our eyes, and she made us laugh as she would say "Ohh hang on a minute flush coming on" ;D
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:(I have been getting hot flushes for about a year now. So far they are not causing too much of a problem. The main ones are at night when I seem to be soaking wet all down my front but able to pull the covers on off on off and still manage to get enough sleep................depending if I'm having a deep sleep period or a can't get to sleep and intermittent sleep period and for the latter then it bothers me as I'm tired for days afterwards. I'm getting them more during the day but find instead of being cold blooded I can now go out without a coat and I'm not at all cold. I haven't experienced the red flush across my face or neck yet and I hope I don't because I have NO confidence at all at the moment and that would just finish me off :-\
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hi, last year i thought, hot flushes not too bad, keep me warm in the winter, ha how daft was I, now, through the night and all day, dizzy, red hot, on fire, sweaty, awful, cant count how many a day, clothes on and off, i even go and stand in the chiller at work mmmm heaven. what im wondering is how long they ll go on for, i know everyones different but cant think of this for years, what a nightmare, im not taking anything for meno problems, just high blood pressure tablets, my sister s lasted for less than a year, but then she just stopped her periods and has had hardly any problems at all, (she even done a pregnancy test cos everything just stopped) lucky thing. just wondered what the average time was for flushes. thanks
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Hi ducky ducky
Have your periods stopped? As you say, it seems to be different for everyone but I think they say that symptoms (including flushes) increase for about 2 years after your last period and then gradually decrease again.
Bette x
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Thanks for your replies, I had last period in November last year, and I have thought about HRT but am I right in thinking your periods return when your on it, and Ive even been told that when you stop taking it all the meno symptons return, is that right? I don t fancy that. I ve been trying to go through the meno without anything but I think the flushes are getting the better of me, sorry I m moaning now.
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Nothing wrong with moaning, ducky ducky - we all need to sometimes and this is a great place to do it! ;)
If it's less that a year since your last period, you would need to go on a sequi HRT which means that you would get a monthly bleed. You could then change to a conti (no-bleed) one when you're 54. As to the symptoms returning once you stop taking it, well the jury is out on that one. Some find that it happens, some don't.
I went for quality of life now - I'll worry about what happens when I come off it later! TBH, if I try coming off and still feel bad, I plan to stay on it forever but we'll see! :D
Bette x
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Hello all, I've just found this website and reading all the posts has helped. I am only 42 and started experiencing 20 - 25 flushes a day a year ago! My doc thought I had cancer so after some major tests was so relieved it was only early menopause! I have two kids and the youngest was only 1 when my symptoms first started. again how lucky am I, if we'd left it any later I might not have had by gorgeous little boy. :) Anyway, so what with pregnancy, breastfeeding, toddler sleep training and now menopause I haven't slept for 7 years! But if I feel down I get lovely cuddles from my littlies and I started a new creative business a year ago which keeps me really busy so at night I'm so shattered I'll get to sleep fine and usually now only wake 3/4 times a night. It helps that I also live in a drafty old Victorian house! I've recently taken up running, which is really helping too, not only giving a sense of achievement but much needed space on my own. I don't drink caffeine (gave up 15 yrs ago) eat healthily but have found cutting down alcohol ( :() and spicy foods help.
Are there any other younger menopause starters out there? None of my friends have any idea what I'm going through. It would be good to talk....
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Hi Laulie
:welcomemm:
It would be worth you introducing yourself on "New Members" as newbies often get missed in the middle of existing threads and then more will be along to welcome you. ;)
There are plenty of "younger ladies" on here and us "oldies" (I'm 51 ;D ) like to share it all too! Many of us have friends who are just "floating through" so it's great to come on here and chat with others who really understand.
Have you considered HRT? At your age it would only be replacing the hormones which your body should be producing naturally and would help to protect your heart and bones.
Bette x
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What a lovely positive post - welcome to the forum Laulie. I agree with Bette - introduce yourself under New Members so that more can welcome you. I also agree with the fact the medical advice would be for you to use HRT until around 50 years of age. This will prevent osteoporosis and also protect the heart.
Taz x :)
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Layers of cotton, that can be taken off quickly and put back on when the cold shivers hit after.
I use short sleeved tops with cardigans/ zipped fleeces/ body warmers in winter as these can be opened.
I have just put all my jumpers to charity shop. :) :)
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hi ladies,
Was recommended to join this forum by Jemima - so glad I did! What a relief to know other women are going through the same things I am! I am normal after all!!!
Biggest problems for me at the moment:
Night sweats
Crying out for a full nights sleep - really getting me down. Sick of buying new pillows every other week!
Itchy skin
Starts when I get into bed - usually the soles of my feet - so if its not he sweats keeping me awake - its the itchy skin!
Dry lifeless hair/dry skin/flaky nails
Just hate the way I look :(
Weight gain
Got to be one of the worst parts of all of this. So depressing to see it all pile on - when I don't eat any differently to how I did before :(
I was on Estrodot patches after my total hysterectomy in Jan '09 - but after a lot of family problems and bereavments - stopped using the patches and figured I should just get it over with now rather than delay the inevitable - but now not sure if this is the right thing to do?
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Hi Chicken
:welcomemm:
Hope you don't mind if I suggest that you introduce yourself on "New Members" as newbies often get missed in the middle of existing threads. ;)
Sorry to hear about your family problems and bereavements :hug: It might not be the best tiem to be trying to cope with meno symptoms too. :-\ Can I ask how old you are? HRT is good for protecting your heart and bones as well as controlling symptoms and the jury is out on whether it "just delays the inevitable." Mind you, if that's the case I'm planning to use it to delay it forever! ::)
Lots of info in the Green Menu and support from lots of great ladies so browse around and join in. And do check out the "Funnies." ;D
Bette x
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Hi Bette,
Thanks for the welcome :) Will introduce myself on the new members bit as you suggest.
I turned 50 in April but was showing symptoms for the last 4 years or so - resulting in having a full hysterectomy in jan 2009 after getting back to back periods.
I only took the patches from Jan to August 2009 - what with redundancy from work, my daughters wedding and my mum critically ill in hospital it all became too much to even remember to change the patches. Mum passed away 2 weeks after my daughters wedding in September and the rest is history. Only found my box of patches this week after clearing out a drawer in my bedroom. That's what made me think about starting them again.
Surprisingly my GP has never mentioned anything about me not asking for a repeat prescription! the other thing that annoyed me was they would only give me 1 month supply on each prescription - so it was getting costly too. Surely they could have given me three months at at a time? What did they think I was going to do? Stick them all over my body??? lol
I'm suffering badly from night sweats and itchy skin and haven't had a decent nights sleep in months as a result.
So glad I came on here - so many things to read - (will take me a while to get up speed on all the different subjects) but its reassuring to know I'm not alone.
Off to browse the green menu
Thank you for your support.
xxxx
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Hi Chicken - my HRT comes in one box which contains twelve patches - this is three months worth. Which type were you prescribed? Also, I think that GP's are aware that many women (myself included on one occasion) start an HRT but within a month give up due to the side effects and so the rest of the prescription is wasted. Either that or you have a particularly mean GP!
Taz x
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Hi Taz - think they were called Estradot - only one month supply in the box. Patches had to be changed twice a week. Have been back to the doctor this week and going for a blood test with a view to going back on them for a year. She said they don't like to prescribe it women over 50 years of age (turned 50 in April) but there may be an underlying cause to all my symptons other than menopause - maybe thyroid? Got a bigger problem taking my mind off all of that anyway - have Cellulitis on my foot! Had an insect bite 2 weeks ago that wouldn't heal - so itchy that I tore my foot to pieces during the night and then it swelled up huge - and have huge blisters all over it. They drew a line around my foot to see if it spreads and now on two lots of antibiotics! Funnily enough - not had a night sweat since all this started!!! lol
Chicken x
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She said they don't like to prescribe it women over 50 years of age - if she says that again, see a different gp! Mine says that "the clock doesn't start till 50" and then you can take it for 5 years without any concern. Mind you, she's happily prescibing it to patients in their 70s. So many of us on here are frustrated by the fact that gps can't seem to agree on this.
Hope that your foot is better soon. :o
Bette x
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I agree with Bette - 50 is when you start taking it not when you stop!! Hope the foot gets better - it is not something to trifle with so make sure you follow any instructions carefully and rest if you need to.
Taz x
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"She said they don't like to prescribe it women over 50 years of age"
that makes me so mad >:( over 50 is when you need the ****** estrogen!!!
I am not one to curse but honestly ::)
silverlady x
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I first had flushes two years and they weren't too bad, but I wasn't working at the time which took the pressure off. The worst thing back then were the mood swings although once I realised what was going on it helped a lot. Like many people, when they stopped I did think blimey what are people moaning about I'm ashamed to say :-[
Well that'll teach me won't it, they've come back with total vengeance and are getting worse by the day it seems. I wake up at least 5-6 times during the night and today I've had at least 20. I'm drenched every time and definately not looking forward to going back to work next week! I'm lucky enough to be able to have a fan on at night which reduces the drying off time. I also sleep on a towel and wear cotton t-shirts to bed.
Even though I hate them the worst bit for me are the chills that follow especially the one I have every morning where I literally just freeze, its truly awful, i'm someone who hates the cold anyway.
I'm only two days in to taking my HRT so I know it will be a while before they kick in and (hopefully) sort them out. At the mo I have a berocca every morning (Vit C drink) and also take EPO with Starflower oil, Zinc, Flaxseed oil caps & Vit B complex. I don't take them all the time and have stopped while I get into a routine with my HRT, also I wasn't sure if it was ok to take them at the same time.
The best thing about this is that I found this forum, which is a mine of information and the peeps supportive, informative, funny and very welcoming.
So a big :thankyou: to you all
xx
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I have been taking Starflower Oil for over a month now and I have to say that it has really helped with the night sweats and hot flushes. In fact so much so that one night when it was a bit cooler I actually had to put a blanket on the bottom of the bed. If you had told me that six weeks before I would have thought you were mad. I feel so much better now that at least I can sleep at night and know that I'm not glowing every so often during the day. I also take B vitamins and Chromium but it definitely is the Starflower oild which has made the difference. I'm not on any type of HRT and although I have mood swings I can cope at the moment. Thanks for the tips here.
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My flushes started in May aged 51, with maybe 4 or 5 a day and although I didn't have night flushes I had to have the electric fan on my at night (I live in the Middle East so night temps are not naturally cool)!
I purchased myself a fold out fan and just got on with it!
The flushes got worse as I felt as though I was sitting on heated chairs at times! Not easy when flying and demanding my husband change seats with me as mine was definately heated!
Just about when I'd had enough (2 weeks ago) and was wondering what I could take for them, they suddenly stopped a month after my 52nd birthday. I can tell you it's a real relief. I don't know if it's my lifestyle that helped, I'm vegetarian and exercise 4 times a week and jog twice a week. My periods also stopped 2 months ago. Feel I've got through menopause much easier than expected.
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Hi SushiFee - welcome to the forum.
I don't want to cast doubt on the fact that you have got through menopause but if you have only just stopped your periods then it is a bit early to celebrate. Some women find that their hot flushes stop when a period is due. You have only missed two periods and it is quite usual to stop for up to six or seven months before starting again. Let us know what happens - it will be wonderful if this really is the end of the menopause for you. My flushes started at around the age of 51 and I went 10 months without a period before the flushes stopped and then the periods started again. I am 57 now but am on HRT so I am not sure when my periods would have stopped totally. I was still having them at age 53 when I began HRT.
Have a good look around the site - there is loads of information on here.
Taz :welcomemm:
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Oh Dear! Im 46, started missing odd periods the last couple of years, then one in december, and nothing until June and nothing since. Not getting many headaches which is a real bonus for me having suffered from severe headaches for as long as i can remember....BUT the hot flushes, OMG, they are driving me crazy! I dont sleep, seem to sweat all night, I can feel the sweat on my face head and chest, and during the day seems to get flushes at least once an hour much to my families amusement 'Oh Mum, she's off on another one!'
I will go and order some starflower oil right now and hope they may help me.
I must also add to lots of other posts how great this forum is, and nothing seems to be a no go area, thank you ladies.
x
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The thing that's helped me most at night is covering myself with a sheet under the duvet and keeping the duvet no higher than waist height! That seems to keep me warm enough not to get the shivers, but cool enough that the hot flushes come and go without disturbing me too much.
I'm currently taking 2 sage capsules and a starflower capsule with my evening meal and I do think its helped a bit.
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I began with seriously bad hot flushes about nine years ago and they are still really affecting my life. I have never suffered badly from anxiety, but in the middle of a flush, I could run and hide at times. I feel very embarrassed because I can feel and see sweat dripping off my face and it runs down my legs. It is equally bad during the day and night - I have changed pillows several times and had to buy a new mattress. I cannot take HRT and have tried numerous alternativ remedies, but to no avail. I can honestly say that, at times, I would not have cared if I had died in my sleep. Talking of sleep, the flushes wake me regualrly during the night and I have an urge to dash to the toilet also.
I feel that the hot flushes have changed me beyond recognition - the lack of sleep and my appearance have led to me feeling less confident. I used to work at a senior level some miles away from where I live and used to have bags of stamina. I took early retirement as I felt that to continue could have ended in me leaving work in a coffin. that sounds dramatic, but it is how it felt sometimes.
Overall, they have now gone on for 11 years and I sincerely hope that they don't go on for another five years; it feels like part of my life has been stolen.
You know, I am not a miserable person or a moaner and what I write is how I genuinely feel or have felt. I still have a sense of humour fortunately, but am often so tired I just stay alone. The thought of a new relationship terrifies me as I can't imagine having the energy for a sexual relationship and the sweats well...................
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Kate, sorry to hear you've had the flushes so bad for so long and that you can't take HRT for them.
There are a couple of things which helped with mine.
One was taking fluoxetine (prozac). Within about 3 days of starting to take it, my flushes were less intense. (It wasn't prescribed for the flushes but the Dr thought I was depressed. However, helping with the flushes is apparently a known side effect.)
For me, 10mg was enough to help with the flushes, and there was no benefit from a bigger dose.
The other thing that helped a bit was soy.
(I used soy milk and yoghurt, but of course you can get supplements too.) It wasn't a dramatic improvement, but enough to be perceptible.
With the 2 put together, my hot flushes are now copable with. They were pretty bad, but not as bad as yours. Sometimes I felt like my head was exploding, and claustrophobic like I just had to get out, and sometimes had to lie down. Now that is v rare, mostly when I get them I just feel hot.
But there are also other prescription medications - I havent tried them but I think Dixarit is one. They're on this site in the green menu I think. So you need to see your Dr (again?) maybe. Also, is it absolutely definite you can't take HRT? Cos they reckon most women can, but if you have contraindications your GP would not be able to prescibe it but would need to refer you to a specialist menopause clinic - they even sort out HRT for women with breast cancer I think?
You are having a very hard time with this and you need to insist your doctor take it seriously!
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Hello Kate. :D
Oh I feel for you. I don't know if you've read my thread on Citalopram? I, too, cannot take HRT because I had a DVT the other year.
I did take Prozac once (20mg) and yes, it helped me with flushes too but could not stand the increased anxiety and insomnia that the drug caused...oh dear!
I din't know you could get it in a 10mg dose?
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As the temperature is rising, so are my hot flushes. I wore a nice cool cotton short sleeved blouse and linen trousers to work this morning - but still felt too hot. I was the only one in the office with a fan on and the others started to mock shiver! I love this weather normally, but could do without it at this time in my life - roll on the cool autumnal days I say!
Nel x
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Started taking black cohosh and after 7 days the number of hot flashes was halved and after 10 days they'd gone completely. That's been just over a month now without a single instance of a hot flash. Just the mood swings, crying and migraines to sort!!!!!!!!!!
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Hi 2catsnat - I just wondered whether your hot flushes stopped before your period arrived. Long standing members on here just knew I would have to ask that question ;D A lot of us have found that before a period arrives the hot flushes stop. It will be interesting to see if this is what happened to you and whether, now your period is here, the black cohosh still keeps your flushes at bay.
Sorry to read about your mood swings - I now what you mean about just wanting to be alone.
Taz x
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Kate , if you are still around , just wanted to say how much I empathise with you . I started with hot flushes/night sweats 10 yrs ago now and at times ,like you I have felt so desperate I really didn't care if I died . I feel as though these last years have been totally spoiled . Had to give up some important work I was doing as pouring with sweat every 40 mins was just not appropriate at all ! !
Have tried practically every "remedy" and to be honest they are a waste of money ! Cant take HRT but actually would rather not anyway... and before everyone jumps on me ...I know that for some its an incredible help.
I used this forum a lot some time ago and it was so so helpful. the reason I came on again now was really just to draw peoples attention to a low GI diet . I'm sure many of you will be aware of it but its not just about losing weight. I've been so puzzled by the biological mechanism of hot flushes and feel sure that there must be an answer out there .....but I must say for me personally I think there is some kind of link between the flushes and fluctuating blood sugar levels. Low GI is quite different in its approach and It does seem a bit strange but anyway there's loads of info on line and i've got to say it has made a big difference to me .
love sarah
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sarahbird I think there could be some connection, I have noticed that if I have too much sugar and refind carbs my pulse increases and I feel a pulse in my ear (have had it checked out by my doctor) my face flushes too sometimes. I always now only have something sweet after a meal containing protein and never eat anything sweet on its own.
I think there is a lot to be said about the GI diet and it really is common sense. I am glad that it has helped you.
silverlady x
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thanks silverlady,
just wanted to add though , in some ways the low GI diet is common sense ,in as much as you are encouraged to cut right down on carbs, but its surprising sometimes which foods are the best low carb ones .
Its not always that obvious and definately worth checking them out. I've got a little pocket sized book,and there's plenty of lists to be found on-line .
sarah
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Hi hot flushes been terrible all started 7 yrs ago.
After i had a bad back, went to see a chiropractor and after that all this started, burning all over started in my back then stomach face and neck in agony also bad headaches went to doc she said it wasn't menopause sounds like nerve endings but gave me hrt anyway to see if it helps but by that time i was in such a state as one doc was telling me one thing another didn't think they where working so gave anti-depresants and change hrt again but still the same i don't think i gave it time to work.
In the end doc sent me to clinic in hosp doc there said i could be like that and had the menira coil fitted and taking climavil tablets. Still didn't feel great and went to see doc again in hosp 6 mths later but this time it was a different doc she told me to come off hrt cos i said i did't any better so went with her.Off it foe 3 wks but omg how sorry i was all my burning came back, so the hrt must of been doing something so gone back on it hope it kicks in soon feel awful now i remember what it was like when it all started.
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can anyone tell me does hrt just keeps all your symtoms down even if you have been on it for years and then when you come off it you just go thought any way or does it ease everything.I know you get it back a bit when you come off it.
Thanks :-\
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Hi thanks for your reply. I have had a terrible time didn't know if I was going through the menopause or not cos at the time I had a bad back and went to see a chiropractor and after that is when i started getting all this burning in my back,stomach,neck,face and top of legs my doc is it was nerve endings but if it was my back how could it make my face burn.
Was like that for ages in terrible state she put me on anti-depressants couldn't stop crying cos so in pain she put me on hrt but I thought it wasn't working so she changed it in the end she sent me to see doc in hosp and he said you can have burning like I had.So he then gave me the menira coil in and gave me climaval tablet to take.
Anyway 6 mths later had to go back to hosp but seen a new doc and she told me to come off it cos I said I didn't feel any better but how wrong was I
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Sorry, just got to say i was off it for 3 wks and I was back to square 1 so gone back on it hope to god it doesn't take to long to get back in body so it was menopause.
thanks for listening sorry it was so long
coops
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:)thanks susan funny enough someone told me i had fibro and i have oa in neck and back thats y doc said it was nerves but she said it wasn't fibro some time i don't think they know whats wrong so say anything.
i have gone back on hrt but just on fire :angryfire: hope its not to long getting back in body :thankyou:
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I'm not coping! The hot flushes are dreadful and making life in general hard. R ::)eally difficult when you have an important role within a school and yet you have not had a good night sleep. I've tried Menolieve, Black Cohosh, Sage tablets, and now the doc has told me to get YAM tablets which I've ordered.....so watch this space!
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This may be a total coincidence - but my hot flushes have almost gone.
I "failed" a cholesterol test a few months ago with a reading of 6.9. I also had a high blood sugar reading.
As a result, I have changed my diet. I now have no refined sugar, only fruit, I also have de-caff tea and coffee. And I have upped my exercise.
As I said, it might be a coincidence, but it might not. I have also lost 10lbs in weight.
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Hi Twizzle
:welcomemm:
Have you considered HRT? It's been a life-saver for many. ;)
You might like to introduce yourself in "New Member" as newbies often get missed in the middle of existing threads and others will want to welcome you.
Bette x
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Hi
I havent had a night sweat (didnt get day ones) for about 6 weeks now.
I hadnt had a period since June, then last month & this month I had 'normal' period...the one this month was bang on 28days from the last, just like I used to be.
Do you think that the periods returning would have stopped the night sweats?
am soooooo confused with all this peri stuff.
Stumpy xx :)
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Do you think that the periods returning would have stopped the night sweats?
Yes! A lot of ladies have reported that happening and several post-meno ladies have said that they wish that their periods would return, as they were preferable to the symptoms they get now. :(
Bette x
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Thanks Bette
So I have them to look forward to again when periods decide to stop again...fabulous, not. >:(
Stumpy xx :)
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:) I am 49 and my flushes started at the end of August and each one was a sweat, i was having about 10 a day and the same through the night, i have also been having excrutiating headaches the last 18 months. I started "Menopace Original" 2 weeks ago and amazed by the reaction, the very first day i noticed a big difference and on the 10th day the flushes have stopped, i can also say i am feeling great, the headaches have also stopped an i feel full of energy. I bought these in Tesco for just under £3.00.
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Yes please introduce me, still trying to find my way through the site !
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Hi milesy
:welcomemm:
Just click on "Forum" in the menu on the left, scroll down to "New Members" and click to get to that section and then click on "New Topic" to start a thread to introduce yourself.
I say "just" but reading that back it doesn't sound as simple as I'd like! ::) ;D
Bette x
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Hi folks well - having registered with this site in 2009 I thought I'd let you know (touching all wood in sight) that the flushes have pretty much gone. I still have a small cranking-up-the-boiler one to wake me up at 6.30 most mornings - but no soakers. I wanted to share as I know it would have meant the world to me to know someone had come out the other side when things were particularly bad. Hang in there ladies xxxxxxxxx
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Hi, just wondered , does anyone suffer with the occasional cold flush in addition to the hot. [i hear you all say , I wish!] seriously though.
I occasionaly get a strange feeling in my head and then go very cold, whichin turn makes me panic and the rest is history. lol
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hi not been on forum for a while but been struggling with hot flushes, fed up of walking around in just a shirt with my body bright red and glowing and everyone else wrapped up in coats scarfs etc. makes me feel sick and dont even mention the mood swings, i just wondered how long the flushes last for, Dr said 6 months ha, what does he know, its already been 2 years, dont want to try hrt would like to just let it run its course but past the point now of it badly affecting my life, partners lovely but i wouldn t want to live with a moody devil like me. daughter bought me some menopace but bit weary of taking them because it says not to take if you have fibroids which i do. i too have painful joints but cant take anti inflamitrys cos got high blood pressure, o dear theres not much hope is there. sorry im going on a bit but things not good at the moment. any help would be great, thanks
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I am still fairly to all of this. I am not sure I am having hot flushes as such (although the doc did write it down when i described my symptoms).
I just describe it as my body thermostat being totally buggered. If I get cold I find it very difficult to get warm again. At night I am awful. Hubby is huddled under 2 layers of the duvet, I am on top of the duvet nice and warm. Even when he had -10 degrees! I also cannot stand it when a room is too hot. I really struggle.
Lx
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Rough going this week!
I've been off HRT for about three months now due to high blood pressure and breast problems. My GP said I'd probably gone through he worst of the withdrawal symptoms but this week has been really tough going.
I feel stiff and ache all over, I'm not sleeping at night because of the flushes so I feel exhausted, but now I'm getting freezing chills too! It feels as though I've got a block of ice in my stomach but the next minute I'm drenched with sweat. Out of curiosity I took my temperature and it's been a little low for two or three days. I've been headachey and emotional this week too. It's driving me nuts!
It's hard to tell which are normal symptoms or if there's another medical problem. I hate to waste the doctors time - how often do you ladies see your GP about your symptoms?
Have tried Menopace and also a Ladycare magnet which hasn't done a thing so far - apart from ping off and shoot under the door in a public toilet which was funny/embarassing ;D
I'm supposed to be going on a romantic anniversary weekend with my hubby this weekend but I really don't feel like going. Going to check out the humour section now and try and cheer myself up!
Hope you girls are having a better week!
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My GP said I'd probably gone through he worst of the withdrawal symptoms
I don't quite understand what he means by that. :-\ I would have thought that it's once the HRT is out of your system that any meno symptoms it was masking will come to the fore. ???
Bette x
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Hi
Has anyone tried Chiilow Pillow?
The last few weeks within mins of getting into bed my feet & legs are on fire, even getting them out of the quilt doesnt help.
Thinking of getting a Chillow to put my feet on, waking every hr or so at the moment, not good. :'(
Thanks
Stumpy xx
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Hi Stumpy
Did you buy a Chillow pillow after all? I've been thinking about getting one too as trying to sleep at night is miserable. Clammy bed linen - yeuk! I think I've read somewhere else on this forum that Chillows don't stay cold for long enough?
Hope you're having a better week
Astolat
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I've been taking the Starflower Oil regularly and must say it has had a very positive effect on the hot flushes. I still get some but they are quite mild. Face flushes occasionally but as I also suffer from rosacea I'm not sure whether it is that causing the redness. I'm also happy to say that the really hot night flushes have gone. Hopefully things will stay this way - I'm now 56.
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I love my chillow - it doesn't stay icy all night, but usually enough for you to get to sleep with. I actually have two so I can move from one to another in the small hours! What a strange way to live ...
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I'm so glad I've come back on here. I've been on HRT for about 3 yrs now and all was good until my migraines started getting worse. The GP said I should stop the HRT, Well she said you might as well go through your menopause now, than wait. I'm 45, I started my menpause at about 39!!! This time the hot flushes are different I get the hot/chill flushes and I hate them and I hate menopausing, I am having acupuncture at the moment last time it worked straight away, this time it doesnt seem to have worked yet at all. I also need my emotions balancing, I am anxious/tearful/angry/happy/sad, not all at once but changes can be quick, any ideas ladies?xxxxx
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Hi Hazymaiden
Welcome back!
Stupid woman! :beat:
As Mrs P says, at your age there are many benefits from HRT apart from relieving the horrible symptoms. Which HRT were you on before? Patches or gel are meant to be preferable when migraines are an issue and some ladies have found that using a different prog. helps.
Bette x
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I was on Femoston 2mg before and yes, it suited me. I was taken off of the pill before when my migraines started to get worse and I was ok until I started to menopause at 39/40. I had a migraine about 6 weeks ago and between that one and the next 2 weeks later I had a thumping headache all the time. I wonder if I went back and went onto the 1mg tabs again, She did say that migraines were due to oestrogen building up. my brain is mush at the moment which doesn't help at all as I have started the 3rd part of my degree, I can't even form a sentence or think of words when I need them. Do I get on with it or go back, she says I need to have an HRT that makes me bleed as I am so young. My Nan menopaused at my age and I don't want to be like her, she was so osteoparitic, she was buried in a childs coffin. My GP says that evidence now shows that HRT doesn't protect your heart?? :-\
(just discovered that it affects my typing too ;))
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Hazymaiden I am sure that estrogen does not build up in the brain, it can have an effect on the blood vessels though, it had a widening effect.There is a theory that migraines and headaches can be caused by fluctuating estrogen levels which effects the blood vessels, and I wonder if you might do better on patches.
Your doctor is a little out of date by saying that HRT does not protect the heart and if you read this it will explain current thinking
http://www.2womenshealth.com/27-HRT-Risks-and-Benefits/27-04-Hormone-Replacement-Therapy-HRT.htm
http://www.thebms.org.uk/newsitem.php?newsid=51
As there is osteosporosis in your family (this effects women even more the heart desease) I think you should go back to your doctor and discuss this.
silverlady x
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Interesting link from the British Menopause Society - thanks for posting this silverlady I hadn't heard of them. Looks like there is some interesting info on there...
Hurdity x :)
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It is under the links on this site Hurdity - it is worth browsing through them - under "links" at the top of the page.
http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/links.php
Taz x
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Thanks Taz I hadn't seen that either - I seem to have only ever looked at the menu on the left!
Lots more reading for me then....
Hurdity x :)
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I think I'll try Starflower Oil then :)
I've heard of it but can't say I've seen any in the shops....well,you tend not to if you're not looking of course! ::)
I'll try Holland and Barratts first.Do you put drops on your tongue like Rescue Remedy? What does it taste like?
xx
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It comes in capsules like Evening Primrose Oil, Jillymoo. You can get it in Boots, supermarkets etc.
Bette x
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Thanks Bette :)
I have just been reading about it online and I'm not sure I should try it though :(
It mentions that sometimes it has an effect on bleeding in the body (it explained how it might possibly alter platelets/vessels or something) and right away I was put off because I had a haemhorrage stroke in 2010 :-\
I could check with my GP,but perhaps I'll just soldier on as I am.Yesterday seemed like one long flush ( a bit like how contractions come very close as labour progresses!) but today I've been fine so. . . .
Thanks for the help though :)
xx
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I've just been reading the article in today's Daily Mail. It says counselling is the way to cope with flushes - after the counselling, your attitude to flushes will be more relaxed, so you will not take so much notice, then they will seem to diminish.
The Mail quoted an article in the journal Menopause
I have not read the journal, but it sounds interesting?
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Sorry but that is ROT! It might help some ladies but being relaxed about meno symptoms from hell does not make them easier to cope with if they're really bad. I had some counselling during my "peri meltdown" as I wanted to see if it would help with my anxiety, weepiness, low moods, sleeplessness etc. etc. It was good in that she helped me to be "kinder" to myself about the fact that I was ill but she then said that she was sure that I needed some kind of medical intervention. So the best thing she actually did for me was to convince me that I had to go to the gp and try HRT!
Sorry, I don't want to seem negative and I'm sure, as I said, that all these things help some ladies. But it worries me that this kind of article might give ladies the idea that it's all their fault, that they should be able to cope and that the only problem is their attitude and approach.
Bette x
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Cognitive behavioural treatment for women who have menopausal symptoms after breast cancer treatment (MENOS 1): a randomised controlled trial
http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(11)70364-3/abstract
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - Effective In Treating Menopause Symptoms
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/241727.php
Cognitive behavioural therapy helps menopause symptoms, study finds
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2012/feb/15/cognitive-behaviour-therapy-menopause-symptoms
The doctors who think conquering hot flushes may be all in the mind
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2103946/The-doctors-think-conquering-hot-flushes-mind.html
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:bang: :bang: :bang: Okay I will try to remain calm as I respond to this post but I am pre-menstrual so cant promise! As a counsellor I am soooo fed up with being bombarded everywhere i go that CBT is the cure-all for every human condition out there. I have clients who have come to me saying that they have heard of CBT and would this help them? I am not a qualified CBT therapist by any means but I have over ten years experience of developing and faciitating CBT groups in the mental health project that i worked in so I can usually offer clients lots of what I know in terms of techniques. However what helps and what helps people in groups is knowing that they are not alone and that what they are experiencing is ok - hope, reassurance and encouragement is usually what most people respond to. CBT is great for certain conditions and certain types of people, however it requires a great amount of work - mostly in the form of keeping diaries, setting goals, catching your thoughts, recording your thoughts and then challenging your thoughts. There is also a requirement for people look at their behaviour in CBT, record it and also to challenge it but setting yourself small goals. This work requires a lot of energy and a lot of people by the time they get to asking for help are burnt out and at the end of their tether and do not have the energy to put into CBT. I am sick of people being told that 'if only they could change their thinking' they would feel so much better - in some ways i see the truth in that but at certain times in a month that almost feels impossible to do - we women carry enough guilt that we don't need to be thinking that this is our fault either - grrrr!!!
I was surprised to see that most of the studies that Emma put up were carried out by women - i wonder if they will use CBT when they are going through the menopause? Mind you it would have been worse if the study had been carried out by men. I also noticed that the studies I think (and I only scanned them) were carried out over a 9 week period - most women noted an improvement in their symptoms - well I am sorry but if you had asked me last week how I was I would have noted an improvement in my symptoms however this week I am back to being a loon again. In my opinion 9 weeks is not long enough to assess anyone's recovery!
Sorry rant over - I could go on but wont - I need to get ready to see a client at 5 pm. What i think helps most people is information. HRT, exercise, diet, rest, acceptance, challenging, good friends, small steps, being kind to yourself, betablockers, AD's, counselling, CBT either one to one or group form - I don't think any one thing should be pushed as the bee all and end all for coping with the menopause! xxx
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Mental attitude does affect how we cope with things, but as for controlling something that has its root in the hypothalamus, well the jury's still out on that one in my opinion.
Exactly, Mrs P. And how well you manage to cope with symptoms can depend on how severe they are to start with. I'd love to know how bad the hot flushes of the ladies in the trial actually were. I have a friend whose flushes really are just that - she just gets a bit hot and red-faced. When you read on here about what some ladies go through, it's a completely different ball game. :o
Bette x
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can anyone tell me does hrt just keeps all your symtoms down even if you have been on it for years and then when you come off it you just go thought any way or does it ease everything.I know you get it back a bit when you come off it.
Thanks :-\
I was on HRT for 8 years and since coming off it I am suffering so badly with hot sweats that I feel like I am going to pass out. Hot sweats for around 3 minutes almost every hour followed by feeling really cold. Not pleasant. I wish I had never gone on HRT.
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I doubt if being on HRT has made your present flushes worse, denvon. :-\ Sorry to hear that you're having such a rough time now. :hug:
Bette x
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Susan, I wholeheartedly agree. The menopause symptoms are caused by the alteration in hormones. Many women suffer very badly with physical and mental symptoms which they did not encounter in earlier years. The sweating and the associated symptoms of eg panic, nausea, claustrophobia that accompany them are caused by the brains response to the alteration in hormone levels. The symptoms are very real and trying to talk yourself through them or relax into them can be well nigh impossible. Articles in The Mail can sometimes make me really angry.
Meg
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Hi
I read this article and the only way I could see it could help is in knowing that when weird things happen its because of the lack of oestrogen and not to panic even more! I've had a lot of fluttering recently and the last couple of days tingling around my lips but knowing that it's down to waiting for the HRT to kick in again means I'm not panicking because I know what's causing it!
However, like with most of these articles is the responses and comments - some people are just so horrible and evidently have no idea what the blasted things are like! Case of I'm alright so stop whinging and get on with it! one woman who described herself as early retired and living in Spain was like this, well lucky you to be so fortunate to be retired and not to have had the dreaded flushes!! Many ladies are having to work, look after kids, parents etc on no sleep.
If it was just a hot flush it wouldn't be so bad but we know that sometimes they are accompanied by feeling queasy, the palps etc so I bet most people don't know about all that other stuff that comes with them!
Maybe if we all had the luxury of lying around all day meditating (under a fan lol!) it might help with them but who's able to do that? :)
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mrs p you kind of hit the nail in the head, the more busy and stressed we are the worse the flushes get? I know when mine were behaving themselves it was either getting stressy or doing something heavy physically would cause the occasional one.
Soooo, maybe are they worse for our generation as probably the majority are still working and raising families as women leave it later to start families? I think our generation maybe have so much more to cope with and then some are having to look after parents as well. We had hoped when we moved to Oz to start to take it easy but thanks to the cost of living being so horrendous here and being stuffed up by a weakening pound exchange rate we are now working harder and longer hours than we did in the UK!
Im lucky in that I work for myself at home so if I get a bad night at least I don't have to be all perky in the office the next morning, however, the main part of the job is long hours and on feet all day with no chance of resting so I dread having a bad night before on of those work days.
Well I had better get to bed, at the moment I dread going because I'm sleeping so bad at the moment. I was sleeping beautifully before the doc pulled me off the hrt, now that's turned into a vicious circle!!!
Just started the nightly flushes, so here we go again! So over it as they say!!!!
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Hi Susan
I did sleep better last night - yay! Only had the one major stirring, hot and needing the loo as usual but then slept in...wish I could bounce out of bed in the mornings, but I couldn't do that when I was younger so guess I'm not going to start now!
Doc pulled me off the hrt when the post meno period appeared. I had hoped that things had settled down naturally as I was down to half a patch but as Bette had warned me having had the oestrogen surge which caused the period then probably the stress of all the investigations wiped out any excess oestrogen and after 3 weeks the symptoms had kicked in big time. So, I tried half a patch for a week which had no effect so back to full patches until I can get on an even keel again and then I'll try cutting them down again. It's so annoying as I had been feeling really good for a few months and apart from the pms before the period I was feeling really, really good that week! Oestrogen is a miracle, should be bottled and sold .... ha ha!
I will have been on it 2 years in Oct so I'm hoping I can continue if I've got back down to the lowest dose possible to keep me ticking over. My main concern is that because I'm only just turning 50 I don't want the lack of oestrogen to cause other health issues....plus I don't want to get old too quickly lol! I'm fortunate in that I don't look my age (or so people say) so I'd like to keep it that way! If I can keep on it for the next few years then hopefully I'll get some other businesses off the ground which don't have such physical or long hours!
Anyway, to cheer ourselves up my dear old friend in the UK were discussing the meno the other night and she had been watching Bondi Rescue and commenting about all the hunks, I said Bondi was usually wall to wall surfer dudes but at our age we look but they don't look back....we laughed!!
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I have just found this forum and i just didn't realise so many women were suffering like me with hot flushes.
When i first started to have the flushes i went to see my GP. She did a blood test and said that i was having a Sudden Onset Menopause, meaning there was no easing into it. This was the reason i went from completely normal one day to thinking i was really severly ill. I cant take HRT because of breast cancer in my immediate family. I take Menopace night, Soy isoflavines, Primrose oil, Flaxeed oil. Finally i gave in went back to another GP and he gave me a low dose Blood pressure tablet. This worked slightly in the daytime or maybe i imagined it 20 flushes instead of 25. So i went back and he has referred me to a Menopause Clinic. I haven't been yet and was wondering if anyone has experience of being to one. I am going to order some Starflower Oil after reading this forum.
I have a fan in every room i think i am going to blow away :-\ .
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Hi Janie
:welcomemm:
Hopefully the meno clinic will be able to help you; many of our ladies have found them to be great. ;) When is your appointment?
Meantime, you might find some other ideas in the "Alternative Therapies" and "Alternative Techniques" section of the menu on the left.
Bette x
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Hi SushiFee - welcome to the forum.
I don't want to cast doubt on the fact that you have got through menopause but if you have only just stopped your periods then it is a bit early to celebrate. Some women find that their hot flushes stop when a period is due. You have only missed two periods and it is quite usual to stop for up to six or seven months before starting again. Let us know what happens - it will be wonderful if this really is the end of the menopause for you.
Have a good look around the site - there is loads of information on here.
Taz :welcomemm:
You were right! My periods started again 3 months later and I'm still having them as regular as they always were (28days). However, I'm not getting any other symptons but at 52 (53 in July) I want the periods to finish! I don't take any supplements and feel as fit and healthy although my bones ache a bit more after exercise than they used to, but that's about all.
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Thanks for letting us know how you are getting on! Don't wish your periods away - it is these that are keeping more symptoms at bay! Although they can be a nuisance they do keep you "young".
Taz x
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You were right! My periods started again 3 months later and I'm still having them as regular as they always were (28days). However, I'm not getting any other symptons but at 52 (53 in July) I want the periods to finish! I don't take any supplements and feel as fit and healthy although my bones ache a bit more after exercise than they used to, but that's about all.
Oh geez - I agree with Taz. Please don't wish for your periods to end. Hope and pray that your periods last until the day you die, because once your periods stop that could be the start of a lot of problems.
I used to naively wish for my periods to end. They were never a problem to me, just a minor annoyance, but in June 2010 they did stop, and three months later all my problems started. To this day I am still struggling from one treatment to the next trying to find the right one. So every time your period arrives have a little private celebration. Welcome your periods for as long as you can.
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Could anyone please help me? I am having serious Hot flushes, despite seeing a Professor at a Monopause clinic @ Guys Hospital, in actual fact they are getting worse, nothing helps, I am on HRT, venlafexine, I avoid all the other things alcohol, caffiene etc, NOTHING works, I cannot do any exercise, not even a 5 minute wlak without being absolutely drenched in sweat! it is making me utterly miserable as I love walking, and I am constantly drenched in sweat. I have just b een tested for phoechromocytoma, which was negative, I am at my whits end, surely I don't have to put up with this for the rest of my life???? Please HELP
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:D
Hi
this is my first time posting here. I have been suffering unbearable night sweats and frequent hot flushes during the day. I have tried 2 types of HRT.....Elleste Duet and Prempak C, both had terrible sideeffects and I could only tolerate them for 2 months but...the hot sweats went. In the end the side effects were unbearable and i stopped.
I have now been taking Tridestra for 3 days.......
Hot flushes gone and no side effects ...yet. Fingers crossed this is the one for me. I will keep you posted.
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Great to hear some good news Archie1 :welcomemm:
If you would like to introduce yourself under the New Members thread you will probably get more replies. Sometimes new members can get missed on existing threads.
You will find lots of support and friendship on here so have a good browse around and join in wherever you like!
Taz x
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Does anyone feel really nauseous with a headache and feel faint when they have hot flushes ?
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Hi Mrs P
Not much fun this flushing lark. I've got a can of Magicool by my bed. It does help a bit. Hate going from really hot to horrible chills and not getting enough sleep.
Hopefully will improve soon.
Cheers
Anne B
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We have to believe there is an end to it Mrs P or we would loose our marbles otherwise. The sooner the better though. Oh to feel human again!
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Does anyone feel really nauseous with a headache and feel faint when they have hot flushes ?
Thats just how I feel, and they seem to come one on top of the other, no sooner do I think to myself that I'm glad that hot flush is over and another one starts. At times I feel like I'm going to faint and thats frightening to be honest.
pea
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Oh Pea, isn't it horrible. I don't wish this on anybody but hearing that you experience the same at least makes me realise I'm not going off my head. Hoping that after I see this meno specialist on Friday that he agrees I need more oestrogen and can look forward to being flush free. Live in hope!
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Oh Pea, isn't it horrible. I don't wish this on anybody but hearing that you experience the same at least makes me realise I'm not going off my head. Hoping that after I see this meno specialist on Friday that he agrees I need more oestrogen and can look forward to being flush free. Live in hope!
When I tried explaining things to the GP and he was taking no notice I really thought I was loosing my marbles! This is probabaly going to sound wrong, like you I wouldnt wish this on anyone, but at least I now know its not just me.
Let me know how it goes on Friday :)
pea
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Will do Pea. Have a good evening.
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Hi my first time on here... I took HRT (hormonin) for about 8 years after I had hysterectomy at the young age of 32, I managed very well for about 10 years, but felt really unwell and depressed when I hit 42 years and had problems with a stress incontinence. Doc said my hormone levels were way down and we decided on the HRT and it may help with the incontinence. I was fine with it had no side effects. But in my infinite wisdom decided to stop taking it when I hit 54 as I had been on it a long time and the HRT nurse said I ought to think about not taking it. My God what a mistake I have suffered with night sweats and constant hot flushing aching muscles especially before hot flush comes on, nausea, weight gain, no libido, sleepless nights, I could go on... I have tried sage, serenity cream, starflower and evening primrose (which did help slightly) black cosh nothing really helped. So went back to docs and he agreed in the end I could try the HRT again. Been taking it for a week now, slight headache for a few days, but seems ok now, and I have slept all night for the last 3 nights. Flushes down to about 2 or 3 per day, so fingers crossed it's starting to work. Sorry to go on !!
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Hi Scathy
:welcomemm:
Although trying without HRT for a while doesn't sound like a bad idea, I'm sure that you're right to go back on it. Some ladies do seem to find that they're ok without it later on into meno and I'll probably try weaning off it at some stage (I'm 52 and started it at 49) but if I don't feel good without it, I'll be back on it like a shot. My gp agrees with that and has patients on it in their 70s. :)
Hope that things continue to improve for you.
You might like to introduce yourself on "New Members" as Newbies sometimes get missed in the middle of existing threads and others will want to welcome you. ;)
Bette x
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Hi my first time on here... I took HRT (hormonin) for about 8 years after I had hysterectomy at the young age of 32, I managed very well for about 10 years, but felt really unwell and depressed when I hit 42 years and had problems with a stress incontinence. Doc said my hormone levels were way down and we decided on the HRT and it may help with the incontinence. I was fine with it had no side effects. But in my infinite wisdom decided to stop taking it when I hit 54 as I had been on it a long time and the HRT nurse said I ought to think about not taking it. My God what a mistake I have suffered with night sweats and constant hot flushing aching muscles especially before hot flush comes on, nausea, weight gain, no libido, sleepless nights, I could go on... I have tried sage, serenity cream, starflower and evening primrose (which did help slightly) black cosh nothing really helped. So went back to docs and he agreed in the end I could try the HRT again. Been taking it for a week now, slight headache for a few days, but seems ok now, and I have slept all night for the last 3 nights. Flushes down to about 2 or 3 per day, so fingers crossed it's starting to work. Sorry to go on !!
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Hi thanks for the welcome, will introduce on the newbie section.
Have gone back on to the Hormonin, as I had no trouble with that last time. Still feeling ok, only 1 tiny flush today and slept like a log last night. Fab, looks like I may be getting my life back.
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I've just found this site and the forum - thank goodness. I believe I've just started the menopause as I've experienced the night sweats for the last 10 days with just one or two days of daytime hot flushes. Waking four or five times a night is not doing me any good at all - I look as if I haven't slept for months. My husband won't sleep with the window open - "its winter for goodness sake, who has the window open in the middle of winter? Are you mad?" Tonight I'm sleeping in the spare room with the window WIDE open...
I saw the post re Starflower Oil and will definitely try it. I've always thought I would try to get thru the menopause as naturally as possible without resorting to pills, etc but after the last 10 days, I shall be going to the doctor tomorrow to see what options there are. The very thought that this could last for 2, 5 or 15 years is too hard to believe. And my husband agrees!
Hi AllyMac I too have just started with night sweats and hot flushes during the day. I am really tired from the disturbed sleep and want to try to manage before trying HRT, but I am having a lot of flushes at work which is a bit bothersome. Like you, I am dreading having symptoms for even 2 years never mind 5 or 15! Someone posted about star oil, think I will try it. I am nearly 50 and until last month was still having periods, but think I am going to miss this one as it's a week late now. I have missed one every 6 months or so for the past 2 years, but never missed more than one. Keep posting and we can compare how we are getting on.
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Hi Flushtered and welcome from me. I think you should introduce yourself, you will be made very welcome, think you may have been missed here.
Eddie. xx
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I am not coping. which is why i joined this site today, I am having as many as five a hour, my GP wont give me HRT. but yesterday at work I almost passed out, went dizzy, and clammy, there is no air in our office and it was very close, I came home and proceeded to "flash" all day, keep waking up, and feel very tearful, and anxious, when i saw my Gp he just upped my ant-depressant dose. but now I feel worse, i have no energy, and feel like I am going Mad, any advise
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Hi Melsbabes
Welcome to the forum :welcomemm:
Has your GP given you a good reason why you can't have HRT? If not I would change doctors!
Hrt can be very effective in relieving flushes. I think many GPs don't understand how debilitating meno symptoms can be for some of us >:(
Could you see a different GP within the practice? I know where I go they all have different views on HRT, luckily I'm with one who is happy to prescribe me local oestrogen (ovestin cream) for as long as I want it.
Make an appointment asap and don't be fobbed off.
Have a browse through the menu to the left of the screen regarding HRT. If you have some knowledge of it that will help you plead your case.
Good luck, let us know how you get on.
Catweazle x
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Hi Melsbabes
:welcomemm:
Good advice from the others - try a different gp or ask for a referral to a meno clinic.
Bette x
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Thank you, have now got HRT but he was very reluctant, to give it me, suggested I would get Cancer and wouldnt come off it when he said, still feel bad and cant find a well women clinic near me, so made appointment to see younger doctor, but he was also reluctant to give me HRT. is it a cost thing do you think?
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I think it's more that some gps aren't up-to-date with the latest research, melsbabes. :( The cancer risk theory has now been debunked but often gps' opinions seemed to depend on what the thinking was when they trained. My gp said that the older and younger gps are often more anti-HRT, it's the ones in the middle who are keener. Go figure!
Bette x
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prempak -c
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My hot flushes have become milder in the past year and my low dose of oestrogen has certainly helped, but they used to make me feel very faint and ill. They are ridiculous things and serve no purpose that I can see. Mine were/are worse if I drink coffee (which I love) or alcohol (which I also love) or eat curry (which I love too). I don't think I coped with them all that well as they wound me up and make me even hotter.
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I didn't find that any food or alcohol actually made them worse. They settled into a pattern of every twenty minutes, night and day, no matter what I ate or drank. They were really debilitating and made me feel dreadful. I had to take spare clothes into work as I dripped from the end of my nose to my toes. Not nice and not something I want to return to when I hit 60 in fifteen months time and am supposed to be coming off HRT. When I could retire at 60 then this may not have been such a problem but I have to work to 65 which changes things!
Taz x
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Taz2. My neighbour is in her 70s and still taking HRT.
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It depends on your GP's views on it. My GP is ok with me still taking it but the menopause clinic likes their ladies off by the time they are 60. They do a slow withdrawal over 18 months but I had to give up the half patches and go back on full ones, courtesy of my GP. I have been referred back to the GP now so hopefully I will be able to continue.
Taz x
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Hope so Taz. No point in being miserable. Here's hoping . Xxx
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Thanks Anne!!
Taz x
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Hi Ladies
Need some advice.
I had hot flushes and night sweats about 3/4 years ago but they stopped and i thought that would be that. Yes, you guessed it they're back!!!!
Today I've had about 5, so far they're tolerable. Is it normal to get hot flushes and stop and then start again.
Thanks
mac
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Are you still having periods, mac?
Bette x
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Hi Bette
Yes the last one was 3-4 months late and lasted about 12 days which is very unusual for me.
xxx
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Some ladies find that their flushes go when a period is approaching and then return afterwards. It could be that as you get further into meno, your flushes will increase as your periods decrease.
Bette x
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Thanks Bette :foryou:
Just as you think you deal with one symptom up it pops again with a few more added :(
Macxx
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8) Well, I was suffering hot flushes badly, then my doctor put me on hrt but unfortunately this aggravated the endometriosis that I had been suffering with for many years.. although it did stop the flushes! Then my doctor took me off the hrt and the flushes were horrendous.. between 2 and 5 per hour every hour and sometimes 6 or more at night.. I have now been prescribed Clonidine Hydrochloride tablets and I have been on them for 12 days with no effect whatsoever.. I was wondering if anyone else has been prescribed the same treatment and if it has had any good effects? Thanks for any input :)
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I have constant flushing followed by chills. My legs and feet are burning hot then instantly have waves of chills. Don't have a lot of sweating but face and neck clammy and feel nauseous and dizzy.
I'm on HRT but obviously not quite got it right yet!
This is very draining and just wondered if any ladies have experienced flushing like this.
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Mac, yes, mine went away for several weeks, then came back but were milder than they were. They still come and go and i wondered if they were winding down especially as i don't drip with sweat as i used to. Still feel horrid and wake me up sometimes but on the whole better than this time last year. :)
Anne B, no, sorry, it doesn't sound right does it? What does your GP say?
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My GP has no idea why I'm like this.
I have tried several different HRTs at different doses and nothing has helped so far.
I have been to a meno specialist and he is mystified as well.
Trust me to be awkward!
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Oh dear, how horrible for you. I don't know what to say :(
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I must just be a special case!
I have actually wondered if maybe I'm on too high a dose of oestrogen. Have already cut it back a bit but maybe need to go lower.
It's difficult to know because symptoms of too high and too low are often the same.
Oh well I'll just have to soldier on.
X
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Flushes now for nearly two years along with night sweats, reaching the end of my tether- really did not want to go on hrt but am quite desperate...
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Spadger. Get yourself a bit of HRT and make your life comfortable again. 2 years is a long time to suffer.
Xx
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Hi, i am new to this forum but came across it while searching for information on the Menopause. I am suffering from regular hot flushes day and night which are affecting my quality of life. I am also having the aching joints, hips, and back pain. My stomach is bloated and at times i seem to have severe period pain but without the bleeding.
I have tried Menopace and a high dose of primrose oil but neither has helped. I went to the GP who put me on Elleste Duet 1mg but after 3 weeks felt and looked worse than ever. I had a constant headache and stopped taking it.
I have now started on FemSeven, 3 days ago, but seem unable to keep the patch in situ for one week. the patch remains on for no longer than a day. Has anyone else had this problem and can you get the same patch to be changed daily?
cheers Polly
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I actually cannot believe that I had a night sweat last night that lasted for two and a half hours!! Its getting really ridiculous and am lucky to get 2- 4 hours interrupted sleep a night.. :( I have been told to up my dose of clonodine hydrochloride.. but am on 300 micrograms per day already and it is doing nothing so far.. Has anyone else out there been prescribed this drug for hot flushes and if so would love to know how they are getting on with it.. thanks :)
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Hi Pollypocket and welcome to the forum. You may like to introduce yourself under New Members aa members will want to welcome you and your post might get lost in the middle of this thread.
I am on Femseven and the failure to stick has been a lasting problem with many women. It is worth following the manufacturers instructions to the letter and I have found that if you try to press the patch firmly with the palm of your hand for at least one minute this will help the adhesive to stick. I think that one member even holds her hairdryer, set to warm, over hers! Which part of your body are you applying the patch to?
As with all HRT's it is worth persevering for at least three months to find out if it suits you or not. The Femseven got rid of my sweats within 48 hours which was wonderful. I hope you have success with these!
Taz x
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Hi this is my first post with the forum, came across it by accident when looking for help with my hot flushes. I have tried hrt tablets, gel and patches but even though they stopped the flushes, they made me feel so ill. The tablets and gel gave me palpitations and severe headaches and the patches have given me terrible stomach pains and bleeding which I havent had for years because I have a mirena coil. I am pleading with someone who can give me some advice of what might help me. I feel dreadful, have spent a fortune on natual remedies, evening primrose, menopace, black chosh, vitamins etc, but nothing worked. Has anyone got anything else they can recommend that I try? I notice that someone mentions starflower capsules? Does anyone else have any experience of taking them? Please please can someone help me feel half normal again :(
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Hello traceyjane and welcome to the forum. As Taz said to pollypocket it might be a good idea to repeat your request and introduction in the New Members section as then your post will be noticed and you will get more replies. It could be missed in the middle of this general thread.
Meanwhile the only thing for me that stops a HF in its tracks is a good burst of Magicool Spray :) I have not found anything that has stopped them from happening but i do not use any HRT so far.
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I'm one of the 10% who still have hot flushes years after the menopause started. I'm 62 and started the menopause 10 years ago but still suffer from frequent hot flushes, particularly at night. it's not unusual for me to have 4 or 5 flushes a night which disrupt my sleep and have lead to insomnia. I've seen my GP who was very sympathetic and am presently taking an anti-histamine to help me sleep. She did suggest that an anti-depressant could help with the hot flushes as well as the anxiety I suffer from but I'm a bit reluctant to go down that path as I'm not depressed, just fed-up with the flushes!
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Flushes are evil, i am sure they plot secretly to be as disruptive as possible especially at night. I do not see the point of them and i wish they would just clear off >:(
hello roseB,sorry to hear that you are being plagued also, welcome to the forum. If you introduce yourself in the new members bit you will get a lot more replies then :)
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Hi roseB :welcomemm:
Anti-depressants such as prozac have been found to be beneficial in some women to get rid of hot flushes. The dose used is lower than that which would be needed for depression. A friend of mine has also had success with Dixarit as she didn't want to try HRT http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/brain-and-nervous-system/medicines/dixarit.html
Taz x
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clonodine hydrochloride made no difference to me, waste of money.
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My flushes became very mild and i thought i was getting over it. Now thay have returned badly and last night it was cold but i was still awake and sweating under a summer duvet i am so disappointed. :( I got up to go to the toilet and my pyjamas were wet (but not because i needed the toilet) :o
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Thanks very much for that Taz and Elainejh I think I may try the antidepressants as the anxiety does get me down and I know it will only get worse as Christmas approaches.
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Sorry, this thread is HUGE, showing how much of a problem this is, so I haven't read right through it (apologies). I read a while ago that Hot Flushes can be provoked by carby, sugary foods and I think this could be right. Maybe people should be observant as to what they were eating or drinking just prior to a hot flush. If the 'cure' could be as simple as tweaking the diet, it wold be great. I hope this helps :)
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Doesn't explain why they come on in the middle of the night though!
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Did you dream of a Muffin???? ::)
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No. I don't like muffins, and I find that comment rather flippant.
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Margarett, my original post was a genuine suggestion of a possible cause of hot flushes. There is information available on the net, here is one quote
"Refined Sugar
Consuming too much sugar or simple carbohydrates can trigger hot flashes. When you ingest sugar, there is a spike in blood sugar which then elevates the body's temperature. In addition, sugar has a vasoconstriction effect increasing the heart rate. This increase in body temperature and heart rate can trigger hot flashes. According to Rose Paisley, N.D., a naturopath at Nature Cures Clinic in Portland, Oregon, you should avoid processed products containing refined sugar and high fructose corn syrup. Natural sources of sugar like maple syrup, honey and pure cane sugar are better choices in small amounts, but avoid "food in a box" containing refined sugar.
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/78070-foods-produce-hot-flashes/#ixzz2CEktqkQ9"
I am sorry I obviously misread the spirit of your original response and answered in what I thought was similar style. I will think twice about any answers to you in future. Meanwhile, I sincerely hope my original post is of a help to others.
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Hi Bibby :)
Thank you for posting that link. :great:
I agree sugar can provoke flushes, well it does in my case anyway! I am a jelly baby addict and know there'll be a price to pay if I over indulge. Chocolate is even worse but that's probably because it contains caffeine as well. I think diet plays a big part in flushes, identifying things that set them off can be tricky but once you've worked it out you can reduce your suffering.
I wonder if a dip in blood sugar during the night could trigger a flush? If your liver then releases some of it's stores of glycogen..... Just a thought!
I always sleep better if I'm not hungry when I go to bed. A biscuit half an hour before retiring usually does the trick.
I also avoid caffeine in drinks and don't touch alcohol any more.
Catweazle x
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Hi Catweazle7, yes, I have definitely noticed a connection between flushes and carby foods. Your point about a crash is very interesting. I don't know enough about the subject, but it sounds plausible. My grandmother was plagued by hot flushes, thankfully I am not. But she was an alcohol drinker, whereas I rarely bother. I also know for sure that stress causes flushes in me, too. I am about to cut the carbs, but this is mainly to lose weight and (hopefully) the spots across my shoulders that appeared about a year ago. They are horrible, and embarrassing.
I am lucky really, my flushes arent as horrendous as other peoples, I hope they stay that way, though at least in the winter its some welcome warmth, whereas in the summer they really were a curse.
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I too have noticed a connection between too much sugar and an increase in flushes. I also get less at night if i have a bowl of cornflakes late evening so i do not go to bed hungry which could confirm the dip in blood sugar theory.
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Hmm, complicated, because surely cornflakes would cause a dip in sugar levels at some point during the night. Unless it depends on the quantity of cornflakes eaten or maybe blood sugars behave differently when asleep? :-\ I know i would get heartburn if I did it, LOL! I wonder if keeping carbs low all the time, which evens out the blood sugars, avoiding highs and lows, would be better in the long run. Oh well, if it works for you, then that's great, eh! ;)
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I think digestion slows right down when you're asleep so you don't get the same fluctuations in blood sugar as when you eat when you are awake. Just my theory... ;)
A small snack before bed seems to keep me on an even keel till morning. :)
Catweazle x
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So, to summarise - to keep my hot flushes to a minimum, I have to cut down on anything with caffeine in it, sugar, fat, alcohol - does that mean I am going to have to actually eat fruit and veg now?? On a more serious note though, I have today just decided to cut out tea, coffee and alcohol for a few days to see if it makes any difference. I already eat plenty of fruit and veg and have cut down on sweet stuff in an attempt to lose a few pounds. We have some friends for Sunday lunch so doubt my alcohol abstinence will hold firm that day, but I shall continue next week. Watch this space!
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Mine ended up every twenty minutes day and night and what I ate didn't seem to make a blind bit of difference.
Taz x
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That's my opinion too, Taz. I suppose if you usually eat a lot of sugary things, then stop, you might see all sorts of changes, but as far as hot flushes go, I haven't noticed any difference.
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Why would my cornflakes cause a dip, my mother was diabetic and if she didn't have a snack before bed she could go hypo in the night, now that really is a dip. and i don't see what the make of cornflakes has to do with it at all. ::)
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Having re-read some of these posts, hot flushes are caused by hormonal changes, not sugar!
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Margarett, did you read my link?? Its an interesting line of thinking and there is more on the internet on the subject. I think its always good to keep an open mind on things and look into anything that could help especially if hot fushes are a real problem. I have to say the flushes aren't my biggest problem, luckily.
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Yes, I've read the link, and I do see that if you are eating lots of refined sugar products, and getting excessive amounts of flushing, then it might help to cut down. But I don't think it would make that much difference otherwise. As for keeping an open mind, I totally agree. The link with spicy foods and flushes is well known, and also the link with alcohol. So nothing new there really.
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Forgive me, I hope the information on carby sugary foods is of interest to some, as this was a new one to me and that is why I posted the link. Yes it contained information that I believe IS common knowledge, but if the information on carbs is of help to anyone, or causes people to look into this further and they find it helps them, I will be very happy.
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I wonder why we don't experience hot flushes for all of our life if foods are part of it?
Taz x
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Probably because foods are just 'part of it' - the other part is to do with oestrogen levels ???
Catweazle x
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We are all unique but I personally think the major factor is having an adequate and stable hormone balance.
My friend has been on HRT for many years and drinks gin and eats spicy and sugar laden foods. She very rarely has flushes.
Me on the other hand just has to look at a glass of wine or a curry and I'm sweating but I know my Oestrogen level isn't optimal yet.
I'm sure each individual will work out what works and doesn't work for them as far as flushing triggers go.
Away to have a very unspicy alcohol free dinner!
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lol, i am about to have a curry. I like to live dangerously :) besides, its a bit cold here and a hot flush would be welcome ;)
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I drank far too much red wine last night and had the most horrendous flushes all night. Back on the wagon for me for a while! :(
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I suppose that was a plus for me once I had them all the time - it made no difference what I ate or drank so I could enjoy myself again!
Taz x
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On the 15th November I posted that I was going to give up alcohol and caffeine in an attempt to reduce the effects of my hot flushes. It is now 11 days later and I have to report that they are significantly reduced in numbers and intensity. I now intend to keep to this regime but will give myself some time off for good behaviour over Christmas and the New Year!! If only I had tried this sooner. I know that I am probably quite lucky for this to work for me - and I am still considering the pros and cons of HRT just in case this is temporary, but for now... :)
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Thanks for the update Buffy - good news indeed!
I know from personal experience that diet plays a big part in the way I feel, meno-wise.
As far as flushes are concerned chocolate is the enemy in my case, worst luck! >:(
Catweazle x
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I agree, i get less flushes if i have less sugar and caffeine and if i go totally without i can have a day or two with none at all. It can't be a co incidence can it?
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I was taking clonodine for 6 months and they completely stopped my flushes. I got a bit warm at night but nothing that I couldnt deal with.
A few weeks ago, I got a repeat prescription and got this filled at a different chemist from normal so the supplier was different and the tablets were different. They were blue and sugar coated compared to my normal white ones. After about a week on the shiney blue tablets, all of my horrendous flushes and night sweats came back. It took me a wee while to make the connection.
I went back to my GP today and she gave me another prescription, so I now have my clonodine from my usual chemist. Here is hoping that in about a week, my flushes and night sweats will disappear.
Has anyone any idea why this could be ?
Thanks :)
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Hi hope someone can help, started flushes 5 years ago last period was over 2 years ago, Really wanted to "do it naturally" but just can't cope anymore don t worry about the brain fog the forgetfulness, but I know I'm irritable, im so tired all the time flushes are really getting me down, they are all day and night, get up 3 /4 times a night sitting in garden trying to cool down, considering hrt but will this mean I have periods again, just don't know what to do, also had sore tongue for long long time now dr said it could be lack of vitamin B been taking vit B tablets but not helping, o dear sounds like I moaning but would be grateful for any advice, I'm 57 hope someone can help thanks
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Dear Ducky Ducky
I am really sorry that you are struggling like this. I have been in similar boat for eight years and I dread the hot weather. Just read the previous post and wondered if clonidine was any use. Maybe someone will post on this. The flushes and sweats are horrible and their assoaciated symptoms. Do you have a helpful GP as that seems to be a key issue. I understand what you mean about not having bleeding back. Quite a lot of women find that they cannot tolerate the progesterone/progestin part of HRT. Obviously if there was a fix we would all be on it but I hope that there will be someone posting who can be of help.
Meg
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Dear meg
Thanks for your help, been work today and thought of nothing else, hrt or not hrt ha ha, still no idea, my partner says to just go and have a talk to Dr but I don t know, I ll have to see how it goes, thanks again
Linda
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Just getting up to date on this thread as I have been away for a while. As far as I understand, taking HRT does not necessarily mean you have periods again - especially if you haven't had one for two years. Read the link to HRT down the left side of this page. I am trying to wait for HRT until I haven't had one for 12 months (I am at 8 months now) then I can take the type that you don't get periods with. Until then, my regime of no alcohol or caffeine seems to be keeping things manageable. Maybe I won't need HRT afterall!
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:D Hi everyone..
I too was put on hrt due to the terrible hot flushes I was experiencing, but then because of high blood pressure was taken off hrt altogether.. Was told I had tried everything and there was nothing left and I had to cope with them... Considering they could sometimes last up to 2 hours at a time and I would be soaked to the skin and totally miserable this seemed almost an unbearable thought..
But I read Starflowers comments on Starflower capsules and decided to try them myself.. WOOOOOPEEEE!!!!! They really do work!! I take 1000mg capsule once a day and although I do get the occasional hot flush still they are much more manageable.. Thank you so much for your tip.. I am eternally grateful.. they started working for me within a few days, so please anyone suffering these awful hot flushes give them a try.. I am sure they may not work for everyone, but really worth a try.. Thank you Starflower!! xx
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Hi I've looked up the starflower capsules and can't seem to see anything that says they help with hot flushes, I am interested in trying them but I am looking for something to help lesson the flushes so need to be reassured that the capsules will help with that.
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:) I actually got mine online at natures best, but I am informed you can get them in tesco too.. and probably a bit cheaper. They have certainly helped me, tho I do still get a few hot flushes now and again they are nowhere near as bad and are copable now.. hope this helps :)
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Thanks Eve, it is very helpful especially if you can buy them in tescos, I will certainly be having a look next time I go. :)
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I know I've mentioned this before on the Forum, but has anyone (who doesn't use HRT) tried the Boots' Ladycare Magnet? You're supposed to attach it to your underwear in the pelvic area - which I do - but at night I fix it to my skin with Micropore tape. I've used the magnet for about two years now and although I get my share of daytime hot flushes, I can't remember when (if ever) my last night sweat was. It means my nightclothes stay nice and dry and even if I do wake up, there's nothing to stop me getting back to sleep. I'd recommend it for anyone not using HRT.
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Hi everyone. Phew it's hot in here.
I keep a fan by my bed to cope with night sweats and feeling hot.
I sweat during the day as well.
It's mainly my upper body that gets hot.
Today, I walked the ten-minute walk home, quite briskly. When I got home i started sweating and had to take my shirt off because it was wet, especially under the arms.
I also ran my fingers through my hair and my head was really hot.
I also notice that if I get flustered, I suddenly start sweating.
Yesterday, when I was with my friend, I had been walking, and my neck got all wet. I told her to feel my neck and she said it was clammy and wet.
Does this all sound like familiar peri-menopause stuff?
Thanks
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After reading about Starflower oil on this thread, I bought some. I've been taking 2000mg of Evening Primrose and 1000mg of Starflower for a month now and I haven't had a flush or sweat for almost a week. Keeping fingers crossed!
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Has nobody else tried Ladyycare?
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If you type "ladycare" into the search box in the blue bar towards the top of the page it should bring up all the posts about it.
Taz :)
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Menopause actually helped me lower my energy bills, because I only needed low-level heating on last year when it was Winter.
In this way, meno saved me money, a lot of money, so, every cloud has a silver lining.
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Do you live alone Dandelion or did you watch the other members of your family shiver? ;D
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Do you live alone Dandelion or did you watch the other members of your family shiver? ;D
I live alone thankfully.
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So you are the mistress of your household thermostat!!
Taz :)
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I don't live alone but I still control the heating. If they get cold then they can all put on a jumper ;D
It's either that or I would strip off to my smalls and just the threat of that is enough for my kids ;)
Honeyb
X
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Hello all .....new today ;)
I am not coping I had the flushes before then they went, thought great thats that all done with.
(Had a hysterectomy in 1992 but they left the ovaries.)
How wrong was I there back with vengence day and night after a long while years infact.
It dont help that we are now in spain, there are not recommended with the summer temps here.
Went to our local chemist and told them that I use to be on premarin, got told that they dont have that here, no help at all so here I am, just joined you today so will try to read up in the forum.
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Hello all .....new today ;)
I am not coping I had the flushes before then they went, thought great thats that all done with.
(Had a hysterectomy in 1992 but they left the ovaries.)
How wrong was I there back with vengence day and night after a long while years infact.
It dont help that we are now in spain, there are not recommended with the summer temps here.
Went to our local chemist and told them that I use to be on premarin, got told that they dont have that here, no help at all so here I am, just joined you today so will try to read up in the forum.
Sorry to hear you have had horrible flushes.
I'm a week into hrt and I think mine have gone, it's difficult to say, though, because it's turned cold here this last few days in the UK.
Sorry I cannot help you with doctors in Spain.
I am on hrt for peri menopausal women as I am still bleeding. Its a oestradiol pill and for 14 days, it has synthetic progesterone in it.
I am led to beleive that bio-identical progesterone is best though, but I am only new to this whole thing, so have a lot to learn.
The info on this site is really good though.
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Hi Miramar - welcome to the forum. As Dandelion says you will find lots of good info and support on here. We have a couple of members who live in Spain so they may be able to help.
Perhaps you could introduce yourself under the New Members thread? Posts sometimes get lost and everyone will want to welcome you.
Dandelion - don't worry - hot flushes don't stop because the weather gets cooler, unfortunately, so it could be that your HRT is kicking in already.
Taz x
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Hi Miramar - welcome to the forum. As Dandelion says you will find lots of good info and support on here. We have a couple of members who live in Spain so they may be able to help.
Perhaps you could introduce yourself under the New Members thread? Posts sometimes get lost and everyone will want to welcome you.
Dandelion - don't worry - hot flushes don't stop because the weather gets cooler, unfortunately, so it could be that your HRT is kicking in already.
Taz x
Hi Taz
Thanks for the clarification.
I am still very anxious though, so I don't feel they have kicked in fully. I understand this can take upto 3months, but, I don't mind waiting because it will be worth it to get rid of this anxiety.
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I can't help re the anxiety as I didn't find any difference and it wasn't the reason I started HRT but I know others have said that it can be the last symptom to go so don't give up.
Taz x
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I can't help re the anxiety as I didn't find any difference and it wasn't the reason I started HRT but I know others have said that it can be the last symptom to go so don't give up.
Taz x
Thanks Taz.
PS sorry for hijacking thread.
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I don't live alone but I still control the heating. If they get cold then they can all put on a jumper ;D
It's either that or I would strip off to my smalls and just the threat of that is enough for my kids ;)
Honeyb
X
Ha Ha, I am a lecturer and last monday I was stood in front of 50 undergrads who were all wrapped up in their coats while i stood in a light dress with all the windows open!
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After reading about Starflower oil on this thread, I bought some. I've been taking 2000mg of Evening Primrose and 1000mg of Starflower for a month now and I haven't had a flush or sweat for almost a week. Keeping fingers crossed!
Still flush and night sweat free. I'm now taking 2000mg of Starflower and 1000mg of EP. When my bottle of EP finishes I'm going to try 3000mg of Starflower only as I've heard it's more effective than EP and it will also save me having to keep two bottles of capsules on the go. I feel very cautiously encouraged.
Thank you Menopause Matters Forum!! ;)
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Hi
Not on here very often but my flushes are getting uncontrollable. I must have 20 to 30 per night and the same during the day. I already take Starflower oil caps but am thinking of doubling the dose. Dong Quai helped at first then they seemed to stop working. I wont go on HRT for various reasons. Looking on another site, some people suggested Sage tablets upto 3500mg per day, has anyone tried them?
I,m getting desperate now.
xxx
Thanks
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Hi
Not on here very often but my flushes are getting uncontrollable. I must have 20 to 30 per night and the same during the day. I already take Starflower oil caps but am thinking of doubling the dose. Dong Quai helped at first then they seemed to stop working. I wont go on HRT for various reasons. Looking on another site, some people suggested Sage tablets upto 3500mg per day, has anyone tried them?
I,m getting desperate now.
xxx
Thanks
Hello
No advice to give here, sorry, just popped in to say someone will be along and I hope you feel better in 2014.
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Can I ask why you don't consider HRT. In my experience this is the only thing that beats such intense flushes. I am off it at the moment and am finding it extremely difficult to function too.
Taz x
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I wont go on HRT because I believe that it only puts off the inevitable and I would rather go through it while I am 55 and not when I am 65 or 70 when I got off HRT. My sister was on HRT for 10 years then doctor took her off it, she begged him to go back on it last year as her aches were bad again and now she has been diagnosed with leukemia, so I will not try it.
Although I am finding the flushes a pain I would rather find a natural remedy than HRT. " years ago I suffered with terrible aches and pains in my joints but decided to try to lose weight which has helped enormously.
xxx
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Hello wit27,
Re sage tablets, I took Menoforce sage tablets by A Vogel for the first year I was getting hot flushes and sleepless nights. They worked brilliantly for the first year (they took 3 weeks to start being effective), but then they stopped working completely! I don't know if that was because my hormone levels dropped even more or my body got used it! But its worth giving it a try - I would only recommend that brand as I know other brands don't seem to work.
Fingers crossed it works for you
Julie x
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Thank you Julie
xxxxx
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Hi wlt27 - welcome to MM
I've just read your posts. I'm sorry to hear your flushes are causing so much trouble.
You say you don't want to take HRT because you would rather go through all this discomfort now rather than later.
I started being peri in my mid 30s and was probably post meno by my early 40s so had to have HRT to protect my bones etc. When the scares about HRT happened in 2002 i was 49 and decided to come off HRT and hoped the terrible meno symptoms would subside reasonably quickly. 3 years later I was still having flushes - at least 3 per hour, not sleeping and feeling dreadfully tired. I spent a fortune on all the herbal remedies which did nothing - I'm afraid I believe they only work for women who have very mild symptoms and may only have a placebo affect - that's only my view from my experiences.
When a friend, who was in her 80s, heard how I suffering she got very cross and told me very firmly to go back on HRT - she was still taking a low dose HRT herself and felt wonderful. I did as she suggested and got my life back - I now feel cheated by that flawed study back in 2002 as I had lost 3 years of my life for no real reason!!
I am now nearly 58 and four and a half years on I am having another break from HRT to see how things are. I reduced slowly over 6 weeks & now 2 months without HRT the meno symptoms haven't been nearly as bad as last time. I am using local oestrogen to help with vaginal atrophy which causes me a great deal of discomfort and has done for years but provided I can still work and get a reasonable nights sleep I will not go back on full HRT. If I'm not coping I will certainly go back on HRT and stay on as long as possible.
What I'm trying to tell you is: If your life is really restricted by the meno symptoms it may be worth giving HRT a try. Life is short - enjoy life while you can. Of course, the choice to take HRT or not is very personal. I'm sure the HRT didn't give your sister Leukemia and provided you are healthy the benefits of HRT can far outweigh any risks. There have been many posts like yours where women worry they are simply putting off the inevitable but I'm hoping my story will help you to see that coming off HRT isn't always terrible.
During my previous time off HRT I found the following things helped me cope with the flushes and night sweats:
3 tog duvet filled with cotton - even through winter.
Avoid over heated shops - it was great to hang around the freezer areas in super markets.
Only wear cotton and thin layers that you can easily strip off when flushes happen.
Avoid hot drinks, alcohol, curries etc.
I stayed indoors on warm sunny days and had a fan going all the time.
Try running your wrists under cold water when you get a flush - it can cool you down more quickly.
I kept a bucket with iced water by my bed so I could put my feet in it when I woke with a night sweat.
I took a Nytol every so often to get a better nights sleep.
I do hope you feel better soon. You may be lucky and only suffer with symptoms for a few months.
I do recommend taking Omega oils, glucosamine and vitamin D to protect your bones and heart - this is very, very important. Good luck DG x
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Thank you Dancing Girl for your reply. I am now having a good think about HRT after all that you have said.
xxxxx
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I started to suffer hot flushes in sept 2010 at 53 having had the mirena coil out. I tried hrt tablets then patches which worked for the flushes BUT i went from a size 10 to 14 in just a few months. I tried different HRT but was struggling with the weight and it made me depressed. In summer 2013 i decided to try herbal remedies such as kohosh and menopace. Nothing has worked. At 58 im going to the gym, not eating much but i have dreadful hot flushes still especially at night, sometimes up to 20 times and my hair is drenched. It affects my quality of life so much. I re married in november last year and cant believe my husband puts up with it. Having enjoyed sex so much i now have no libido whatsoever. I take kalms to get a better nights sleep occasionally but its never ending.
This week we are skiing in France and i had a hot flush whilst in the pharmacy buying a knee support. The pharmacist (female) sold me ABUFENE and said they are for flushes and WORK. YOU SHOULD take 3 a day for ten days and then supposedly they disappear!!!! Ive been taking them since monday 7 jan 2014. No idea if they will work or if there are additional side effects. So far, nothing. HAS ANYONE ANY IDEA ABOUT THESE TABLETS please? And why don't we know about these in the UK?
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Hi Dayskipper
:welcomemm:
Looking up Abufene on the web it has been considered by the French Health Authority in 2011 ( and before) and they have concluded this:
As the available data is insufficient to distinguish between the proprietary medicinal product and a placebo in terms of efficacy, ABUFENE has no role in the treatment strategy of menopausal hot flushes.
http://www.has-sante.fr/portail/upload/docs/application/pdf/2012-12/abufene_ct_7419.pdf
So it looks like more work is needed.
Also it contains a substance called beta alanine which is an amino acid and seems to be sold as a supplement for body-builders!!
Here is some info (American medical site):
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1222-BETA-ALANINE.aspx?activeIngredientId=1222&activeIngredientName=BETA-ALANINE
It says amongst the side effects (of beta-alanine) that high doses can cause flushing!!!
Can this be the same substance??
Maybe we can help with a different type of HRT - you should be able to keep your weight down even on HRT - many of us manage to with care. Maybe start a new thread?
Hurdity x
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I found this on it http://translate.google.co.uk/translate?hl=en&sl=fr&u=http://www.doctissimo.fr/medicament-ABUFENE.htm&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dabufene%26espv%3D210%26es_sm%3D93%26biw%3D1280%26bih%3D684
which seems to say that you take it for up to ten days and then stop and restart once the flushes begin again.It doesn't seem to be used all the time.
Taz x
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The last months were hell. No energy, massive weight gain around the waist, and constant flushes and thereafter getting the chills and shaking and teeth chattering. Absolutely no proper sleep and the joints hurting as if I was run over by a truck when waking up.
My surgery has a doctor specialising in Menopause. I spoke to her on Saturday. She immediately put me on HRT. She is around my age and she said she herself is on HRT and will stay on it until she dies. She said HRT is not as bad as its being portrayed. She said it can even protect women from some cancers, bone issues etc.
So, since Saturday lunch time I am on HRT. I have taken my 5th tablet today and I am feeling a lot better. I had constant flushes and sweats. I was dehydrated as I could not drink enough to keep up with the fluid loss, especially at night. I cleaned my house this yesterday! I have energy. My brain is working. I have still some flushes, but they are a lot weaker and today I had 3 so far. I also had reasonable good sleep the last two nights since the last 6 months, and I woke up without any bone and joint pains.
For those of you interested I am on:
Prempak-C 0.625 mg (conjugated estrogens) 28 tablets / 0.15 mg (norgestrel) 12 tablets
If in a couple of months I still have flushes, she wants me to double the dosis of the 0.625mg tablet.
The only negative is, that I will have a period every month, but I may be lucky and it will not be as bad as it usually is. She said that if one goes on holiday and the period is due, one can skip taking the 0.15 mg tablets as a one off and not have a period whilst out holidaying. I am 48.
If this does not work for me at all we will review this. Another option for me was to get the coil and take some kind of hormone, that way I would not have any more periods. But I am not keen of having something inside of me.
All I can say is stay away from men doctors and the young female doctors. They have no clue! Look for the older female doctor, they hopefully have experienced this problem of pre and menopause themselves like my doctor.
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Hi
I am new to this site and wanted to say hello.
I have been suffering with hot flushes that end up with a pounding racing heart, usually when I wake up. It is really frightening. I have been to see GP and she said it is not my heart but the menopause. I haven't had a period for a few months now. Anyone else suffer with the pounding heart thing?
Shazzie
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Hi Shazzie and welcome MM
Pounding heart is very, very normal with flushes. Did your GP offer you HRT?
REad up all the info under the headings to the left of this screen and dip into some of the threads on this site and hopefully it will help.
If you tell us a bit more about you e.g. age, symptoms etc we can offer help and advice if you need it - we're all in the same boat.
DG x
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Thank you so much DH for your reply.
I am 53 and have had the flooding and periods all over the place for the past 3 years. My periods stopped 12 months ago but I had a little spotting in Sept and that has been it until the flushes and pounding racing heart started a month ago.
I have been to my GP and she reassured me that it is definitely not my heart and is the menopause. She asked me to think about HRT. I have Multiple Sclerosis so I will need to speak with my MS Nurse/Neuro and if they say it is ok then I reckon I will start HRT as I hate the pounding heart thing. Worse than the periods to be honest.
Are you on HRT and thanks again for your welcome and reassurance. It really helps and I really really apperciate it.
Shazzie x
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Shazzie
Why not start a new thread for yourself about MS and HRT. There will be ladies out there who have MS and are using HRT so will be able to advice you.
I have read some posts where HRT has improved MS symptoms.
I am currently having break from full HRT (I am nearly 58) to see how I cope. I was peri from my mid 30s so had to have HRT for many years. I am using Vagifem ( local oestrogen treatment to prevent Vaginal Atrophy - VA is a really nasty thing to have) but I will go back on HRT if I feel I need to.
It's good your GP is giving you the option of HRT as at 53 the symptoms can be debilitating. As we keep saying on this site - "life is short" and you don't want to waste time waiting, sometimes years, for the meno symptoms to pass.
Definitely start a thread - possible title - 'HRT and MS, advice please'. Then outline your history and ask questions.
Good luck DG x
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Good idea DG. I will do that now.
Thanks so much for your help. I really appreciate it.
Shazzie x
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Starflower.....in 2007 you shared your amazing results with starflower oil.1000mg. Love to know how 7 yrs on. How that panned out for you. You had been thru a wretched time. It saved you. Xx
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My hrt has not been getting rid of all of my flushes, and as they were still quite bothersome, I began taking magnesium citrate.
It has helped loads.
I find that if I take it between meals, about 150mgs, that I don't get diarrhoea.
It's well worth a try if you are getting tired of the flushes.
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I am really getting so fed-up with these hot flushes, they are particularly bad late afternoons and evenings. I keep wondering if I should try HRT even though I'm worried about the side effect of cancer. I just don't know what to do for the best. :-\
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JeanneA
Why are you so worried about the cancer risk? The risk is very small and HRT actually benefits the heart and bones. Is there breast cancer in your family?
Quality of life is terribly important and if the meno symptoms are getting you down it's well worth trying HRT. Do you have a good GP who you can talk to or perhaps a local meno clinic?
I don't know what stage of the meno you are at - your age etc. but trying a low dose to start with could be good - perhaps Femiston, as it's tolerated well by many women. DG x
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Hot flushes & night sweats struck me with a vengeance in February. Up until then I'd got off pretty lightly; I'm 54 and had one spell of night sweats a while ago but they went after taking soy isoflavones and a few sessions of acupuncture. Since Feb until last week, my sleep was badly disturbed and was getting flushes just about hourly through the day. I have a busy job and balance alot of things so was really struggling. I asked my GP to put me on HRT - everyone I know who has used it hasn't had a problem and all used it successfully to treat flushes. I have fibroids so had to get them measured to check whether they've grown in the 3 years since they were last measured (I still get the occasional period so HRT may stimulate them). I immediately re-started soy isoflavones but it made no difference and getting fibroids measured etc took time, so in desperation I tried other things. I got a Lady Care magnet (recommended by 2 women in X-ray dept where I got fibroids measured), started taking MenoSerene (from Healthspan) and Starflower Oil (after reading success stories on this site), and started acupuncture. I had my 4th session of acupuncture last week and all sweats/surges have stopped, I am sleeping better than for months and I feel well 'balanced' again. Obviously all of this is costing money, but I do think the acupuncture has worked and that Starflower oil in particular helped (I noticed an improvement quite soon). Not sure whether the magnet did anything but it may have eased the severity of the 'surges'. The acupuncturist thinks the vitamins will have helped. MenoSerene has all sort of things in and I reckon it has helped. I was dreading the summer and as most of my clothes are quite fitted, started looking out for loose clothes particularly for work. Am keeping fingers crossed that the acupuncture has done the trick and that I won't need HRT (as it's like the grim reaper, it'll get you at some point). Although acupuncture isn't cheap and I need several more sessions, it does seem to have worked so I am looking on it as an investment.
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Good morning everyone, I hope that you're all feeling fine and dandy.
I've a quick question. Since being in peri I have been having night sweats in the few days leading up to my period. The same this month for me but instead of the sweats stopping they have continued. I got hardly any sleep last night because I kept waking up soaking wet and had to jump in the shower and change clothes. I feel so low and exhausted today.
Is it normal for the sweats to continue through my period?
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Claire xx
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Hi Claireylou
It sounds to me as though you are getting deeper into the menopause. Of course the very humid weather we've been having lately will make any sweats a lot worse as well. Are your periods still regular? What age are you?
No two women are the same when it comes to the menopause.
DG x
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Hi DG and thank you for replying.
I'm 43, been in peri for about 3 years. My mum had completely gone through by age 46.
My periods are a bit more erratic these days, ranging from two weeks late to two weeks early. This one is very light with no pains or pmt so I'm guessing that's the reason why my night sweats are still lurking.
Thanks again xx
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If you are peri at such an early age, have you not been told you need HRT? The normal age of meno is 50-54 and if you are getting oestrogen deficient then you are in danger of developing osteoporosis and possibly heart disease.
I'd hotfoot to the GP and ask if it isn't high time you started on some low dose HRT to prevent bone loss and reduce the meno symptoms that are now really impacting on your quality of life. If you have one of the ignorant GPs who are still very anti HRT then ask for a referral to a gynae or a meno clinic if there is one in your area. It's sometimes worth asking if there is someone who is specialising in menopause at your GP surgery. Do read up all the info under the headings to the left to this screen as it will arm you with everything you need to know and you can print stuff off to show the GP if necessary.
I was peri meno from my mid 30s and my GP simply said that if I was her daughter she would be insisting I take HRT & this was over 20 years ago. Dg x
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Thanks for that DG. My GP is part of a tiny village practice so maybe I'll go and sound him out about a referral.
Take care xx
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I'm 55 now and my hot flushes started about 4 years ago, and intensified hugely about 2 years ago. 3 - 4 flushes per hour during the day (tip to toe) and 8 - 12 a night (soaking). My mum had breast cancer, so HRT isn't really an option. I've tried a million natural remedies (or that's what it feels like) and I've certainly tried everything that people usually try - without any success whatsoever. However, I have had success with a few natural treatments. The first was a combination of barley & wheatgrass. It was amazing; the hot flushes stopped within THREE days. Incredible. Regrettably this only lasted for about 10 weeks, then they gradually came back again. I saw a Kinesiologist for a while, which was very expensive, truth be told. However, at one point the combination she was prescribing me did result in the hot flushes to stop for about 3 months. But then, same as before, they gradually came back again. And nothing she did subsequently made any difference, so I stopped wasting my money. Then a friend told me about Peruvian Maca root. She was on MacaFema and her hot flushes had stopped. First I tried Rainforest Alliance 'Organic Maca Root powder capsules' which didn't do a thing. Then I switched to this MacaFema, and that was successful. It took about 2 weeks for the flushes to go, and then the same happened: they gradually came back after about 10 weeks.
It seems to me that your body simply adjusts to whatever you put in it, and then reverts to where it was before you started taking it.
My GP suggested I try Fluoxetine, another name for Prozac, but this didn't do anything, regrettably.
NB Anti-depressants are NOT necessarily prescribed for depression in menopausal women, but because they have shown to sometimes help in suppressing hot flushes - although, as far as I am aware, it is not really certain why that should be so.
I've tried Red Clover before, but I'll give it another shot. Promensil double strength. At least there have been 15 years of clinical trials (some positive, some inconclusive). When you have a history of breast cancer yourself, or in your immediate family, be careful what you take. In the case of Red Clover it has been shown that, although it is not recommended if you have had breast cancer yourself, there is no evidence of change in breast density over a period of 1 - 3 years in those who have a history of breast cancer in their immediate family.
It was interesting to read about the Star Oil, but the point is that there's not much in the way of clinical trials that I've been able to find. So, because of my mum's breast cancer, I will steer clear of it.
A Chillow is very good when you are having a night sweat. Put it aside afterwards to let it cool down again for the next wave.
Bamboo bedlinen is meant to be much better than 100% cotton even. I've just ordered a sheet and will let you know!
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Hi and welcome jessiesmum
Thank you for sharing your experiences. It is very difficult when HRT is not an option.
I have heard that acupuncture is good but this can be expensive and you have to find a good practitioner.
I had a premature menopause so had to have HRT from my late 30s. I took a break from HRT at 49 thinking it was time to stop and I was was fed up with the period pains each month. I tried all the herbs, alternative remedies and diet options with no success. I put up with 3 years of hell, then gave in and went back on HRT.
I'm now 58 and have been off HRT for over 9 months now and I've actually coped better this time. The recent hot and humid weather was a nightmare though!!! For me it's the dreadful heat creeping up my legs at night - I feel as though my legs are going to explode - like you I use a chillow.
Do look again at the 'Prescribable non-HRT' section to the left of this screen as there are other drug options you could try.
I do think it is worth taking a good multi vitamin and some omega oils just to support the immune system - if one is sleep deprived(which most of us are) it can lay us low.
Keep posting DG x
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It seems to me that your body simply adjusts to whatever you put in it, and then reverts to where it was before you started taking it.
Well this says it all for me! I have been 2 years into my change. I have had fibroid tumors and endometriosis since my 30's. I had one fibroid removed prior to pregnancy and two fibroids when I was pregnant. Also, both mom and grandmother had breast cancer so NO HRT for me. In the beginning my periods were so heavy I became anemic. Could not tolerate iron pills so began taking Floradix which helped immensely with the fatigue due to heavy bleeding. Then they stopped. 2-3 months without a period then one that lasted 10 days and so on. Finally they became lighter and less frequent. Then came the hot flashes and night sweats along with mood swings. (http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c17/jes_mys316/mad%20combat/gaah.gif) (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/jes_mys316/media/mad%20combat/gaah.gif.html)
The Doc suggested AD's which I promptly shut down the notion since I have had friends and family members who got much worse on the rollercoaster of trying 5-6 different pills to try and find one that works. To no avail. My petite sister even gained 30 lbs. on one of them (Paxil). So I got my research geek on and started digging. Unfortunately each time I seem to find something that eliminates them they come back after a few months. I will detail these below.
- Vitex - worked a bit for a few weeks
- DHEA - I have taken this for years on and off and decided to go back on. Helps with weight & libido. Not so much the hot flashes and night sweats
- Black Cohosh - no discernible difference
- Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) - this worked amazingly for about 3 months. Thought I had found my miracle cure. But now they are back!
- Exercise - helps a bit but who feels like heating up more?
- Sage - cuts down on the sweating, not as visible to others when you are having a hot flash
- Muscle relaxer (cyclobenzaprine) - take one at night when it is a last resort because the sweats are so bad I cannot sleep. At least I get a few hours but feel sluggish the next day. I am prescribed these for back issues since my 20's but take these as all meds very sparingly.
- Soy milk - no difference
- Biosil - this product I took because my long, thick hair was thinning rapidly. I can't say enough great things about this stuff. It has helped stop my thinning hair and nails and is great for bones too!!
- No more coffee - just felt it triggered them
I am certain I have forgotten a few but these are a good list of my attempts at sanity. I still take the Vitamin E, just started the Sage a few weeks ago, Biosil, and try to eat healthy. The worst is not sleeping right. Interruptions from kicking off the covers in intense heat and waking a few minutes later freezing from the A/C is so tough. I guess we are all looking for a fix to the crazy time of women's lives. It is just nice to feel we are not alone in this quest...(http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c17/jes_mys316/expressions/girlwacko.gif) (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/jes_mys316/media/expressions/girlwacko.gif.html)
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I am not on any meds specifically for meno although on citalopram for low mood not that it's helping hot flushes! I don't actually sweat just feet hot from neck upwards. Occ Health recommended a fan at work which I used and everyone is jealous given the weather lately! Plus have a fan by bed at home.
Biosol sounds interesting Karina - hair is thinner but was never thick tbh! But I'm in the process of losing a big toe nail :( so wondering if it might help with that?!
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Interesting reading
http://www.progesteronetherapy.com/cure-for-hot-flashes.html#axzz39W0nA84n
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Hi ladies,
I've been mostly a lurker here, desperately seeking a remedy for terrible hot flashes. I'm 47 and a breast cancer survivor, so menopause is starting a little early for me and HRT is absolutely not an option.
A few months ago I suddenly found myself in hot flash hell (and here I thought Tamoxifen and chemo hot flashes were bad!), having awful, sweaty ones every 30 minutes (I charted them) and didn't get a good night of sleep for about 7 weeks.
Nettle tea for adrenal support, wild yam cream with no bio-identical progesterone, and magnesium brought them down to once an hour. Several other things did zero. Then I found people talking about Starflower / Borage Oil here and started taking it. I started at 1000 mg twice a day for a week and had mild improvement in the intensity, but not quantity. Then read that some people have better luck with 3000 mg a day. I increased to 1000 mg 3 x day and saw an immediate improvement. That was about 3-4 weeks ago and I'm still pinching myself with joy because now the hot flashes are few and mild. What a relief!
I'M ANOTHER STARFLOWER OIL SUCCESS STORY! WOOHOO!!!
Mindy
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I feel for all you ladies out there suffering with hot flushes. :-\ Friends of mine are going through something similar so I do empathize....I am amazed that at 49 I haven't had any hot flushes at all but I have read some research that eating/drinking soya can prevent the flushes happening and as I have been doing this since I was 23 it just may be working! My GP did say that this may only have a positive effect if you have been having soya for a long time. I would urge everybody to let the younger generation of women know about the positive effects of soya - its good for cholesterol too! Many soya drinks contains lots of great vitamins too including vitamin C and D so an added bonus!
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Hi lg :welcomemm:
Yes it's always worth trying alternative therapies. This is the information from the menu on the left of the screen http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/phytoestrogens.php No good for me I'm afraid as I've got a sensitivity to soya.
Just to say, also, that a lot of women (me included) don't start to get hot flushes until well into their fifties so fingers crossed you stay flush-free!!
Taz x :)
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I take femoston sequi 2mg oestradiol and it is useless.
I still get night sweats and hot flushes/sweats during the day.
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Hi everyone,
I just joined the forum and wanted to say it's lovely to see how everyone supports and encourages each other. I know we all feel symptoms and sometimes these are terrible but we should remind ourselves that we are going through a natural process and try not to feel bad about ourselves. I think part of the problem is that we live in a society where older women aren't valued- we are youth obsessed- and the menopause just reminds us that we are not "young". They did a study recently which showed that half of women feel invisible past the age of 50. This is terrible. It would be great if one day the menopause was seen as a positive thing cos it proved how wise and grown up you were!
Kirstie x
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Hi everyone,
I just joined the forum and wanted to say it's lovely to see how everyone supports and encourages each other. I know we all feel symptoms and sometimes these are terrible but we should remind ourselves that we are going through a natural process and try not to feel bad about ourselves. I think part of the problem is that we live in a society where older women aren't valued- we are youth obsessed- and the menopause just reminds us that we are not "young". They did a study recently which showed that half of women feel invisible past the age of 50. This is terrible. It would be great if one day the menopause was seen as a positive thing cos it proved how wise and grown up you were!
Kirstie x
We don't have to suffer now, with modern hrt.
I wrote above that femoston is useless, but it works for most women.
It's just that I am not absorbing mine. I'd suspected that for a long time, but kept quiet, as my doctor gets cross for some unknown reason so it put me off addressing the matter until recently.
I've been in contact with our great Dr Currie and she confirmed my suspicions and with her help I am addressing this issue when I see my GP next week, for a specially booked double session.
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Hi Kirstie
:welcomemm:
Glad you find the forum supportive.
I totally agree with you about society's view of women and our youth obsessed culture - but that does not mean we should embrace menopause naturally ie do nothing to alleviate the miserable symptoms which can seriously effect quality of life and health for many women.
Menopause may be a natural process but diabetes is also a natural disease. Unfortunately women can spend one third of their lives in menopause with life expectancy at an all time high and there are several health conditions associated with oestrogen deficiency - of which osteoporosis and heart disease are two, not to mention the discomfort associated with bladder problems, vaginal atrophy and other things like fatigue, low mood, joint problems, hot flushes etc!
I agree we should not be made to feel invisible - but I am 61 and will never embrace menopause - although at this age I do feel grown-up and hopefully a little bit wise :). I don't feel invisible though!!!
Do tell us some more about yourself and where abouts you are in menopause in the new members section
Hurdity x
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Hi,
No of course I didn't mean to say that we shouldn't seek help or medication - in the form of HRT or whatever works for people. Everyone is different.
It's a shame that so many GPs are so clueless when it comes to menopause- and also a lot of them won't prescribe hrt anymore. A lot more research needs to be done but the more we educate ourselves and talk about it the better.
I'm just starting to notice hormonal changes (skin, flushes and memory loss!) and I want to know as much as possible so I am prepared for what is to come.
x
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Hi Kirstie and welcome to MM
It's really good to be clued up on the menopause and what to expect. I think there is a danger of looking for or expecting problems and a small percentage of women sail through their menopause with barely a flush - they are the lucky ones. Do read up all the info under the headings to the left of this screen as it will really give you a lot of what you need to know. Here on MM we exchange our experiences and try to support each other through the minefield that is 'the menopause'.
Sadly there is still so much misinformation and secrecy around 'the change' and the medical profession is generally slow and often reluctant to help.
It sounds as though you are in early peri meno - Keep posting. Dg x
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Hi all
I'm 52 and I thought I was 'getting away with it' until 6 months ago. My periods were getting more gappy, but apart from that I felt just the same as normal. Then in June this year the night sweats suddenly started, almost immediately after my period stopped. I haven't had a period since, and the sweats have gradually worsened, increasing in frequency and severity, and then last month starting in the daytime too as well as at night.
It seems to be a different kind of sweat to normal sweat - thick and greasy and very copious. In the night I have been sleeping on a bath towel to save the sheets and pillows, but in the daytime, god help whatever clothes I am wearing, no matter how fast I shed the layers, the bottom layer is always quickly drenched and I can literally feel steam coming out of my collar. Forget about makeup, it slides off. Winter temps and more clothes on actually make it worse, at least in the summer when I was in light clothes the sweat had more chance to evaporate. If I get one when I'm out in a winter coat ... ugh!
All I have to do is even think of anything stressful and it seems to trigger a sweat. I'm having one right now as I type this. My whole body gets drenched, from my head to my feet - hair, neck, chest, back, arms and legs. And it's just so horrible and unpleasant. At night I wake with a start, wondering what the matter is, and seconds later the sweat starts...
I started on Femoston 1/10 dual phase continuous pills three days ago, after the third lot of arguing with my GP, who wanted me to go natural, and then offered me other meds not HRT. I swear if my GP had to go through even one month of night and day sweats like this he'd be begging for HRT too, whatever the risks. It's all about quality of life at the end of the day.
I hope and pray it's going to kick in soon, as I have a job interview a week tomorrow and just know that if the HRT hasn't stopped or reduced the sweats by then, that I'm sure to have one during the interview :'(
I'll let you all know in due course if the Femoston makes any difference. It took my mother 3 goes on different types of HRT before she hit on the right one for her, which was a Prempak C patch.
Are there 'any' upsides to Menopause? At the moment it feels like a cruel joke on women. Men don't know how lucky they are.
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Wow Middlekid, you really are suffering! I did have quite severe flushes, but it was more about the heat, I didn't seem to sweat much and I didn't have the horrific night sweats you describe! I started the meno at 53. I'm 62 now and the flushes are reduced in number to a few a week, and of much lower intensity. I still have most of the other symptoms, aching joints, insomnia, lack of patience , mood swings etc, but hopefully these will ease as time goes on. However, having read a few of the earlier posts on this thread, I soooo agree that today's society only values youth! For goodness sake its just not possible to stay looking 25 forever, so why does TV and magazine advertising suggest that only 'young and beautiful people' count???
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I hope your hrt kicks in soon middlekid. I'm not sure how long pills take to work but I know from my own experience that the patches stopped my every-twenty-minutes-drenching-sweat routine within twenty four hours. I used to take a change of clothes into work.
Taz x
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Was able to cope with hot flushes last week on holiday.... Air con in the bedroom kept the room like a fridge, & sitting under an umbrella by the pool in a swimsuit aeemed to work too ....back to normal this week :-( x
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The only thing that controls my flushes and night sweats is HRT, and that is 20 years after my last period. Doctors don't take it seriously and will not acknowledge just how ennervating and unpleasant it can be especially when you are woken repeatedly during the night. I'm now 60 and my doctor refuses to prescribe any more, and after 4 weeks I am desperate to the extent of looking for online sources.
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Hi and welcome Missjanecobb
The new guidelines say that as long as you are fully aware of the risks there is no reason for not continuing with HRT beyond 60. I'm not sure where you will find these new guidelines but have a hunt around on this site - it could be under : http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/index.php/board,4.0.html
Can you ask for a referral to a meno clinic or, if you can afford it, go privately. I'm 58 and recently saw a gynae privately to get HRT again - though my GP wasn't against me going back on HRT she wanted a specialist opinion.
Do start your own thread so you get more support from all the ladies on here.
DG x
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Hi everyone, everybody has been so supportive before so I'm here for more advice. I had started HRT and it did work but after taking a reduced dose due to increase in migraines (the reason I stopped the pill) I had to stop due to increased migraine activity. I stopped in June 2013 and the flushes have been relentless really intense, sometimes I feel I am going to pass out and I have to sit down, with and without palpitations, recently I have started breaking out in a sweat.
I did take clonidine for a while and it did work it reduced frequency and intensity, I had to reduce those as I was virtually falling asleep at my desk, so I take just a half dose at night and a sage tablet in the morning.
The reason I am posting and if it's in the wrong place please re direct me, the flushes are bad enough as they have regained their momentum and sometimes I am up about 11 times per night, I need advice with those but I now have problems 'down below'. I have tried lubrication but that doesn't seem to work 'inside' if you know what I mean? I have grazed slightly as well during which I think has put me off a little. I can't tell my hubbie he is so kind, I think he would worry too much and I don't want to spoil what little affectionate time we have (that's due to me feeling worried & embarrassed)
can anyone advise. by the way I menopaused at 40 and am now 48, thank you x :'(
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Hi Hazymaiden and welcome back
You poor,poor thing - sadly nobody can tell us how long these meno symptoms will last - for some women things settle after a couple of years while others suffer for 20 years or more.
Firstly I think you are way to young not to be using HRT. Were you using HRT in pill form before? If so then you need to try using trans dermal HRT as it is less likely to trigger migraines. Also the type of progesterone can make a big difference as well.
Have a look at the section to the left of this screen under HRT preparations in green.
There are patches but many of us are now using Utrogestan for the progesterone part as it is bio identical and generally kinder. For the oestrogen you could use patches or Oestrogel.
As for the vaginal problems, you need local oestrogen like Vagifem - this will restore things down there and keep it healthy. Even if you don't use full HRt the local oestrogen can be used for ever to help prevent atrophy and bladder problems. I also use Multi Gyn Actigel to keep things lubricated and comfortable.
I am 58 and after a one year break from HRT I am now back on as the lack of sleep was getting to me and I couldn't function well.
Many GPs are not clued up about HRT and the menopause so maybe ask to be referred to a meno clinic. If you have a good GP who can talk to then perhaps print out the info from this site and show them what you would like to try.
Do start your own post under 'all things Menopause' on the forum so more ladies can respond and support you.
Keep posting. DG x
PS - If you didn't want to go back on HRT then the gynae I saw recently recommends a SSRI called Citalopram that he finds the most effective in controlling meno symptoms. I have a colleague at work who is on this and she is feeling great. You should still use Vagifem for the lady parts as it is only absorbed locally where it is needed.
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I'm not sure whether I'll be allowed to take oestrogen as the Dr's think it's this that caused my migraines and they are worried about me having a stroke especially after being stopped when taking the pill and twice with the HRT, that is why I wonder whether they will prescribe vagifem as it says in it's contra indications that you shouldn't take as risk of clots.
They have offered me anti depressants for the flushes too but I have found from previous experience that they 'mind warp' me. I am at the stage and probably due to sleep deprivation that I can't handle it any more, especially as our loving relationship is suffering......
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Hi Hazy
There shouldn't be any problems with the local oestrogen - unfortunately the leaflets and contraindications are exactly the same as for systemic HRT which is crazy but, as I said before, little if any oestrogen is absorbed around the body.
The risk of blood clots and stroke are very small even when taking full HRT. Do you have high blood pressure? I didn't think migraines gave an increased risk of stroke!!!!?
Oestrogen will protect you from heart disease and osteoporosis and can reduce the risk of bowel cancer. If you aren't overweight or suffer from high blood pressure then HRT should still be an option and I believe many migraine sufferers do well on the trans dermal HRT - but I can understand your reluctance as full blown migraines are truly horrid.
The newer types of ADs which are SSRIs don't act in the same way as the older types like clonidine. Have you tried Citalopram? The gynae that I saw told me his wife, who has had breast cancer so can't take HRt, has found Citalopram really helped her terrible flushes and night sweats and with very few side effects. My work colleague who is on Citalopram is in her mid 60s and has actually lost weight, is sleeping better and has more energy.
Do seek advice from a meno clinic if you can - there are things that you can try.
DG x
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Dear All, I have just woken up with hot flushes and anxiety……A week or so ago I ran out of red clover, it being christmas and all……maybe it is connected to that. I am going to see a specialist on thursday…I figure I'm worth it. I just want to feel normal again.
Thank heavens for this forum. I just pray I can sleep tonight.
Sally Gxx
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Hi SallyG
Are you peri menopausal? If so your hormones will be fluctuating and this can result in flushes etc coming and going. If you are post menopause then I'm afraid the hormone levels drop gradually over a couple of years and then bottom out. Some women don't get the meno symptoms until the oestrogen levels really drop low.
Red clover and other isoflavines/phytoestrogens in your diet are supposed to help but I didn't find they did. I think if your flushes etc are very mild and infrequent then Red Clover might help a bit. Go back on the Red Clover and see if it makes a different otherwise your best option is HRT. You may be lucky and find your flushes etc. only last a few months and settle - many women sail through their menopause in this way.
Do read up all the info to the left of this screen to get clued up. Dg x
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I suffered with extreme hot flushes right away when i was going through peri so about the years. Gp wouldn't put me on any firm of hrt until i stopped my periods for at least a year. By the time i finished my periods i also was suffering from no sec drive at all, memory loss, clumsiness and soaking wet flushes. Hrt helped right away. Thank goodness i was taking citalipram already for anxiety or i think i would of seriously committed suicide. I already tried that when i was first going through peri. I still struggle and really feel for all of you.
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Hi everyone I am new to this site and at my wits end. Hot flushes and anxiety. On hrt t but intoleraant to progesteroñe. On two monthky eostrogen then northisterone for 12 days. Is anyone else on this ? Appreciate any replys please x
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Hi janiet and welcome to MM
Do start your own thread so more ladies can support you. You might do better on Utrogestan for the progesterone - it's bio identical, the same as our own hormones, so is kinder. DG x
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I'm a 45 year old woman with no kids and have just returned to work after almost 6 weeks off to help get my extreme peri menopausal symptoms under control. I've been struggling since October .As an educated woman I am horrified at how little I knew about the menopause and about how little it's spoken about and about how badly it affected me. I stopped sleeping, had night sweats that left me soaked and had up to 15 soaking not flushes in every waking hour swiftly followed by an ice cold flush. I genuinely thought I was going mad.
I saw three doctors at my surgery whose solutions ranged from 'Japanese women cope with this on their own eat more soya' to 'I don't prescribe HRT' to you 'need anti depressants (I was tearful but didn't cry when I was told this)'. Finally on my fourth trip I met a doctor who not only cared about helping me but listenes to me and more importantly offered help and stuck with me. I cannot tell you how important it is to persist and find a doctor that is medically competent , willing to help and able to listen ......really listen. She was amazing. I am now on an SSRI which i know is also used for depression BUT has known benefits for menopause ....it took 31 days but literally overnight on day 31 I went from 15 hot flushes a day to none ( I was still off sick) and night sweats stopped completely. I was given a sleeping tablet to get me some sleep. Back at work now the not sweats are back about three times a day....which is due to stress but my blood pressure is down so I'm about. To try HRT.
PLEASE don't put up with symptoms you feel are too much, help is out there, we just have to be persistent in securing it.....don't give up. I am proof that the right help makes a huge difference. I Thought I'd lost my smile but it's badck
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Hello P42893 and welcome to the forum.
This whole menopause struggle came as a shock to me as well. I clearly remember my GP asking me if I was experiencing night sweats because at 49 that was likely and I honestly thought he was mad. When he said that some ladies require HRT I am ashamed to say I assumed these women were being a bit wimpy and a few sweats couldn't possibly warrant hormone treatment. Well nearly ten years later I have certainly learned my lesson!
I agree with you that as an intelligent person I am amazed at my level of ignorance. Even when my symptoms began I believed I knew about the menopause, turns out I knew diddly squat!
The advice and support provided by the wonderful ladies on this forum have helped me so much and I know you'll be helped too.
Take care and keep posting, you are not alone.
K.
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Hi All, first post to this forum. I am 47 and have a 7 year old daughter. Was confirmed as in the menopause 3 years ago, but only started getting hot flushes a couple of years ago. I have a fab doctor who went through all options. HRT at bottom of list as my mum has had breast cancer (she is fine now). Fluxotine (Prozac) was first on the list and worked extremely well, but I totally lost my sex drive so gave them up after a month. Have now got Clonidine Hydrochloride but have not tried them yet. Had a go at some herbal remedy but got bad stomach cramps (I have too much iron). Am now getting a big tube of fat around my belly! And very achy knees. Thank goodness I have a wonderful husband!!
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I seem to have the hot flushes under control - fingers crossed
It was suggested by my Doctor to take Sage so for the last month I have taken 2 capsules a day with my breakfast. At first I noticed that the hot flushes were not around anymore but just put it down to the fact that I was away on Holiday over the Easter Break, with no stress and relaxing but I'm back and Easter has gone and touch wood still no flushes.
It's worth a try if you are struggling - me I try anything!!
Hugs
:bighug:
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I get night sweats, and also am very sensitive to changes in temp. For example have just eaten a cooked meal and sweat pouring off me. I work in a hospital so it's always hot which doesn't help and can feel the beads of sweat running between my boobs! 😕
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Soggy bra! I remember that feeling well. I used to take a change of clothes into work with me. Hated that always damp feeling.
Taz x
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Being big busted get sweat rash under em too......oooh the joys!!!
Shaz x
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i have suffered for 2 years now with constant sweating hated going any where,was reccomended sage tablets OMG only used for a week so far have not had 1 sweat,now looking FORWARD to my holiday yippee
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Hi
Does anyone have an NHS doctor who has treated their symptoms with progesterone?
I have been reading that it is a first line treatment in France and commonly used in the USA, with less side effects and better cardio and bone health also.
Best wishes
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Hi cbj2605
I think it is widely accepted that oestrogen is the best treatment for reducing flushes etc. and protecting bones and heart. Progesterone is actually the hormone that many of us have difficulty with (negative side effects) so taking this on it's own is not ideal. I suspect you have been reading about Utrogestan (micronised bio identical progesterone) which is used in conjunction with oestrogen to ensure the womb lining is kept thin when treating meno symptoms - one wouldn't take this on it's own unless you are still producing plenty of oestrogen yourself. Progesterone on it's own wouldn't be any safer than other HRT combinations. You can certainly get Utrogestan on the NHS from your GP but you might need to print off the info from this site as many GPs are not up to speed about this. Here is the section on this site that explains about micronised progesterone : http://www.menopausematters.co.uk/to_progestogens.php
Alongside the Utrogestan one would use a daily dose of oestrogen as either pills, patches or gel as this would reduce meno symptoms and protect your bones and heart.
Do read up all the info on this site to get clued up. DG x
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I had a ceiling fan installed in the bedroom. My god, what a help that has been for the last 10 years. I even had it on in the winter. My other half has had to snuggle up under the duvet. But fair enough. I have to put up with the snoring, lol.
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I was on Hrt for 6years, came off them in February. been suffering with hot flushes and mood swings. Feel total drained as not sleeping well. just have bedroom window wide open and drink plenty of water.
having about 6 hot flushes during the day and at night 2 to 3. Feel rubbish
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Oh Twiggy58 - do start your own thread to get more support about this. Why did you come off HRT? DG x
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I have recently turned 50 (22 April) and about 2 weeks ago, I had a severe unexplained headache, which lasted for more than 2 day even after taking strong pain killers. Last night was horrible. I could hardly sleep. I started sweating and felt so weak. I couldn't wake up in the morning and while I slept again, It seems I fell into some deep sleep and had a terrible dream. In the dream, I became so sick, and could hardly move. I had my periods but for days, had no way of cleaning up. I woke up exhausted and then in the confusion of the symptoms of my dream and last night's experiences became even more anxious. That is the main reason I started searching for others experiences and how they managed to go through it. I am glad I found this forum. And here I am, feeling a lot much better in the sense that I am not alone, and that it is not some incurable disease but also in a way scared about how I would manage it I happen to be among those with severe symptoms. Last night was severe. :'( :'( :'(
But all in all, I have been immensely helped and my husband has somewhat understood what he couldn't this morning. He asked me how he could be of help and I emailed him the information on how husbands can help. I a glad I found this forum. I have sent a link to my female colleagues (all doctors, they had advised me to think young on telling them that old age seems to have set in). I am sure it will he helpful to them as well, as they are nearing this era. Thank you all for sharing your experiences!! I hope to do so when I find out what works for me :) :)
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Hi Olyd
Taz x :welcomemm:
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Hot flushes and nights sweats are awful.
The night sweats are happening to me every night now and causing me very disturbed sleep.
The hot flushes are making me feel obviously hot, but flustered and panicky.
I took up running just over a year ago and am now managing to run half marathons, running up til recently seemed to help me clear my brain fog and lethargy. I've had a few bad runs the last couple of weeks , yesterday I went running with my husband in the morning as normal and the hot flushes kept coming and making me feel flustered and sweat was pouring out of me like never before . I couldn't see clearly as it was in my eyes . By about three miles into our run we had to stop as I felt a little dizzy. I drank some water and carried on. I'm doing the Edinburgh half marathon at the end of this month and started to get all panicky and worried about if it happened then. Suddenly I couldn't breath properly and got all upset, had to stop and burst into tears. My poor hubby didn't quite know what to make of it all and asked me not to run on my own without my phone or in the countryside (which we do) on my own for a while. He has asked me to run less miles for a while and not to push myself so hard. Which seems sensible doesn't it ?? The problem is that I started running to keep my weight off (I lost six stone 2014/2015) and the sense of achievement has made me really happy and proud of myself. Now I'm struggling with eating ( craving everything) and if I'm not able to do my running (esp 1/2marathons) I'm just going to feel a failure.
I'm already worried and losing my confidence due to the hot flashes, panicking and memory loss . Running and losing weight were my success things, I don't want to lose them.
I've just started taking Clonedine 25mg and evening primrose oil, b12 and zinc I just hope they help. Thanks for listening xx
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I have just turned 53 and have had 6 weeks of hot flushes every hour or so, dripping with sweat and being woken up about 5 times during the night with them. I had regular periods until March so its all a bit sudden and shocking. I read up about natural remedies and tried Sage (400mg), also on the recommendation of six other people who had used it on the suppliers web site. It is one week later and my flushes have reduced to about two or three a day with no sweating at all and barely any heat. I notice them but they are much better. Fantastic. Actually I had no faith it at all so I really can't believe it. Apparently it is a mild phytoestrogen.
I started getting terrible headaches when the sweating was bad so I was drinking water constantly and they went away. You have to drink loads to replace all that sweat I think.
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I haven't tried any medication but I just drink plenty of water (minus side is that I have to pee a lot), if I have a bad night sweat I just go under the shower
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I have just turned 53 and have had 6 weeks of hot flushes every hour or so, dripping with sweat and being woken up about 5 times during the night with them. I had regular periods until March so its all a bit sudden and shocking. I read up about natural remedies and tried Sage (400mg), also on the recommendation of six other people who had used it on the suppliers web site. It is one week later and my flushes have reduced to about two or three a day with no sweating at all and barely any heat. I notice them but they are much better. Fantastic. Actually I had no faith it at all so I really can't believe it. Apparently it is a mild phytoestrogen.
I started getting terrible headaches when the sweating was bad so I was drinking water constantly and they went away. You have to drink loads to replace all that sweat I think.
Welcome Braveheart - your first post seems to have been missed by us.
Taz x :welcomemm:
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I am 53, 2 years post meno, and have been suffering increased meno symptoms for the last 18 months including soggy night sweats/daytime hot flushes etc. I'm not on HRT, only AD's for anxiety, and left my job in January due to stress/sleepless nights etc.
The overwhelming flushes/night sweats have subsided since leaving my job (stress-related?), so sleep has improved but is still disturbed :-\, however, since using a large 'cool gel pad' under my pillow at night, things are soooo much better! I wake up (mind whirring and warm!), slip my hand straight under my pillow, and position my neck and wrist on the pad, which instantly cools me down. If I'm really hot, I stick it across my tum for a few minutes, but I sometimes rapidly get too cold!
I'd recommend the pad to anyone, as they're not too expensive (£7 - £20) and widely available.
Hope this might be helpful info.
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Hi CreamTeaGirl. Thanks for the tip. Sorry that you are suffering from increased meno symptoms. This can happen as your oestrogen level gradually lowers. Have you considered HRT?
Taz x :welcomemm:
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Hi Taz
Did approach Dr re HRT, but he was reluctant to prescribe it, saying symptoms return when you come off it :P. Am trying to manage anxiety with AD's (Citalopram 10mg), but start a new part-time job this week after 6 months off, so will have to see how it goes!
Have to say this website has been a great help as, like so many others, I had no idea just how much menopause affects so many aspects of life, and now makes a lot of sense of what I went through in peri. I really think we should be told about all this, and have started a meno 'diary' for my daughter so she'll be fully aware of the joys that lie ahead!
CTG x
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Hi CreamTeaGirl - Your GP should not deny you HRT on the grounds the symptoms will come back. He should not have given ADs instead of HRT but some women do need an ADs alongside HRT. Quality of life is important and if you need to work then HRT may control flushes etc so will enable you to work well.
The new guidelines do recommend HRT as the first line of treatment so I would go back and insist you try HRT.
I have used HRT for many years and have taken breaks at various times - symptoms don't necessarily return at the same level and in fact if you come off at a quieter time in your life it is easier to cope and symptoms will possibly subside over a shorter time. DG x
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Thank you for your helpful thoughts Dancinggirl. I've been avidly reading threads re the pros & cons of HRT, and have an appointment with a GP on Mon (as anxiety is now back with a vengeance!), so will bring up the subject yet again because I'd prefer to be able to hold down a job, rather than feeling unable to cope with work as I do now, and HRT might just help.
As you say, quality of life is important....
CTG x
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Hi all! Haven't been on here for a while but thought I'd share how I'm coping ! My flushes were awful- I work as a building society cashier and the flushes would appear out of nowhere. My friend recommended menopace original so I thought sod it and gave them a go! They were brilliant- I now only get 1 flush a day on a bad day which is great! The tablets have helped a little with mood swings although I still wake up most days wanting to murder anyone that even looks at me the wrong way lol! 😳
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Thanks for the update lovesflorida! Glad you are still doing ok.
Taz x :foryou:
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not very well, I have a tower fan on all night which has caused other problems like dry eyes, tried sage but no luck - GP has suggested anti depressants but not sure I want to go down that route yet....
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Going to the frozen section in my local ASDA, it's heaven! ;D I've been asked several times if I need help ;D ;D ;D ;D My hot flashes are awful, before HRT I had one every five minutes and it got to the point they made me heave. Tried soya, isoflavones and other herbal remedies with red clover, black cocosh for three months and no improvement only thing that worked was BCP. Now I'm getting them mild in the daytime and in the evening a couple an hour. I have difficulty regulating as I have Raynaud Syndrome and if I try cooling down it triggers it! So I sit around in shorts and sleeveless tops with thick socks and gloves ;D
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I'm on antidepressants, not for depression but for hot flushes. It's working brilliantly. It has caused some debate on another thread but it's working for me for now. I'm taking sertraline and the effect was immediate. As soon as I took the first tablet the hot flushes stopped and no night sweats. Sometimes I do still get a little bit warm, but nothing like before. ADs have side effects though and they were bad for the first week, I felt nauseous, headachey and generally mind altered. But I'm ok now and enjoying life without all that sweating!
I also avoid hot drinks to some extent as I think that brings one on, but I can't give up my cuppa teas altogether, that would be too miserable. Layers on the bed, layers of clothes, for taking on and off. Riding my bike in the cool breeze - now that's relaxing. :)
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Hi Everyone.
I'm new to the site and would like some help.
I have been suffering from flushes for around 18 months or so bit recently they have become unbearable. As have the night sweats. I'm soaking wet, smelly, constantly showering or standing in the garden to cool down, I don't sleep, I'm depressed, tearful and bad tempered. All the usual symptoms.
I went to my GP last week who was wonderful. She has directed me to this site and I have another appointment next eeek to see her again to discuss what I would like to do about my symptoms.
My question is this. There has been so much bad publicity about HRT should I worry about taking it. Have many of you had good results or any side effects.
I really want this to stop but I am worrying about taking HRT.
Help please.
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Hi and welcome to MM Fgreg24
HAve you introduced yourself on the new members section? More ladies will respond if you do.
HRt can be great and it sounds to me as though you need to give it a try. You have everything to gain and nothing to loose by trying it. Ignore the negative press - 5 years of HRT in your 50s will protect your heart and bones for the long term, it will reduce meno symptoms and can give you your life back. The risks are very small up to the age of 60 so don't be frightened. We keep saying here on this site that ‘quality of life' is everything.
Read up all the info on this site to get clued up - you've clearly got a good GP so you should go back and ask to try HRT - perhaps Femoston 1/10 to start with as this is a good one with a kinder progesterone that suits many women well. It is sequential so you'll get a bleed each month but if you have been more than 12 months without a period you could move to a conti version after 3-6 months if this HRT has suited you.
It is often trial and error before finding an HRT regime that suits you but once you start you may find you feel loads better within a couple of weeks.
Go for it girl. Keep us posted DG x
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Hi ,
Im new from today and due to my recent issues, my husband and i searched and found this forum...hooorrraaayyyy
Anyway about 6 weeks ago, i had to change my Hrt as my previous Hrt had been stopped.
I have lived with SP Ms for nearly 14 years, so i started taking the replacement/ new Hrt which i was advised by the Gp,was fine, same, no proplem.
Around the same time i started getting ( they called it) restless leg syndrome.
I would go,to bed and after about an idea, my knees would spasm and twist. This went on for up to 4 hours each night.
My Gp put me on a different neuro,drug ( was using Gabapentin, put on Pregablin) .
Therefore for the first week the Gabapentin and
Pregablin were both in my system. I lost majority of my sight in first week, not much feeling in fingers, left arm, dizzy etc but the legs werecsame when i got to bed.
I was on Pregablin for 4 weeks when i spoke to Gp and was told to change times that i was taking it.
On one of my sitting downstairs after getting out of bed in agony, i discovered that one of the many side effects was 'knee jerks'
Anyway it went on with no change. No advise from emergency locom, other Gp's as my Gp was by then on leave.
By 6th, the hot flushes were getting worse, i had a nasty body odour.
Im now on 7th week and the point to my post...Hrt is fine when you have one that works but when it doesnt work, the hot flushes overheat body, the MS gets angry , really angry.
Im waiting for a Gp,to call me back today to advice of a different Hrt.
My annoyance is, myself and my sister are with the same Gp. My sister also,has MS ( RRMS) and last year she had such bad hot flushes that she fell,and broke her ankle . This was EXACTLY the same Hrt change etc, etc.
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Hi and welcome to Mm dizzy one.
I would start your own thread so more ladies can respond and help.
If you can tell us your age, when your periods stopped and the HRT you were originally on and the new one you have been trying, this will really help us to support you better.
Do browse around the site - particularly look under TREATMENTS at the top of this page - get really clued up about your options so you can discuss things better with your GP. Sadly GPs are rarely up to speed on the various HRT options so it's best to bring a print out from this site so you can suggest what you would like to try. It will be a trial and error process till you find the one that suits.
I suspect you were on one of the older types of HRT that are being discontinued as newer, more natural, types are generally better.
Adjusting to a change in HRT can bring problems and as you have MS this must be particularly difficult. There may well be other MS sufferers posting on MM who will be able to give you more advice as well.
DG x
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Hot flushes
The hot flush, or flash, is well known as the classic menopausal symptom and affects 60–85% of menopausal women. Hot flushes and sweats are called vasomotor symptoms and vary immensely in both their severity and duration; for many women, they occur occasionally and do not cause much distress, but for about 20% they can be severe and can cause significant interference with work, sleep and quality of life. Women are affected by vasomotor symptoms on average for about 2 years but, for about 10%, symptoms can continue for more than 15 years.
Hot flushes usually last 3–5 minutes and are thought to be caused by a change in the temperature-controlling part of the brain.Normally, there is a daily pattern of rises and falls in your body temperature, being lowest at about 3am and highest in the early evening. These small changes are not normally noticed, but a menopausal woman may flush with every temperature rise, whether these are normal changes or not – for example, moving between areas of different temperature or having a hot drink – because of a change in the setting of the temperature control centre in your brain; your body thinks that it is overheating even when it isn't. To try to cool your body down, a variety of chemical reactions cause the blood vessels in the skin to open up, giving the sensation of a rush of heat, and sweat glands release sweat to dissipate heat.
It is believed that the changes in various hormone levels that occur around the time of the menopause, lead to the change in the setting of the temperature control centre, but the exact underlying mechanism is still unclear.
Other factors that can also cause flushes include being overweight, alcohol, excess caffeine, spicy foods, monosodium glutamate and some medications. Eating a healthy diet and losing weight if necessary can be helpful. Other simple measures that can help include:
• wearing cotton clothing rather than man-made fibres
• wearing loose thin layers of clothing rather than thick tight-fitting clothes
• keeping your bedroom temperature fairly cool at night – either leave a door or window open or consider a fan (partner permitting of course!).
Flushes affect every woman differently and, for many, no specific treatments will be required. When flushes are embarrassing, disruptive and affecting your quality of life, then help is available and your doctor will give you an individualised treatment plan – we are all unique!
Headaches, palpitations (sensation of heart racing) and dizziness can be associated with vasomotor symptoms. Excess caffeine can worsen palpitations, so take coffee, tea and caffeinated soft drinks in moderation.
Tell us what works for you.
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Hello Lisa, I see this is your first post. :welcomemm:
Did you want to post something about hot flushes? Most of us have had or are having experience of this :hotflash:
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:) :)
After 18 months of hot flushes which were becoming unbearable,I tried HRT this turned me into a depressed gibbering wreck - I tried 2 different sorts and never want to feel like that again, In fact I was prescribed anti-depressants to get me back to 'normal' (whatever that is in the menopause!!!) That sorted the misery, but still several hot flushes a day and about 5 or 6 night sweats which woke me up every night I was beginning to feel at my wits end!!! I must admit I would try anything which will
a) SHIFT WRINKLES
OR
b) STOP MY MENO SYMPTOMS
It would not matter how ridiculous it is, I am there, headstands in the local park/ice cold showers/ tap dancing naked in the high street - I'd try it just to feel better!!
HOWEVER!!! a friend of mine recommended high strength (1000mg) starflower oil capsules ;D ;D ;D IT HAS WORKED!!! I AM SO HAPPY I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO!!! Down to about 1 flush a day and that is only if I am flustered!! Now sleeping almost through the night!!
I know each of us are different, and it may not work for everyone, but after about 10 days I really noticed the difference and a month later all is still well!
l would also like to say that reading this forum has helped me enormously, and thank you to all you lovely ladies who have made me realise I am not alone... It has been a real turning point. Thanks once again xx
Im out to buy this tomorrow
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Hi everyone, I haven't been around for ages, but started re-reading this thread yesterday. I saw that someone mentioned that antihistamine tablets helped her with her hot flushes. I thought it was worth a try - so yesterday I took one, and didn't have a single hot flush that day or night! First time for absolutely ages.
Anyone else tried that?
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Don't believe it when "experts" say hot flushes only last for a couple of years. I've had them for over 20 years. I'm 67 now and had a brief respite when I was on Tibolone, but had to come off it in July after I had a TIA (stroke). Now the flushes are just as bad, I can't sleep. my sex life is ruined and I'm severely depressed. I've tried everything in the past and nothing worked. Any new ideas that won't interfere with Clopidogrel or Statins???
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Hi Jenni and welcome to MM
I totally understand - the menopause isn't something you 'get over', it's ongoing.
I am 61 and stopped HRT over a year ago now. I do find my flushes are worse when I am stressed and a good nights sleep is now in the distant past. I do a lot of brisk walking and Mindful Meditation which helps me with stress and fatigue but I have simply had to adjust my life to cope with the irritating things that meno throws at us. I did do fine on HRt for many years but I found the side effects became more and more troublesome and quite frankly the side effects were outweighing the benefits.
SEX - well, do get some local oestrogen e.g. Vagifem, as this will help restore and maintain the vaginal area and help with bladder issues as well. This is very low dose so is very safe and can be used for the rest of your life if need be. I find it is essential to use lots of lubrication when having sex as well. Using a vaginal moisturiser daily to help maintain the flora balance in the vaginal area is also essential - I use SYLK but there are other good products e.g. YES vaginal moistursers. AS for ‘libido' - well that is difficult - feeling relaxed, desirable and in the mood is something that has to be worked on with your partner and of course if you are sleep deprived and feeling low then that is really tough.
If you are depressed then trying an AD or SRRI is perhaps worth pursuing, these might help with sleep as well, although that can be trail and error. I occasionally take a Nytol to get a better night but I often spend many hours in the night doing Mindful Meditation, telling myself that it really doesn't matter whether I sleep or not. IF I haven't had enough exercise during the day then I do find it more difficult to sleep. Reassessing your diet can also help. Try avoiding dairy and drinking Soya milk or other alternatives instead? Eat small amounts often. For me the brisk walking is my saviour. Perhaps find a gently exercise class e.g. yoga?
I would see your GP - write down all your issues and ask what they would suggest might help. Ask for the Vagifem and enquire about any SRRI options. Perhaps ask for some CBT as this can be really helpful. I believe it is about learning to manage the challenging meno symptoms and having strategies that, may not cure, but may help how you feel. DG x
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Thanks Dancinggirl. It's good to know someone else understands how I feel. Most people laugh when I say I've had severe hot flushes etc. for 20 years. They seem to think I'm exaggerating!! If only!! It just seems so unfair that some women get no problems at all.
However, to be more positive my husband and I have a good diet, walk quite a lot and have just started a Mindfulness and Meditation course with U3A. We've only had 2 sessions and he has found it helpful (he fell asleep, but that might be because I'm keeping him awake half the night tossing and turning). So far I haven't found it helpful, although I am going to give it a bit longer.
Also, through this website, I've just got some tiny samples of YES and today I have made an appointment with one of our GP's to find out if anything can be prescribed for the night sweats. The lack of libido as you say, is difficult to come to terms with, although I do have a very understanding and loving husband.
Pardon my ignorance but what is Vagifem, would the oestrogen in it not be the same as being on HRT which I can't have? Also are AD and SRRI some sort of anti depressant? I don't understand what the initials stand for.
I am making a long list of questions for the GP, but don't know how I'll fit it all into the allotted 10 minutes.
Thanks again for all the helpful suggestions.
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Hi Jenni
The Mindful Meditation can take a great deal of practise to be effective - it is a type of Cognitive Behavioural therapy that is proving very helpful to many people, so I'm pleased to hear you are trying this. U3A is a great organisation to be part of - I fully intend to get involved with this when I retire and have more time. I am a tour guide and get groups from the U3A on my tours - they are always such great fun. Clearly you and your husband are very proactive people.
Vagifem is a local oestrogen pessary you insert in the vagina and it releases a very, very low dose locally, so is not absorbed systemically - you should be able to use this without any risk but your GP may want check this with you consultant. Pleased you are trying the vaginal moisturisers - they can really help.
Yes, ADs and SRRIs are antidepressants but many of these are often used, and can be very helpful, for meno symptoms - do look under TREATMENTS on this site to find out more. Citolapram and similar SRRIs can be very helpful I believe but, as I mentioned, it can be trial and error.
Write everything down for your GP appointment - I find it speeds things up when time is short, helps you to focus on the key things you need to get sorted and if there isn't enough time he/she will have your written notes so they can possibly get back to you by phone if need be.
Good luck and keep us posted. DG x
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Ladies I need advice and I don't have anyone to ask - I am really worried and confused about my flushes. :-\
I get all sorts of hot flushes - sometimes its when I am hot but other times it's really odd things like just now I started eating (scoffing pistachios!) and my face went red for a bit.
I also get it from being stressed or flustered or literally hearing my name mentioned at work - is this normal for hot flushes
it's like the smallest thing will set it off, never been so sensitive to it before but it seems like any emotion can provoke a red face
I am 46 and def. menopausal
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FanofF :welcomemm:ans
What you are describing is typical for menopause flushes.
Read up all the info on this site to get clued up. Start your own thread and tell us everything we need to know e.g. how your cycle is right now, any other health issues etc? Do look at lifestyle issues first e.g. diet and exercise and relaxation techniques.
HRT could solve your problems but you need to see your doctor to rule out thyroid problems and to get an FSH level which might indicate where you are in our meno journey. Blood tests are not reliable when diagnosing menopause so your GP should go by your symptoms really. Look under ‘treatments' on this site as well so you know what to ask for.
Keep posting. DG x
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Morning all, my story with hot flushes bagan (I realised just now) over 10 years ago. I can actually remember the exact moment. I'd arrived at the hairdressers. It was cold out, But i wasn't rushed or late, I'd driven there so was feeling collected and calm and not over dressed for the weather etc and within a minute of sitting down to wait I can vividly remember very suddenly getting hotter and hotter and HOTTER. And wet! Where was all this sweat coming from??? The more I unrobed and sweated, the more I began to panic.....and so on.... thought my head was going to explode. I was scrabbling for tissues to mop me up, and pulling my clothes away from me as I could feel them getting wet. Checking the seat I was sitting on to see if I was leaving a wet bum mark!! The panic!
I can remember it happening to me a while later, whilst I was waiting for someone...an older (ha!) lady passing by stopped and mortifyingly, for someone who thought she was much younger and no where near "that age", offered me gentle words that it would pass, and wasn't it horrible........
Since then they've got worse and worse and worse over the years.
I have tried everything over the years, sage, starflower caps, meno suppliments, black cohosh, redclover, I'm sure many others too. VitB6 And evening primrose oil I took for years.
I tried citalopram a few years ago on Drs advice. Helped for a while. Increase dose helped for another while, as did the first hrt I tried (I do know which it was but I can't remember the name) .....I take hrt to help with "bulk" menopause symptoms now but without doubt what I cannot cope with without hrt are the hot sweats and flushes.
I have been put on Angelique in the last few weeks......and for the first time since I can remember I am cool!! (There's always a downside...I'm bleeding again right now! Fingers crossed it will level out and I can deal). But oh to be cool, even If it's short lived.
Anyway, that was just to say I sympathise and empathise with everyone of you! It's horrible and takes over your life, but this is my tip.......
No help whatsoever ever if you're out and about, but if I am home and feeling hot and sweaty, I lie the wrong way up on my bed, Remove anything constricting and prop my feet higher than my head on the headboard or stacked pillows. My hand and feet always feel (even!) hotter than the rest of me, so I put my hot hands splayed on my stomach and I can visualise the heat flowing out of my hands to my stomach and dispersing around me....and out through my head and skin... .breathe deep through your stomach and imagine the heat draining out of your feet and legs.
It can work for me.
Another thing I realise is, it's contrasts of hot to cold or vice versa that affect me most (even minute temperature changes). So even at my hottest I've realised over the years that whilst it's tempting to be desperate to cool down fast, what actually then happens is as soon as I go back to inside I sweat more....
I can't control it I know. But being aware helps maybe. Interestingly I find whilst I do get sweats and flushes wherever and whenever, I feel better when the weather is warm or hot......nothing worse than sweating and dripping when chilled. I used to keep our bathroom at home cool, knowing I'd sweat in the morning after my shower. I now realise it's better if the bathroom is not frosty cold and my shower is only slightly warm and def not hot. Less contrast. (I still bloody sweat!!! It's not miracle. But it helps I think😏)
Oh and another little tip, I always carry hair bobbles and clips....if I can stop my hair from becoming saturated and dripping around my neck and temples by fastening it up as soon as I start to sweat, when I do cool down I feel so much better.
Ultimately I know nothing has really worked for me long term (yet! I'm still trying! And hopeful on this, new for me, Angelique) but those are my tips
Maybe some of that will help a little bit, fellow sweaty ones!! 😏
Good luck all.xx
(I'm pretty new at this forum and I realise I keep writing the equivalent of war and peace in anything I post or reply to🙄 I've got the opposite of writers block! I'm so taken aback to have a place to let this all out to, without driving my friends insane (as I just don't seem to k ow anyone who's struggled this much) that it's too tempting to share and join in.....
I promise I'll start to reign it in. But this topic is so close to my heart!!!!!)
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Me again!
Just went for my shower and remembered - Something else made a bit of a difference to me when I finally worked it out...
However dry your skin might feel, don't use a "heavy" moisturiser. On your body or face. I get dry irritated skin (from sweating? Or "just" menopause!) but find the lighter and least I put on my skin the better I feel
Try Epsom salt baths (not too hot!) to moisturise and sooth. And just a very light lotion if needed
Anything heavier and I sweat more and skin seems clammier for longer (it blocks the pores I guess)
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LizzyD - welcome to MM - what great posts - thank you for sharing your experience.
This will be helpful and reassuring to many women.
Nobody prepares us for what most of us experience when meno hits - it can be so debilitating and difficult.
Good luck with you HRT - hope it works for you for the longer term.
DG x
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Thanks dancing girl,
You are right about the not being prepared!
But then lots of people don't have such a debilitating experience....different people, different bodies, different lives.
I know I had was lucky in that compared to some stories, I had great experiences of pregnancy and childbirth for example
We all need to be kinder to ourselves and others. No one ever has it all, and definitely not all the time. We all need different help at different times for different reasons. Try not to judge I guess, as you never have any idea what's going on with other people, trivial or otherwise.
(I'm not always so nice or calm! The little judgey, not so nice bit of me always manages to escape when I'm out, for example, with a bunch of young, smart, glamorous and clever young things at one of my husbands work events, and I have a killer flush and sweat. I smile sweetly, try to pretend I'm oblivious, and can't help but dare them to judge.. Can't help I'm thinking I may be older, pinker and dripping with sweat, but I'm also solvent, more experienced, care less, and know that at some point "YOU'LL GET YOURS!!!" 🤣)
Xxx
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LizzyD
I can so relate to everything you have just said. :D ;D ;D. DG x
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Little pleasures DG - you have to take them where you can! 😉😂😂
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Hi back again for some more information/consolation?
I have started HRT (Evorel Patch and progesterone pills), I think my mini (over and done with quickly) hot flushes ( :hotflash:) and night sweats are getting better but I am still struggling with facial flushes.
The flushes happen with extreme emotions or with heat - my face (cheeks, nose) goes extremely red (I think its looks horrible) and is very painful. Can anyone please let me know if this could be menopause or not? If I stay in the situation my face will stay red, otherwise it will calm down after a few hours - basically I go to bed if this happens which is not a great way to live your life!
Any thoughts would be great because I am unable to tolerate hot rooms and central heating at the moment.
FoF
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Im not coping they are doing my head in, cant sleep because of them, it can be minus 2 white with frost n still be too hot , still throw the covers off still using a summer quilt , they did stop for a while but don't know why , but started again , and doin my had in x
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Ladies, I so sympathise with you.
I have tried absolutely everything over the years and no one can understand how bloody miserable and horrible it is when you struggle with flushes and sweats like that unless they've been there themselves....
The only thing I would say is, I am on my 5th different type of HRT now.
I've been on this one (Angelique) 5&1/2 months now and - touch wood - only have a few, comparatively very mild flushes and a bit of sweating from time to time.....
I'm obviously not saying this hrt is the perfect hrt for everyone. Not at all. Just hoping it might help to know that it's worth keep trying to find the right formulation to help you. Unless you can't consider hrt, persevere! .......it took me a long while. Every single day, at some point I am amazed that I'm not pouring with sweat, changing my clothes, and agitated and thoroughly miserable. It's still a wonderful surprise to feel “normal†(sort of!!!😳 my kids and family might have something to say on that subject!)
Good luck. Sending you all a hug x
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Before starting HRT, which stopped my flushes and night sweats altogether, I suffered terribly from both.
The best thing I did for night sweats was wear a long-sleeved merino top. It wicked away the sweat, didn't smell, left me dry and washed really well time after time. Really fantastic and well worth the money. Wearing bottoms would work too. Obviously not the best remedy for hot summer nights but I found I could wear them comfortably for most of the year.
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Hi everyone, I dont have flashes, but my body heats up as soon as I'm laying in bed and wakes me up and can't sleep anymore cause it lasts all night. Is it a flash? I never sweat so it takes a long time for my body cools down. I'm allmost 4 weeke on HRT but it doesnt help yet.
Anyone? :)
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Hi and welcome to MM MartineH
Have you introduced yourself on the ‘New Members' section on the forum?
To help you we need a bit more info e.g. age, how your periods are etc.
What you are experiencing is common for menopause - sometimes flushes are simply an inability to control our body temperature.
There could be other reasons for you symptoms, so if HRT isn't helping it could be your thyroid - so this should be checked. DG x
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Hi everyone I'm new to this forum and so glad I found it...I have had hot flushes now for the past year I have tried nearly everything, sage, black cohosh, herbal mixtures from a herbalist shop and so on nothing is helping. I have the hot flushes throughout the day so at work I look like a wet rag and at night, the night sweats i'm in and out of the bathroom to shower just to feel cool again. I have the windows wide open much to my husband's annoyance...I have been to my GP numerous times and the last time I visited him a few months back I was at the end of my tether he prescribed me anti depressants which he said alot of his patients are taking it and have had good results...hot flushes reduced considerably.....I came out off the surgery with the prescription went to the pharmacy, while waiting for the medication i was reading up on the side effects and then the withdrawal symptoms which most people had once they tried to come off them.....hence after reading all that info and speaking to family and friends i have not taken them and I'm still in the same position and still have not found anything that has helped me with these dreaded flushes....:hotflash: :hotflash: Help!!!
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Hi and welcome Fee1968
Your GP is not treating you correctly, HRT is the front line treatment for menopause symptoms - NOT ADs!!! It is courageous that ADs are dished out so readily without proper warnings about the side effects.
ADs are for depression and will not protect your heart and bones for the long term but HRT will.
How old are you? Have your periods stopped or are they still erratic?
Do read up all the info on this site to get clued up, print off the suff you need to show the GP e.g. the TREATMENTS sections, and make another appointment to get HRT. Do mention that the NICE guideline for treatment of menopause is HRT.
I assume you are not a smoker, overweight and have a reasonably good lifestyle regarding exercise and diet? Unless there is a strong family history of breast cancer then there should be on reason for you not to have HRT.
I often suggest women try something like Femoston 1/10 sequential HRT first - this will give a monthly bleed and allow you to see if the progesterone suits you or not. Once you are post menopause then you can switch to a conti, non bleed, HRT regime if you wish.
You were wise not to take the ADs - we are here to support you. HRT could well give you your quality of life back and the risks are tiny - Being overweight or a smoker gives far higher risks than HRT.
Keep posting DG x
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These hot flushes are completely ruining my life. I am in peri (although I haven't had a period since the hot flushes started so fingers well and truly crossed) and have been managing so far with diet and exercise. At one point things got so bad that I tried HRT and that just made matters 10 times worse for me to the point of becoming a danger to myself and others!
The hot flushes aren't so bad in and of themselves (yet) but they are disrupting my sleep so badly that I had a permanent headache and all my other symptoms were getting worse and worse due to lack of sleep. I ended up having to have a couple of weeks off work it got so bad. The doctor has prescribed me antidepressants and they have definitely helped me with sleep, and the hot flushes seem to have lessened. I have gone back to work but I am now a walking zombie due to the meds, I can't focus or concentrate properly, I zone out all the time and become so tired half way through my shift that I have to have a nap on my meal break.
Work are very supportive and we are looking into me not having to wear a uniform or other things to try and improve conditions for me at work, but that is no use if I am not functioning well enough to do my job in the first place.
Treatments just seem like a minefield of things, with no one thing working for everyone and I really can't just be off work until I find something that works or they stop - that could take years!
Anyway, I just came here for a moan really amongst people who understand! It makes me feel a little better knowing I am not alone in this!
Hugs to all
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HI, New to the site so getting a little confused how to write on here. My hot flushes are a total nightmare, I have them every 40 to 60 minutes all night, and this is whilst using HRT patches. Each one wakes me up so my sleep is severely affected. This has been going on now for 6.5 years! I'm at my whit's end, so much rubbish sleep and it doesn't help as I also have ME and MS. My doctor tried upping my oestrogen dose by giving me up to two extra Oestrogen patches last year, but this ended in me having periods every two weeks, I was then referred to the hospital for endless tests for womb cancer - all clear, but then I was taken off the extra oestrogen to stop the periods returning, so after a brief period of reduced flushes I am back to endless heat. I'm turning 60 this year and really don't know what to do as no one seems to know why I have so many hot flushes, do they continue for ever? I've tried all the alternative supplements, acupuncture, reduced alcohol, caffeine etc but nothing seems to touch them. Please has anyone any idea what I could do, I really start to feel totally desperate some days and I absolutely dread going to bed each night?
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Hi,
I started the menopause 3 years ago at age 45 after a having both ovaries and fallopian tubes removed, and immediately started with hot flushes. They were never extreme to the point where I would sweat profusely, but I would go quite red, and feel that uncomfortable tingle. They would disturb my sleep most nights, and would certainly make wearing make-up somewhat of a challenge.
I decided that HRT would not be for me, due to the fact that I had suffered from endometriosis, as the oestrogen in HRT would possibly cause that to return (amongst other considerations).
I decided to try and increase my levels of exercise (nothing mad, just a bit of yoga and walking mostly), and to also cut out caffeine completely, as well as trying to eat more healthily, and cut right down on alcohol.
I noticed a DRASTIC reduction in flashes immediately after cutting out the caffeine, almost to the point where they were non-existent, and still remain so to this day. I personally think this was the biggest
I eat less sugary foods, and fewer of the bad/starchy types of carbs (white bread, white pasta, potatoes etc - the ones that are more likely to spike blood sugar levels). Whenever I do have anything like this, about 30 mins to an hour afterwards, I can feel a slight flush coming on. The same goes for when I have alcohol, or very spicy food. So, I'm pretty sure that avoiding these things is definitely helping.
If ever I do have a few nights of disturbed sleep because of very light warm flushes, I have found that taking a Nytol Original tablet has helped massively (I take just one of the recommended does of two tablets, and this seem sto do the trick).
Has anyone else had any similar results, or tried the same?
Another question (which nobody seems to be bale to answer) is: How long does surgical menopause last for?
Thanks.
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I started with horrendous sweats and flushes almost exactly 2 years ago aged 50. Worst at night, I would pour sweat and drench the bed through to the mattress and it would wake me up at least 5 and often more times per night. As those of you who have been through this know, the lack of sleep turns you into a confused, exhausted, non-functioning wreck. Then day times, flushes throughout the day and occasional break-outs in big sweats. Whole face down to soles of feet up to 20 times a day. I saw a highly-qualified Traditional Chinese Medicine Doctor who prescribed herbs which worked perfectly for 2 months. Then the sweats started coming back and the TCM doctor said he needed to change the prescription but he had moved to the south coast so it wasn't realistic for me to be commuting down there every 2 - 3 months as my body continued to change.
Getting through each day was like a marathon with a body that was completely haywire, so I went to the GP who prescribed Oestrogel which wasn't effective for me at 1 pump. 2 pumps covered so much of my body to apply that it wasn't practical and I was having to put it on my arms as well as legs which concerned me because close to breasts. So I asked if there was an alternative. He put me on Evorel patches which are quite large and these both didn't stick well on me and didn't stop the sweats completely even at a high dose. I had been told that I needed Progesterone cover for cancer risk if going to continue with oestrogen and was told that I could get a Mirena coil which was low-dose, in the area needed and would bypass liver metabolism. This seemed a safer route than oral progesterone so I booked an appointment to get one inserted.
I had had a Mirena previously for contraception, with no problems, but this time the insertion was long, violent, painful and bloody. Apparently as we reach menopause, our cervix can harden making this process more difficult and he had a lot of difficulty getting it in and had to force a way through with instruments. I went back for a follow-up scan to make sure it was in the right place and at that time the doctor suggested I try Estradot 100 if I was not getting good results from the Evorel. The Estradot patches are smaller and stick well and gave me instant relief from the sweats and flushes. Since it was working well, I experimented with dosing, moving down from 100 to 50 over the next few months and even at 50 with the Estradot, did not have any sweats or flushes which meant I had about 15 months without the vasomotor symptoms, up until 3 months ago.
Other things I noticed about perimenopause/menopause was that even after sweats had stopped, I was having very broken and poor quality sleep. I also needed to get up to pee twice a night.
My thinking is and was confused and I was unable to remember things and cope with any conflict, normal sorts of things like work or builders that I would normally handle fine.
After over a year of feeling completely unable to cope and useless, I spoke with a friend who is slightly older and she said it sounded like I was depressed and that could also happen in menopause. I looked back and realised that I had had low mood and felt despondent and also inexplicably fearful for over a year. I was really shocked. I had no idea menopause could cause increased anxiety and depression. It was a huge relief in a way, as I thought there was something wrong with me and I was cracking up but had so many more pressing things to try to sort that hadn't focused on the effect this state of mind was having. I feel deeply sorry for the billions of women who have had similar experiences and had to go through this without information and support, who will have been labelled bonkers, bad-tempered, losing-it, etc. Even with the internet and today, there is just not enough solid, reliable and detailed information out there including through GPs.
I also had spotting after the Mirena was inserted, which stopped after about 5 months, but then about a year in, I started regular bleeding, sometimes light and sometimes heavy, but almost constant. I also had stomach pain. The stomach pains became extreme and the bleeding became constant and very heavy for about 4 months so I had an ultrasound which showed the Mirena to be in the correct place but they noticed that the removal cord which should be at least 2cm long exposed, had almost disappeared and they could just see about 1mm. So likelihood the Mirena had moved and would not be able to be removed normally.
I asked for it to be removed as I had been in such pain and was concerned it might be doing damage because of the bleeding, but the Family Planning and Sexual Health service who did the scan and follow-up said they didn't remove them and I would need to go back to the GP to arrange this. There was no urgency as they could not see it had perforated anything from the scan.
I booked to see the GP and the day I went to see her, I was in agony and bleeding heavily. She took some swabs and bloods and referred me for another scan which is finally happening next week - only 5 months wait. Personally I think the coil has moved and is doing damage because I now have achey pains in my lower back, dull pain down the back of one leg, during sex and twinges. I also get occasional lower abdominal cramps which are like seizures, not like menstrual cramps. I will update when I get results from my new scan next week, but I have been cleared for everything else so I can only think this is complications with the Mirena. Even after having had a very good experience with a Mirena for 6 years for contraception earlier in life, I would urge caution on anyone considering one after 50 and to do your research and ask questions, including who will take it out as the NHS does not seem to have sorted this. I was also not informed of the risk of it moving when it was inserted but once you start researching, it isn't that rare and the doctors are meant to tell you beforehand.
In the meantime, in January this year I started getting flushes and sweats again. Maybe 10 a day, 3-4 per night, so not quite as severe as originally. Still on Estradot 50 and with the Mirena which had both been working to prevent these symptoms previously. I don't know why they stopped working but I was sent to a menopause clinic where I was prescribed Northisterone which had the benefit of very quickly stopping the bleeding. I was prescribed 10mg per day and started on 5mg and then moved up to 10mg after about 10 days. At 5mg and 10mg, my sweats are no better. The only changes I have noticed are that I am able to fall asleep quicker most of the time, even though I wake up with a major sweat 1 -2 hours later and then again another 2 hours later. I feel marginally more positive about life in general and slightly better able to cope since starting the noresthisterone but my libido has completely disappeared and I get irritated when touched which is the first time in my life that I have experienced this. I don't know if this is the norethisterone or that the norestisterone has meant that the balance with my oestrogen is now off.
So now my plan is to experiment over the next month with adjusting the levels of my oestrogen and my progesterone which will take many months. For the next 2 weeks, I am going to raise my Estradot from 50 to 75 to see what this does. If that doesn't work, I will try reducing back to 50 for a week, and then try cutting in half and using 37.5 for 2 weeks. I don't know if this is advisable but have to try something. I have tried to research this on the web and asked the GP and menopause clinic nurse, but am not getting clear or consistent answers. Most people say increasing oestrogen will address the sweats, some people say progesterone alone or in combination with low-dose oestrogen should also do it and be safer with less risk of blood clots, etc. Most websites (including the NICE Guidelines) and articles are incredibly vague and unhelpful saying only that "HRT" can improve various symptoms, not what kinds for what. What would be most helpful is a clear explanation of what symptoms each hormone addresses, and what relative imbalances can cause.
I'm thrilled to find this website and plan to read as much as possible to find any more specific advice on how to balance your hormones based on symptoms. Right now, I have pouring sweats, hot flushes, poor sleep, low mood, mental fog, urinary frequency and scary active dislike of sex. Am so tired of all this and would be grateful for any advice and experiences from anyone who has had similar. If you have any links to really helpful info bookmarked, please pass those on. Thanks!
Otherwise, just wishing everyone else who has been having a bad menopause lot of luck and will post any specific and solid info I find helpful on here.
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Hi Lorna
I'm going through a similar hell of sweats and flushes and totally sympathise with what you describe. So clearly I don't have all the answers either!
I just wanted to say that I had very different results from different types of oestrogen supplements. I did not find Oestrogel effective but my best friend swears by it and she had tried all the patches previously. So it seems strange but some things seem to work better for some people.
I did not find the Evorel patches effective. I have found the Estradot patches effective, for about a year and a half had no sweats at all. Unfortunately, they have come back and not clear whether this is dosage because my own oestrogen has fallen further, or a bad batch of patches, or need for another hormone, or what! Trying to work this out for myself.
It is a pain but maybe you can ask your doctor to try you on another method of supplementing oestrogen as it doesn't seem there is one "best" one but there may be one that suits you better and this is much less drastic than giving up oestrogen entirely and taking natural supplements when you're already suffering so badly. I know I feel much too much on the edge to go natural even though I would much prefer to. I note that someone else on this same page has had some luck with another brand of HRT so there are lots of options.
I guess I'm just saying if it's not working, maybe experiment with the varieties that are out there. It's hard to work out equivalents because they tend to contain different forms of oestrogen but the GP should give you at least the equivalent to what you've been on to start and you'll quickly notice if something is having a bigger effect. Good luck
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Hi all, I am new to the forum, decided to join as I had found it so useful reading the posts I was able to access prior to joining. I started 3 years ago with hot flushes, night sweats and being unable to sleep. I had changed job and started studying at the same time (aged 37 years then), I also had feelings of being overwhelmed, anxiety, lack of concentration, brain fog and thought I was losing the plot and it was the stress of studying that was causing my symptoms as the GP told me it wasn't the menopause (which I thought it was initially) as my LH & FSH were normal. I had/have tried so many different things to try and combat the symptoms. I was started on Fluoxetine approx 3 months ago for the hot flushes, it seems to have helped a bit, still having sleepless nights, the biggest difference has been to my mood though. I have more energy and don't feel quite as 'flat' as I was, although still far from my normal self. I have been on HRT for 8+ weeks now, no noticeable improvement but I know it's early days.
I have started taking Flaxseed mixed with yoghurt (was full fat greek yoghurt until last week, started Alpro soya unsweetened) following recommendations on the forum, again probably too soon to see a difference.
Spent a fortune around 2 years ago on woollen bedding which did help initially, the pools of sweat did reduce. Sleep with the windows open even in the winter. I don't know if anyone else has found this (it may be down to my underactive thyroid) but during the day I used to be really cold (I have a fleece blanket in a drawer at work I used to wrap around me in the office, I also have one beside my chair in the living room for same reason!!) and my hands are always cold whereas at night the opposite extreme. Over the last 2 months maybe not having the extreme's of cold.
Any other tips or ideas would be welcome.
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I've been suffering from hot flushes and night sweats,insomnia, headaches I don't know what to do any advice
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Hi Jayne Brown
Have you introduced yourself on the new members thread? I hope someone has replied to you by now.
You need to give us more details about yourself e.g. age, what you periods are doing etc. so we can advice accordingly. Do read up all the info on this site to get really clued up but essentially you need to write down all the symptoms and questions and see the GP to get some HRT. HRT is very safe to use unless you have a strong family history or breast cancer or have other health conditions that might prevent this. Of course, lifestyle choices are also important and this is the time to access your diet and exercise to see if things could be improved and do learn to do some relaxation techniques. See posting DG x
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Hi,
I have had periodic spates of hot flushes for the past 6 years, maybe a few days or weeks here and there, but
nothing too debilitating.
However, in Jan 2019 I turned 50 and the hot flushes started just before Feb. Relentless, every 15 mins throughout
the day and night. Started as a tight tingle around my jaw line and then an intense wave of heat and sweat.
Reminded me of the waves of contractions. My periods stopped at the end of Jan too (having been erratic for the past few years).
I tried natural fabrics for clothing, no caffeine, lots of water, exercise, lost about 1 stone in weight (I now weigh about 9 stone 5lbs and I am 5' 3") and acupuncture, which reduced the flushes a little, but nothing really noticeable. I didn't (and still don't) want to take HRT, as I wanted to be as natural as possible.
I found this forum around the end of May, when trying to find a natural remedy and one of the threads mentioned Starflower Oil. I went immediately (literally straight there!) to Boots and picked up the 1000mg 30 day pack. I wanted to see how I got on before I posted on here. I've been taking them for three months.
After one month, some reduction, after two months, considerable reduction and after three months, no hot flushes at all and a period.
Could be a coincidence and that the period provided enough hormones to stop the flushes - but thought I'd share my experience, in
case it helps anyone :)
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Hi bonnie, that's interesting that your hot flushes became bad around last period.
My last period was 2 years ago and this is when I first started having hot flushes.
They got worse about 6 months down the line and now, 2 years on are not too bad.
They seem to come and go in phases and each time they seem to be getting less intense and less often.
My gp said most ladies she has seen tend to be through with it all in 2-3 years, but obviously some have a tougher time and everyone is different.
I don't take hrt either.
That's interesting with starflower oil. I might try it.
I take a good multi, vit c and omega 3. I'm also going to start taking calcium/vit d3
X
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Hi
i,m new to all this, i had hysterecomy 5 weeks ago so straight into menopause.
I can't take HRT
The sweats at the moment are all the time more during the day but still a problem at night,i'm doing all thats recommended, another issue for me is feeling extremely cold/shivering is this normal?
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Hi, ptsheldon, I started with shivery, freezing cold (to the bone!) feeling, had fleece blanket in bottom drawer at work & beside chair in living room where I sit. Thought initially it was my thyroid (underactive but stable for around 15yrs). The freezing cold feeling was always during the day & hot flushes/sweats at night. Since starting anti depressants (to reduce/stop flushes) & HRT I have not suffered from the cold feeling again, still ocassionally hot flushes but nothing like before. x
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I started with the menopause at 49. The flushes were mild for the first year. Hardly noticeable. The second year they hotted up. I went on HRT. It was fantastic. I felt like my old self. I was was told I had to come off it by the time I was 60. On two occasions I tried to come off it. Just stopping the tablets is disasterous. On the third attempt at 57 years old, I came off gradually over months. I spent 4 months with the sweats even more intense than when I first needed to go on HRT. Now I continue to have hot sweats in the same way as my second year of flushes. No different. I am absolutely convinced that HRT delays the menopausal symptoms. I am now 62 and have had a blood test to see where I am at? The last one being the intense star flower oil. None have worked.
The only way I can sleep through hot sweats is to take an antihistamine tablet, one that says "may make you drowsy". I do this once per week just to get back on track.
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Thanks for that really thought I was going mad!!
I can't take HRT but my consultant has wrote to my doctor suggesting other medication I'll arrange an appointment.
How long will you be taking the medication for, if I can ask
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I am on my third menopause - having come off HRT after 20 years (with a one year break that was awful). I feel better this time, but the hot flushes are still pretty bad 5 months after last HRT dose. So I am going to try H&B St John's Wort/Black cohosh combination. I have ordered 2 months' supply (half price on line!) and will report back.
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I am 49. Have had the hot face/flushing/and flushes for about 1.5 years now. How I "cope"...riiiiight. Coping with them certainly isn't a choice; a better way to say would be that we put up with and deal with them. Mine have been HORRIBLE. I practically cannot go anywhere without a fan and/or an ice pack. I have several fans: in my bedroom, in my living room, in the kitchen, at work on my desk (2; a small one for "good days" and a larger one for "bad days"). Whenever I flare up it is almost ALWAYS my face. My face burns and burns like an oven is right in front of it. Sometimes both sides, and often it's just one side - and if it's one side, the ear is severely hot too! It. Is. AWFUL. And because I suffer from anxiety too, any situation where I am even the last bit overly happy or sad or angry, increases the flushing and burning like you would not believe --- enter the ICE PACK. I have ice packs at home and at work - several. And when the burning is so bad that even a fan doesn't help much, I use an ice pack. So embarrassing to go in to a meeting at work and have to bring a small fan and/or an ice pack. And of course with everyone looking at me, it makes me anxious and embarrassed,so it makes my face even hotter! I half joke about it in the meeting -- or sitting at the doctor's in the waiting room -- saying, funny little things -- but really, I am MORTIFIED. The hot "body" flashes are another thing. They don't happen too, too often, and usually I just have to quickly unzip a layer of clothing and take it off (like a sweater/jacket); sit in front of the fan and I'm fine. Like I say, most of the time it is MY FACE. And once it is "exposed" - like going into a meeting or an appointment (doctor), or getting upset or angry, it "sets it off" for quite some time - sometimes hours - before it "settles down" with ice. And on top of this, when my face is burning hot, I'M FREEZING. So I have a fan and ice on my face and a blanket wrapped around me shivering (if I'm at home). I hate this and cannot wait for it to end! Sorry, had to pause there to take off my zip up sweater and turn on the fan - I'm getting overly warm just writing this! And speaking of sweaters (and I mean sweaters as a top - not a sweater you put on to go outside or if you are a bit chilly); I mean sweaters as tops (like instead of a t-shirt or blouse); I NEVER wear sweaters. I can't. I would, I'm sure, spontaneously combust and be forced to rip it off and be wearing just a blouse so am forced to only wear light items like t-shirts and other light fabric. No, I only wear sweater jackets if I'm chilly so that I am able to unzip them and rip them off at the first sign of a flash. Okay this is my first post and I have to get ready for work so I will end it here. I hope to hear from others to see if I am the only one with hot burning face/ear issues. Sometimes it is not the whole face, sometimes just little "areas" on the face - and the ear - it "picks" a side usually too. Sighhh....thanks for listening.
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I started having hot flushes in late December 2017. At the time I thought I had got flu, but thinking back to a conversation I had had with a friend on Christmas Eve, who had been telling me about her going into perimenopause, it dawned on me that I too was now having perimenopausal hot flashes. I am lucky enough to be able to say that I have never really suffered from the dreadful drenching night sweats that other women talk about. Or maybe I never got that far because I did a lot of research into menopause.
I was fortunate enough, that for some inexplicable reason, I held onto a book called Natural Alternatives To HRT by Dr Marilyn Glenville which belonged to my mother. God knows why because I was in my early twenties at the time. The book fascinated me and if I recollect correctly, I think it helped me to research solutions to the awful PMT symptoms I used to suffer. Anyway, I dug this book out and started reading it avidly taking in everything it could offer. Her latest book is called Natural Solutions To Menopause.
Upon following up the recommendations to cut out/dramatically reduce sugar and caffeine intake I managed to completely stop having hot flashes! In addition to this, I was taking tinctures of dong quai, agnus castus and black cohosh and later on sage capsules. Within a few months I was able to stop taking the tinctures and sage capsules. I can even have an occasional decaf latte and not get a hot flush so long as the latte is prepared with decent beans which have not been chemically treated!
I know this works for me because a few months back I started drinking my favourite drink which is Belvoir ginger cordial with sparking water. Within a matter of days, I started to have minor hot flashes and couldn't work out why they had started up again. Until I realised about the sugar in the cordial. I had totally taken it for granted that I would be okay and forgotten all about the need to pretty much elimininate sugar in any form. Just as a side note to this - I can't take artificial sweeteners as they give me panic attacks plus I hate the taste of them.
I have since learned that I cannot drink decaf coffee that comes from a jar either because the hot flashes will return with a vengance as I'm currently being reminded. Despite my endless research into all things menopausal, I am very easily apt to forget, along with brain fog, as to what the culprits are that cause hot flashes. These days, generally, I have virtually no sugar in my diet, save the odd tiny thing in sauce dressings for salads. And even then I tend to make my own dressings to really keep an eye on what I put in the dressing to make it tastier e.g. a tiny drop of maple syrup for french dressing.
Dr Glenville's book is not for the faint-hearted but if you persist with properly following what she recommends, you may find, like me, that you will eventually succeed in eliminating hot flashes! In addition to this, I regularly follow Eileen Durward's weekly menopausal video blog. She also has great tips and advice on coping with all the evils of menopause. Hope this is of some help.
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I haven't slept well since last spring. I don't normally slept well from the end of May till August, anyway, because of hayfever and it being so light I'm the evenings. So, I'm not sure when menopausal sleep disruptions kicked in. However, it is only in recent months that I've felt a bit warm at night. Fortunately, it only lasts a few minutes and I fall back to sleep again straightaway as long as I'm feeling relaxed.
I'm not on HRT and haven't considered it. I do get anxious at times but since I've suffered from GAD most of my life, anti-depressants would probably be a better option, methinks.
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@wearytraveller?.how are you doing with your meno now?
Reading through these threads makes me sad as there seem to be a lot of members who are still struggling despite natural remedies/HRT etc. I am not no HRT but get hot flushes...urghhh I hate them. They have changed since I had the Mirena out, they used to be the ****ly insects crawling under the sking type and I got very few, they are now the sweaty , damp frequent type, at least every hour and I hate them. I just have to wear layers and strip off quickly..within reason! Bit better now am not at work due to lockdown...or probably I don't notice them as much as easier to strip!
Sleep wise...I never ever sleep through now. Hot sweats, urge to wee, anxiety mind whirring....oh for a restful night's sleep...
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Hi everyone HRT stops most of it. Still get break throughs even on HRT. It's been two years now with menopause and I'm going to pack up all my hot clothes and donate them. I've bought a new wardrobe with really light viscose material over the last two years. I can't stand wearing hot denim or hot jumpers or poly or rough materials still and I don't think it's going to change. I also have a lovely cool air conditioner in the bedroom for hot nights. Cold showers are good too and swimming in cold water at the local pool (although I've not been swimming for a long time with COVID around). With COVID you are supposed to feel a slight fever but that's what it feels like a lot of the time with menopause I find that really amusing sorry everyone :) Cheers from Jen
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I coped with them by seeing my GP to increase the evorel, but that was years ago.
Doctors had to decrease the evorel due to abnormal bleeding after investigations ruled out any other problems, and I never got the flushes back, just night sweats.
I still get those, I use a fan every night by the bed. They are not pleasant, wet pyjama tops, but they are bearable and not a big problem.
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Hello from Canada ;)
I’m new here. I’m 60 and have been suffering from hot flushes for 5 years now. All this started at a bad time since our “healthcare system” here in Canada is suffering also. I haven’t seen a doctor in 5 years and am on a “waiting list”. So I’m suffering alone! That’s why I thought I’d joined this Forum. I was already doing yoga and exercises and that doesn’t seem to work. I never drank alcohol, don’t smoke, don’t drink caffeine and don’t eat spicy food (never have) and still my hot flushes keep on flushing!!!!! Every time I try to talk to a woman in my community, they all tell me that they never went through any of that!!!! I just want to cry when I wake up 5 times during the night because of the sweats and listen to my husband snoring next to me >:( Right now, I’m just glad I’m retired and I don’t have to work. But I just need to “vent” sometimes and have nobody to vent with ;D I usually have 10 flushes during the day also. Right now I’m trying meditation to see if that will help. Thank you for reading me :)
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Hello from Canada ;)
I’m new here. I’m 60 and have been suffering from hot flushes for 5 years now. All this started at a bad time since our “healthcare system” here in Canada is suffering also. I haven’t seen a doctor in 5 years and am on a “waiting list”. So I’m suffering alone! That’s why I thought I’d joined this Forum. I was already doing yoga and exercises and that doesn’t seem to work. I never drank alcohol, don’t smoke, don’t drink caffeine and don’t eat spicy food (never have) and still my hot flushes keep on flushing!!!!! Every time I try to talk to a woman in my community, they all tell me that they never went through any of that!!!! I just want to cry when I wake up 5 times during the night because of the sweats and listen to my husband snoring next to me >:( Right now, I’m just glad I’m retired and I don’t have to work. But I just need to “vent” sometimes and have nobody to vent with ;D I usually have 10 flushes during the day also. Right now I’m trying meditation to see if that will help. Thank you for reading me :)
Hello and welcome to the forum. I am sorry you are battling with hot flushes. I think HRT is the best thing for them but I understand this is difficult to get in Canada. It is lovely to have you on here.
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Why is it difficult to get HRT in Canada?
The hot flushes were the one symptom I couldn't cope with and that was the reason I went on HRT years ago. I only used it for 5 years and it got me over the worse of it.
Some of those ladies in your community are obviously lying as hot flushes are the most commonest symptom of the menopause. Sad you are not getting more support!
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I'm on hrt and mine is still bad does anyone have any tips? X
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I’ve been taking menopace original for about 3 months but since introducing sage 6 weeks ago my night sweats have gone completely. When I first started getting them I wasn’t too bothered as I was always on the cold side and suddenly I was warm, hot feet, hot hands, hot everything and it was saving on the heating lol. Then they got a bit ridiculous and I was throwing covers off and on all night. Went straight down they herbal route and it’s worked a treat although I was cold again so dropped it down to one sage a day rather than two and I’m still without a single sweat. Magnesium glycinate has helped a great deal with the aches and brain fog and my mental clarity is good, I work in accounting so needed to address it before it became too much of an issue. I’ve not had a period for months but I still get waves of feeling really hormonal and at these times I run on empty for a few days but in between that I’m ok, I’m loving having no periods, I couldn’t wait for them to stop, I don’t miss the ups and downs at all so I like to think I’ve found a good few supplements that balance it all out. I hope it helps someone out there
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Hi do you also take HRT ?
I’ve had a bad reaction to HRT and it’s made me a little scared to try it again so I’m looking for natural ways. I’m 55 now hopefully soon I might be heading out of this mess, who knows . I start the magnesium like your on this week so fingers crossed, I’m going to have a look now at some Sage after seeing your post. Good luck with everything X