Menopause Matters Forum
Menopause Discussion => Personal Experiences => Topic started by: Jillm on January 06, 2019, 10:56:32 AM
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I am new here and need some help. I have not had a period for 2 years, noticed first peri symptoms approx 4 years ago. Normal stuff flushes/flashes, irritable etc. But this past year has been awful. Palpitations, strange head tightness, feeling I can't swallow, this is very intermittent, but scary. In the past 2 months I now have strange buzzing in lower legs, now in vagina. This weekend strange weak feeling in arms, internal shakes, tight muscles.
I have convinced myself I have some horrible decease, MS, Parkinson's etc. These started around the time I started vagifem. Doctor says this would not cause the buzzing strange feeling in legs. Has anyone else had this.
I am so desperate and think I am loosing it most of the time.
Spend must of my time on my own watching TV in my room. I think my family thinks I've moved out.
In reality the person I was has moved out, I want her back😡😢🤪 ps is it normal for things to rank up post menopause?
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Welcome JillM. Sorry about your horrid symptoms. I'm not at your stage but sounds “normal†to me for this awful menopause lark. Someone will share similar soon, I'm sure xxx
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:)thank you so much for your reply. I am currently lying here convinced I have MS and I am petrified😩I should stop feeling sorry for myself and get up and move, I know this, but I have no motivation😡
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Have you looked at the website “34 menopause symptoms�
Also, look at the thread on here...â€things I have diagnosed myself with this year†xx
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Thank you again yes the 34 symptoms are very interesting, I think I have had nearly all of them at some point. I have an appointment on Thursday to discuss HRT. I have been reluctant to go down that rout as my mum had breast cancer. But I don't know how much longer I can cope feeling like this. Didn't sleep last night, feel like I am on the verge of a seizure or stroke. I need to get this health anxiety under control.
Doctor prescribed ani depressant for leg buzzing. Too scared to take it due to all side effects
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I am up, showered and my wonderful daughter made me a big bowl of oats with all good things in it. About to watch a film while doing a huge load of ironing. Going for the distraction route.
Back to work tomorrow and actually looking forward as it will take my mind off. Now I know I've lost the plot🤯
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Hi Jillm, i can sympathise with you as i have had all of your symptoms and more :'( I had to resort to HRT a few months into the meno and i am still on it. I am post meno now, age 60 and will stay on it as long as i can. It settled a lot of my symptoms however i still get blips of them now and again. Its the health anxiety that gets me as, i should be use to these blips but i always get myself worked up about them thinking something has been missed by the Dr and i start to google (don't google). Every now and then i come on here and i am reassured by what i read. This site is a life saver and has given me back my sanity many a time. The ladies on here all help each other so use it to help you through this very trying time for us. xx
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:o thank you so much for your very thoughtful reply. It does help to know others have the same symptoms, although I do not wish them on anyone.
Can I ask if you had swallowing problems. I don't have problems with food or liquid, just the feeling I can't swallow without forcing it. It scares the life out of me.
Also what HRT are you taking?
Thank you again for all your help❤️
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Hi JillM. :welcomemm:
Sorry you're feeling so crap, we know what that feels like. Unfortunately.
Everything you've got sounds like the good old meno symptoms, and the leg thing sounds like
restless leg syndrome? I get that, feels like my leg muscles are still moving, or want to move even when resting. It's not nice, but maybe take some paracetamol? I've found that helps sometimes.
When I was in peri, all I had was hot flushes, then when I became post meno, it got worse, all the symptoms under the sun, strange feelings, palps, anxiety,( which was the worse,)headaches, you name it, just horrendous.
The only thing about the swallowing I can think of is, maybe you get a lot of saliva build up?
I get that, and have to keep swallowing all the time, in fact, someone else posted about it the other day, sometimes it wakes me up, it is a nuisance, but I haven't found anything to clear it yet, it just settles on it's own.
As for convincing yourself you've got some incurable disease, we nearly all do that, is not nice either,
but all I can advise for that is don't google, and try and keep busy, like you're doing, keep your mind off it, hard I know, but hopefully, you're be able to get sorted out soon at the docs.
Hang on in there, hope this helps..😉
Jd xx
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:welcomemm:
How's your diet overall?
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Hi JillM
I agree with other posts; all sounds quite normal especially the buzzing legs. I had that for a couple of years on and off and was also offered ADs, but refused. It's all anxiety related and will pass. Keep busy and walk a lot - it helps.
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Thanks Marge, all the great replies have helped calm me down a lot :- in reply to the last post diet could be better, I am really trying to improve things🍔 only joking. Increase in veg but struggle with fruit it just makes acid reflux worse (forgot to add that to my symptoms). Fish also a problem but now added Maca. Linseed and chia seed. Hope these all help.
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As oestrogen levels drop off so muscles may become lax = aches and pains. Also, at this time of Life hiatus hernia can be a common problem which causes reflux, heartburn etc.. Over the counter medications can ease symptoms.
Eating little and often might be wise. Slow release foods so that the gut doesn't make too much acid because the stomach is empty. Ginger is a good settler. Porride. Dried fruits and nuts. Cut out alcohol ;)
Gentle exercise. I don't get on with fruit [unless it's in a pie with custard ;D] but we eat lots of veg. usually roasted. Lots of stir fried chicken breasts with ginger and garlic on beds of rice; chicken currie or mince with peppers, peas, beans mixed in.
Do read our threads on Vaginal atrophy too!
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Sounds very similar to my diet, I will from tomorrow be better at work, don't get a lunch time as I only work 6 hours, but Shouldn't stop me eating well, instead of waiting till I get home and grabbing rubbish. I am going to make overnight oats for tomorrow.
Excercise is ok swim and sauna on Thursday and Friday and I am going to walk the 2 miles home weather permitting. Alcohol is now not my best friend anyway(sadly) Although I do slip up from time to time🍷
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Many find that alcohol 'turns' when hormones begin altering ::)
Think about what you like eating and maybe prepare so that you have something in the fridge when you get home? DH cooks foods that can B frozen then heated quickly.
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JillM - search for our friend Roseneath regarding the swallowing xx
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Hi Jillm, not so much couldn't swallow but sometimes i'd feel it going all the way down like it was struggling to get there. did get a lot of gastric problems, ie heartburn & indigestion, had to go on Omeprazole eventually as eating was not something i looked forward to with all the problems. Had to go on Lactose free milk and cut out cake, pastries etc. I can however eat most things now and back on normal milk again, i just think we have hiccups with this period in our life as the body changes and settles down again. Hope this helps. xx
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Thanks Jgr, very helpful, I too have reflux can't take omeprazol, but ranitidine twice a day works.
I lost my gall bladder 3 years ago and I can't tolerate dairy very well, but I do love coconut milk.
After such great responses today from all the great women on this forum, I am now feeling a lot calmer and think I will now go to bed and watch the Greatest Showman, can't beat a bit of Hugh Jackman👍
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I can beat Hugh Jackman - if you give me a stick ;)
I find that the simple Milk of Magnesia or Rennies eases my heartburn. I've had a lot since I got that cold/cough in October.
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Jillm. I have sent you a private message. I was exactly where you are not a couple of weeks ago. Including the swallowing! You are not alone in this. X
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Oh JillM
Enjoy The Greatest Showman, lose yourself in it, it's just great.
Loved every minute of it.......🤡🤡
:ola:
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Did anyone NOT cry at the Million Dreams song :'( My son joined a choir and they sand this at Christmas, also ' Somewhere only we know' (John Lewis Ad / Lilly Allen) and ' Halleluja - Lenard Cohen. All tear jerkers. I couldn't look at him or I would have lost it completely. I even cry at the RSPCA Dogs Advert now!
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Roseneath, so new to this I don't Know how to send a personal message yet.
Thank you so much for your message, you don't Know just how much better it has made me feel.
Obviously I am not pleased anyone else is suffering these horrible feelings, but just to know it is hormones makes it a lot easier to accept. I really don't want HRT due to my family history, but I will go along on Thursday as see what GP has to say👍
Thanks again for taking the time to help me😃
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One has to post a certain number of times B4 one can reply to personal mails ;-)
Take a list with you Jillm ....... this isn't about your family history but about Quality of Life. Take a list with you and ask questions at your appt.. Some GPs however are not au fait with HRT etc.! Don't be fobbed off with 'you are too young' or 'you can take anti-depressant medications for that' ........ ask what is available and what would be suitable for your current symptoms. Let us know!
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Hi Jillm
Im at the same stage as you, and have very similar symptoms. The buzzy legs & vagina, also extends to my groin too, it also came on after stadting Vagifem, but my GP like yours says its not related. For a period I also felt like I was trying to swallow a lump in my throat. Funnily enough after a visit to the GP and receiving his reassurance, it weny away.
This blinking health anxiety has a lot to answer for. I read a document regarding HA and following this I decided to wean myself of “googlingâ€. It seems to be working, as now my first port of call is this site. Its been such a comfort, and it helps to know others are in the same boat.
As you can also see I have insomnia......03.45am >:(
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Hi jillm & welcome to the mad house,you should look at the forum,funny side of menopause & check out what we have all diagnosed ourselves with,I think there's a fair number of us who have had ms
Glad the posts have made you feel better,it's good not feeling like you're alone
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Hello Aby123 &Jpo. Thank you both for your great info.
I have been feeling a lot better Monday & Tuesday, so much so that I was going to cancel GP appointment tomorrow.
Then today, back to horrible sensations, this morning slight numbness in face and tight scalp, mild sore head off and on all day and now slight numb face and tight scalp again.
Here I am back to square 1, anxiety through the roof. Oh buzzing legs again.
I have now got magnesium body butter which seems to help a bit.
I'll go tomorrrow and pore it all out again.😢🤯
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It sounds like neuralgia,have you checked that? I too thought I'd ms a few years back,tended to think my face was more numb than it actually was I think but that's what it was in the end
Good luck tomorrow x
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I agree the worst thing I've done is google. Was discussing with my friend this afternoon and we both think it's a blessing and a curse to be as informed as we are.
I never discussed menopause with my mum, but now that I thiink back, there were times when she was struggling, but I was too young to understand.
I wish she was still here to talk too.
I won't make that mistake with my 16 year old, have been telling her how I feel. Hardly surprising she's not that interested just now and I don't blame her, but I'll keep at it, it may help some time down the line👍
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You're absolutely right jillm, I too don't keep anything from my daughter,like you I was clueless to all this,think you're going mad to start with,thank goodness for this site 😊
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Hi everyone, just back from my GP appointment. I took along a list if my symptoms the length of my arm. This included
Hot flushes
Night sweats
Post nasal drip
Acid reflux
Internal vibration
Buzzing/tingling legs and other bits
Anxiety
Tears
Strange tight head feelings
Numb bits on face,slight sore heads- I think migraine without the really pounding headache
Strange heavy/weak feeling in shoulders and arms
Aching muscles/joints
I did have very stiff left hip/ buttock on sitting, this wore off on moving. This has now gone, thank goodness.
Anxiety, Anxiety, Anxiety.
The bottom line is, he thinks the symptoms of menopause I have are hot flushes, night sweats and anxiety. Can't disagree with that.
Doesn't think acid reflux is menopausal, I beg to differ, but was not going to argue. also thinks there is no connection to vagifem and buzzing legs.
I decided against HRT, he prescribed low dose Fluoxetide for hot flushes and anxiety.
Still a bit nervous about this, but I'll give it a go, I need to do something.🥺
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Your GP is SO behind! :beat: :beat: :beat:
Get the anxiety eased and maybe keep a mood/food/symptom diary. Also do read the various threads so that next time you can go armed with info. ;-).
As oestrogen levels drop so muscles may become lax = aches and pains which over the counter medication should ease. Laxity has caused me to dribble from my mouth at night, so romantic, not; to sleep with a wad of Kleenex under my chin.
Also, skin may become dry : inside and out :o : that is, skin, scalp, vagina, deep in the ears, eyes, lips ......... GPs know very little, they think that without hot flushes a woman can't possibly be menopausal. I really am surprised that more GPs are given a :kick: !!
Neuralgia is sudden onset. Caused by a blood vein pressing on the nerve which causes intense pain in that region of the face. It would strike me so suddenly I would hit the ground, I am sure that people thought that I was drunk when out walking my dog :'(. If the condition persists it can be relieved by intense surgical intervention.
Headaches can be caused by dehydration, stands to reason if the body is in general, drying out.
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Hi everyone, I would like to thank Birdy especially who gave me advice on buzzing legs and suggested magnesium. I do take a magnesium supplement dailyand bloods suggested levels were fine, which is why I did no consider the buzzing could be connected.
However, I started using a magnesium body butter last Monday and although it has not stopped completely, the buzzing feeling has greatly reduced.
It is there in the morning but to a lesser extent, it goes after I rub in the cream. I will continue using it in the hope it will go completely.
Living in hope👍Anxiety also reduced😃hopefully not spoken too soon.
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Hi Jillm
I haven't seen the rest of the thread - just your last post - so other things might have been said - but your doctor is out of order in prescribing Fluoxetine for your menopausal symptoms if you are peri-menopausal and experiencing flushes and sweats. If you haven't been offered HRT as the first line of treatment before anti-depressants then your doctor is acting aganst current NICE recommendations (Guidelines) on menopause. You should only be offered anti-depressants for anxiety if you have previously suffered from depression or anxiety which is not hormonally induced. At a later stage if the HRT has not eliminated residual anxiety and other measures are not helping ( mindfulness, exercise, walking, mental strategies, stress reduction CBT etc) - then the possibility of ADs can be revisited.
Unless there is a good medical reason why you should not take HRT (and there are very few contra-indications), then this should be offered by the doctor first with clear explanation that this is the first line of treatment - and apologies if this has already been mentioned earlier in the thread as I've been away from the forum for a few days. It's all too easy for docs to fob women off with these and some docs are out of date...
I hope you feel better soon whatever the outcome
Hurdity x
PS I don't think I've said :welcomemm: ?!
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Thanks Hurdity for getting back about the AD's. I haven't taken any yet, was shocked to find they are actually Prozac.
To be fair to the GP he did suggest HRT,our surgery is very good at prescribing HRT, I said no at this stage as my mum had breast cancer and one on best friends was diagnosed just before Xmas, so maybe I am just overly cautious just now.
I am trying a menopause supplement Pukka womankind menopause from health store just now, got these last Monday before GP appointment. May as well give them a go, if not it would be a waste of money. Won't do any harm. I can always take the drugs if needed🤪
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Hi everyone, just back from my GP appointment. I took along a list if my symptoms the length of my arm. This included
Hot flushes
Night sweats
Post nasal drip
Acid reflux
Internal vibration
Buzzing/tingling legs and other bits
Anxiety
Tears
Strange tight head feelings
Numb bits on face,slight sore heads- I think migraine without the really pounding headache
Strange heavy/weak feeling in shoulders and arms
Aching muscles/joints
I did have very stiff left hip/ buttock on sitting, this wore off on moving. This has now gone, thank goodness.
Anxiety, Anxiety, Anxiety.
The bottom line is, he thinks the symptoms of menopause I have are hot flushes, night sweats and anxiety. Can't disagree with that.
Doesn't think acid reflux is menopausal, I beg to differ, but was not going to argue. also thinks there is no connection to vagifem and buzzing legs.
I decided against HRT, he prescribed low dose Fluoxetide for hot flushes and anxiety.
Still a bit nervous about this, but I'll give it a go, I need to do something.🥺
Our digestive system can suffer during this horrid time, thus acid reflux. Dr is incorrect xx
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Oh I agree, reflux was one of the first symptoms. I did not think it was worth arguing the point 😳
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your doctor is acting aganst current NICE recommendations (Guidelines) on menopause .........
........... "guidelines" being the important word here. There is nothing written to make Health Professionals agree to these guidelines or Life would be a lot easier. Many GPs are constrained by funding. Many simply don't believe that a woman can be menopausal without suffering hot flushes. Many do not want to learn any more about menopause ......... regardless of what NICE suggests.
Stuck between a rock and a hard place then ..........
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Oh I agree, reflux was one of the first symptoms. I did not think it was worth arguing the point 😳
Ask to see a different Dr huni
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I am so glad I have read this post. I have been suffering for about 5 weeks from numb bits - everywhere!! Foot, groin, wrist, pins and needsnin legs and arms, buzzing, tingly hands and feet. I have had blood tests today for all sorts of things and obviously I am thinking the worst. Thank you so much for these posts - theybare keeping me from loosing my mind. X x
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Just to add my penneth (Is that a word? I sound like my grandmother!) on the tingling and buzzing and overall shaky stuff. I have had this . Seen countless GPs in tearly thinking I have MS/Parksinsons etc who ALL seem unbothered...& say joints/muscles effected by hormone changes which is stress exacerbated. Also wear and tear at joints which is aging! Just come back from Meno consultant (NHS) who seemed unbothered by it to. One leg of mine is bad for tingling but GP said kness joint / age. Also ditto tingling back of head. He said numbness (where you cant feel anything) is the concern. I am worse when hot / tired / thinking about it. Noticed my son (10!) twitching in bed so just goes to show we are just paranoid at our age with these hormone surges. I have been prescribed Clonidine for anxiety/insomnia so I will be giving it a try next week. I feel I just need to CALM DOWN and enjoy life. Just for one day. Please brain!!
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Hi Annierus3 & Roseneath. Thanks for your posts, I have had some relief for the past couple of weeks, but from Wed this week strange tight head feelings back, slight sore heads and numb face, also sore stiff hands especially thumbs.
I have kept notes since May last year & it has helped to go over them & see that the symptoms are similar. The MS/Parkinson's/stroke fears have popped in again, but I am not allowing them to hang around.
I have found the magnesium body butter a relief & rub it on after shower in the morning & take a relaxing bath in the evening then use it before bed. Give it a go it may help, it certainly won't do any harm
I have worked out that the symptoms seem to come round ever 4 weeks or so, last felt really rubbish over Xmas. Has anyone else noticed this or am I nuts? :-\ :o
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Sorry meant to say, Lower legs still buzzing although not as much as before. :D
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Hi Both, it’s good to hear that you both have had tests that came back clear. Can I ask, how long have you both had these sensations? I’ll be honest, I worry all the time, thinking it’s really bad.
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Hi Annierus3
If you mean the buzzing legs mine started about November last year, about same time as I started using vagifem, although GP says they are not connected.
The other strange head feelings, anxiety, tightness in face/scalp etc, palpitations, heavy arms, aching legs probably last May. >:(
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Hi Jillm. I have just caught up with your thread and wanted to say that I have had restless legs since my forties when I started the meno journey so for me I know it is definitely not related to using Vagifem as I have only been using it for nearly two years. I too have trouble swallowing. Not all the time but quite frequent. Particularly bad at the dentists. It is always hard to swallow when having work done but it is now really bad. Luckily my dentist is very understanding and will let me take a quick rest whilst being treated. I also get it when eating sometimes. I just can't seem to swallow what I am eating and it can be quite alarming. The ladies on here really do give us our sanity back when we realise we are not alone with any of our weird symptoms so keep on posting and answers will be forthcoming
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Hi Herdwick,
Thanks for your contact. The info on swallowing is very helpfull, this only happens from time to time, but it is very scary, my GP didn't seem particularly worried, but didn't give me any reason for it. Not much help.
Can I ask about your legs, do you mean you also have buzzing in lower legs. GP also didn't have any suggestions on this other than nerve problem & prescribed AD's. Not taken them yet.
My legs also ache from time to time, as I mentioned before these things all seem to be in cycles of approx 4 weeks. Although no period for 2 years, seems my hormones are still fluctuating in a strange ongoing cycle. :-\
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Hi Jill
Like others, I have loitered on here for a while just observing other people's experiences, but your post made me want to respond.
This will be a very very long post so please bear with me and get comfy or just go straight to the tips if you get bored.
I want to reassure you that all the symptoms you are experiencing I have also had / have, and I can pretty confidently tell you that they are associated with peri menopause. Here is my story and some tips for you to try to help you cope.
Quick overview of me: age 44; heavy clotty painful periods for 7 years due to fibroids and polyps resulting in anaemia on and off; reflux and swallowing problems for 4 years; 18 months ago started with areas of numbness including face, muscle and joint aches, eye pain and dryness, increased cystic breast pain, dizziness, brain fog and forgetfulness, chest flutters, shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping, weird 'sausage fingers' feeling in hands with stingy raised veins, pins and needles / 'buzzing' and heat in hands and feet, tinnitus, difficulty with cooling down with sweats or getting warm with shivers.
Obviously I went to my gp (3 female ones) with these symptoms but realised quite quickly that the more frequently you go the less they take you seriously.
Dr Google (bad idea) meant I was convinced I had MS or some other horrible condition. I had a barium swallow to check my gullet, blood tests, and nerve conduction tests which all came back negative. I paid privately for brain, spine and neck MRIs which came back negative. I went to the optician and those tests unsurprisingly came back ok. All of this was extremely reassuring but of course did not help with the symptoms and made me feel like a fruit loop. The gps final response was fibromyalgia and a prescription for amytripoline.... no thank you!
I'm disgusted about gps lack of peri / menopause knowledge which surely they have a professional obligation to update in order to accurately diagnose and treat. There are 33 million women in the UK. It's inexcusable and terrifying how many of those are misdiagnosed and dished out pain killers and anti depressants or worse. It's medical negligence. If we can get informed as laymen then so can they as practitioners. They can just read the flipping NICE guidelines as a bear minimum!
Anyway, this is when I decided to take control myself. I started to spot patterns with my symptoms during the menstrual month which made me realise they were either linked to hormone spikes and dips or blood loss with my heavy periods (most likely a mixture of both). So I researched this using reliable UK medical sources (see below). That is when I stumbled across the 34 symptoms of peri menopause and had a lightbulb moment. Oestrogen receptors are all over the body so of course there will be multiple symptoms. The relief was enormous.
I still have many of the symptoms to some degree but I'm now due to have a total laparoscopic and vaginal hysterectomy leaving the ovaries in order to sort out the heavy periods/fibroids. I'm quite terrified but also can't wait to have no more bleeding, anaemia or iron tablets, which I think may be causing some of the symptoms. I'm also now privately under the annual care of Dr Louise Newson, who diagnosed peri menopause within 10 minutes and prescribed Oestrogel only to begin after my hysterectomy. My gp was quite snippy about all of this this, but I couldn't care less. I fully intend to change surgeries after the hysterectomy.
I know both of these things are big steps and will bring their own challenges but I feel very positive. I actually feel quite 'lucky' to only have to take the oestogel as I know from this forum that most of the horrid side effects come from progesterone and that transdermally is the safest route. Dr Newson recommended 2-4 pumps of gel which I can vary depending upon my symptoms at that time, to be rubbed on the inner thighs as far away from the breasts as possible.
I think my main concern in the interim before my ovaries pack up completely is too much oestrogen as I think this dominance (during contraceptive pill years) caused the breast cysts, fibroids, chloasma and precancerous cells on my cervix (back in my 30's). But the pill has much larger doses of hormone than HRT. I'm keen to stop my current symptoms which happen in the oestrogen dips so I think it will just be trial an error with the gel, giving it 3 months to settle down. Obviously due to the hysterectomy I won't know when I'm post menopausal.
Anyway now for top tips that have helped me:
- Get fully informed. Check out websites for the British Menopause Society, Dr Currie (on here) and Dr Newson (Menopause Doctor website). That should be enough as they have a wealth of easy to understand reliable information. Bookmark, print or copy bits into the notes page of your phone so that you can quickly refer back to them - damn that brain fog! Try to avoid American websites as their advice re HRT is based on the much flawed medical studies of yesteryear.
- Have a blood test for anaemia as most women are, particularly if periods are heavy. The symptoms creep up on you and are horrible, but it can be sorted with iron tablets and diet.
- If you can afford it consider making an appointment at Dr Louise Newson's private clinic (there are a few specialists there). It's over a couple of hours from me and is expensive at £250 for a 30 min initial appointment but I think it is worth it. Take a list of symptoms (although she will use a Greene Scale questionnaire) and a list of questions. You may want to get hormone blood tests done at your doctors first to avoid that additional cost though they may not be necessary depending on age. You can ask for the printout from your gps receptionist. It's your data and by law you can have access to it. Dr Newson is very active on raising awareness and educating gps and women on all things menopause and HRT so you will be in safe hands.
- Research HRT options. There is no reason why gps cannot prescribe BODY identical oestrogen (17 beta oestradiol) and progesterone (utrogestan) as they are available on the NHS, rather than the synthetic rubbish which seems to cause most of the side effects / risks. Surely to goodness those should be discontinued by now. Transdermal is also the safest method. If HRT is the route you choose it can be individualised to your needs and medical history risks. There are many short and long term health benefits of taking HRT.
- Be breast aware. I've had some scares in the past and cystic breasts makes it very difficult to examine but generally if lumps move they are okay, static ones aren't. There are some easy self examine guides online. If in doubt get straight to the gp. From 50+ there should be Nhs screening. Personally I think this should be for any age on HRT, particularly progesterone. Diet, exercise, weight, alcohol and smoking are the key self help factors here that you can control.
- Get your feet checked with a podiatrist. I know it sounds odd, but my arches had started to collapse and I was over pronating, which was causing widespread muscle, joint and foot pain (including the buzzing and burning nerve pain). I think that lax muscles was the culprit. This is easily sorted with orthotic inserts which have literally changed my life. Memory foam Sketchers are also fab for the feet, cheaper at Sports Direct.
- 20 minute magnesium Epsom Salt baths or foot soaks (in a washing up bowl) a couple of nights a week are great for muscles. They can be expensive. I get a bulk box off Amazon for about £20 and they last ages.
- Massage, either self massage, I use Better You Magnesium Sleep mineral lotion. Or treat yourself to a professional full body massage. Swedish massage is a good all rounder. I try to go every 6 weeks if poss. It can be expensive so see if your local college does it, usually for about £10.
- Consider supplements Vitamin D3 (bones, and interestingly breast cancer I was reading the other day on breastcanceruk), Omega 3 (joints), B complex (nerves and muscles), multivitamin and take with meals to protect your stomach. Boots 3 for 2 or Holland and Barrett penny sale are good quality.
- Cut out alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, spicy food, carbonated drinks, citrus food, tinned tomatoes or anything too acidic ... sorry. Eat little and often, not too late and don't lie down after eating. This will dramatically sort out acid reflux which irritates that swallowing muscle. If needed occasionally take a teaspoon of Gaviscon before bed (don't drink afterwards). It usually does the trick but minimise the diet triggers first. I took Omeprazole for a while but that comes with its own problems and stops you fully absorbing other vitamins and minerals.
- Consider your medication. NSAIDS will negatively effect your stomach (acid reflux etc) so if you need to then always take with food. Mefenamic acid, Ibruprofen etc are really painful for me. Paracetamol is well tolerated and 1x can usually sort out most aches and pains.
- 30 mins of yoga stretches and breathing morning and night if poss. Nadia Narain DVDs are fantastic for any level and really lovely and relaxing too. The boxset is great value and has something for everyone depending on how you feel that day. Cheaper than classes and after a while you will be able to do the moves watching normal telly. Amazon or eBay.
- Deep breathing exercises for sleep, anxiety, flushes etc. Breathe slowly pushing out your belly then up through your lungs then back down. Putting one hand on your belly and the other on your chest can help. It takes a little practice. Or the 3,4,5 method of breathing in for 3 counts, hold breath for 4 counts and breathe out for 5 counts.
- 5cm memory foam mattress topper is a godsend for comfort in bed. Argos or Silentnight sale.
- Wear layers so you can easily cool down or stay warm. Hot water bottles are cheap and also great for aches and pains. Eat ice cubes or frozen fruit to cool down at home, or try running inside wrists under a cold tap. Drink warm rather than hot drinks. Cut alcohol, caffeine, spicy food. Keep an sos kit of 'mop up' tissues, mini deodorant and a wafting device in your bag.
- Bedside radio low on a sleep timer helps with tinnitus or difficulty sleeping.
- Completely overhaul your diet, common sense tells you what is healthy re fruit and veg etc. I'm just starting with kefir yogurt which is supposed to be good for gut health. It's an acquired taste! But try to keep weight down.
- Drink plenty of water warm or cold and make it your main drink as dehydration can make you feel rubbish, particularly if you are sweating. You can flavour it with lemon, ginger, fruit, mint etc.
- Probably the most important thing is being as active as possible. Walking is perfect weight bearing exercise and is better for the pelvic floor than running. I try and walk everywhere I can and joined a local 'walking for health' group for company. When you feel rubbish or in pain this feels like the last thing you want to do but trust me it will benefit you in so many ways and you can build it up. Plus it is free! You should be doing at least 150 minutes to get you a bit out of breath every week. Keep your circulation pumping and don't sit for long periods of time. It keeps weight down too.
- Speaking of pelvic floor, this is something we all need to be doing. You can download a free app or set an alarm on you phone for 3 times a day. Michelle Kenway has some great You Tube tutorial videos. I'm still quite literally getting to grips with this at the moment.
- Tell friends, husband, family and work if you are struggling. This will make your life easier. Ive noticed that literally nobody talks about it so start the conversation and don't be embarrassed. I've been really lucky with an amazing husband and great (male) boss and work mates. I made the very difficult decision to leave work as I was finding it so difficult and uncomfortable but I'm determined to get back after the hysterectomy and HRT are all sorted.
I hope this doesn't all sound happy clappy. Even if just one thing works for you it will be a bonus.
I know that I'm just at the beginning of this journey and the next phase will be a challenge but I wish you and all the ladies on here the very best for the future. I shall continue to loiter in the background xx.
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Lovely post, Bobidy. Thank you for taking the time to write so comprehensively, something for everyone there!
Good luck in your menopause journey.
JP x
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:thankyou: :foryou: :ola:
Thank you for this. I identified with much of it. I found some of your tips very helpful.
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Hi Bobidy,
Thank you for your very informative post, I sat down with a cuppa and had a good read.
A bit more info about me, I am 56(birthday last Saturday, but going with 21 again), I suppose I am post menopause as I have not had a period for 2 years, symptoms only became a problem in past year and 1/2.
All your suggestions are great, I must check out the insoles as I am sure I have the same problem with feet, could be causing the buzzing legs.
I do take Epsom salts baths and foot soak, along with magnesium body butter, I'll try the better you sleep lotion.
Could have done with it last night, Hardly a wink of sleep, horrible head feelings, hard to describe, not a headache more a pressure or internal tremor of course then anxiety. I am so grateful for all the advice it really does help to calm me down.
I only hope one day this will all pass.
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What a helpful post, Bobidy. I'm going to read it with care because you've taken so much care writing it down xxx
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Absolutely love your post Bobidy. :clapping: your comments on Dr's are spot on! and no I didn't have fibromyalgia either! :bang:
The list of symptoms are pretty much the whole lot you can get when you have bad peri, and the tips are really really useful.
Hope some of your symptoms or indeed all of them are coming under control it can take more than 3 months, but they can disappear or lessen to the point that they are just a slight irritation - oh and please don't just loiter, post, post, post - we want to hear how it's going!
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Bobidy - feeling very tearful reading your Quick Overview paragraph. I've got almost all those symptoms and I've never quite been able to describe my hand and finger problems and the fizzy calves and sore feet. This morning everything hurts and I feel like it's going to be one of those days :(
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Good luck with your hysterectomy Bobidy, I hope you don't have to wait too long for it. It will be a relief to put an end to the heavy bleeding. Let us know how you get on.
JP x
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Hello all,
Thank you for your support and replies. I have had a host of blood tests done, and it turns out I am actually really low on Vit D. My doctor to be fair is so lovely, and listens to me when i go. She has never made me feel like i was going mad or wasting her time. She suggested the Vit D and it seems that it's causing a bit of havoc for me!! I have just started taking it and so will report back after 3 months. Keep well everyone and thanks again x
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Hi all
Thank you for your best wishes, you are very kind.
I have another long post I'm afraid so strap yourself in.
Sorry Jill for hijacking your post. It just shows the multitude of symptoms are pre and post menopause whilst our ovaries and the oestrogen receptors are going bonkers. I have a vague theory about the tremor / anxiety feeling which is obviously just my thoughts. I'm not stressed or anxious at all but do get 'rushes', usually in bed that keep me awake, which of course is when it is more noticeable and seems worse. When the ovaries are starting to conk out our body still desperately tries to get the oestrogen it needs. If it struggles from the ovaries it's going to try from elsewhere in the body. The adrenal glands do also produce some oestrogen. So I wonder if the over stimulation of the adrenals trying to grab some oestrogen is what causes the adrenal rushes (tremors feeling)? If you bear that in mind and think of it as a natural body function you can't control rather than something more personal to you it might help. Therefore then HRT oestrogen should help combat that one maybe? As it is a bit of a 'fight or flight' scenario, in theory you need to burn off some of that excess adrenalin to calm the rush. Obviously you can't go for a brisk walk in the middle of the night but I usually do some basic stretching or a quick self massage in bed or get up for a quick mooch around the house with some deep breathing which seems to work.
My other many top tips for sleep are (I hope they don't come across as patronising):
Don't go to bed hungry but don't eat for 2 hours before bed to ease acid reflux. Have a banana later in the day as the body coverts them to serotonin, the happy and relaxed hormone. Stimulants are a no no, tea, coffee, chocolate, sugary snacks, alcohol... sorry. Have a foot bath or bath close to bed time (Epsom salts optional). Gentle stretches. Try to keep to a regular sleep pattern with no napping during the day. Exercise and fresh air during the day, even if it is just a brisk walk around the block on a bad day. Get your bedroom lovely and comfy so you look forward to bed. Tv, phones and laptops etc have blue light which will stop your brain from switching off, so don't be tempted. Warm up the bed with a warm hot water bottle (keep it if you have any aches and pains to put it on or kick it out). Put the radio on really low with something which will just wash over you like Radio 2, Jazz FM, Classic FM, Magic Chilled etc preferably with a sleep timer so you can relax. iTunes has downloads called Easy Sleep music. Or there is a free app called Relax Melodies which you can customise to suit the sounds you find relaxing and you can set a timer too. Concentrate on your breathing with belly breathing or the 3,4,5 method. Reading always helps me, chic lit rather than anything too taxing. Your library will have loads of choice including quick reads if you find books difficult to get into. Puzzles will also work, crosswords always make me tired. What you are trying to do is wind the brain down and stop it whirring on a million different things. Put a pad and pen in your bedside drawer and if you get any random 'must remember thats' in the night you can get it out of your head onto paper and forget it. Get a spare pillow. For side sleeping pop it between your knees for better alignment or sometimes it's nice behind your back. For front sleeping pop it under your hips. For back sleeping pop it under you knees or under your feet. When I'm trying to drop off ill sometimes retrace a walk in my head or somewhere I've been on holiday, or minds eye a favourite film etc basically something nice and relaxing that you can focus completely on the familiar detail. If you've got the '3 o'clock in the mornings' and have been lying awake for a bit admit defeat, break the cycle and get up or put the bedside light on read another chapter etc and you should drop off again. I've only had a couple of night sweats thank god but wear cotton nightwear rather than synthetics and cotton sheets. Consider having 2 single quilts for you and your husband of different togs so you can stay cooler and fling off and on to your hearts content. I have a furry blanket too as it feels nice and snugly.
Lack of sleep is going to effect you negatively in so many ways and really heighten these horrible symptoms. From personal experience pain, concentration, energy, emotions etc are all going to be much worse so it's really important to do everything you can to look forward to bedtime not dread it. Sometimes, but not often now, I can go 2 or 3 nights with really poor sleep but I know now not to get stressed about it as I'll just eventually be so knackered I'll sleep like a log the following night.
With regards to the orthotics, they do take a bit of getting used to at first and will initially feel a bit uncomfortable underfoot. Wear them a little bit longer every day and you will get used to them. It did take me a couple of months. 3/4 ones mean I can benefit from sketchers memory foam insoles too. As they add a bit of extra height to the inside of the shoe lace-ups are best so that you can increase the foot space. Otherwise the top of your foot might rub on the shoe which is not nice. Heals are no longer your friend I'm afraid. Lots of walking will then get your feet and body used to the new correct alignment. I was shocked at how it totally changed my posture back outwards to normal and I did have some initial twinges which is to be expected but they do go. I still get twinges in my calf and hip every now and then but it's virtually nothing compared to how it was pre orthotics. You will find yourself looking at other people's feet to see if they are over pronating too and wanting to tell them about orthotics!
Agatha - please do not feel tearful. With regards to the weird hand thing I find it worse if I've done anything dexterous for a length of time, hence why I had to give up the desk job. So maybe consider what you do with your hands and break tasks up into shorter periods of time. I think (and I maybe wrong) it is something to do with blood circulation and nerves. I know that sounds scary but if you do some hand pumps making a fist or gently tickle your hands to change the sensation to a nice one that works for me. If it happens in bed just pump your hands or hold your arms straight up over your head for a couple of minutes. Try to sleep with your arms facing up rather than down to avoid the weird sausage numbness upon waking. My blood pressure is always on the low side, suspect it's due to heavy periods, which may have something to do with it and it seems worse at certain times of the menstrual month.
I wonder if it would be a good idea to have a thread purely for symptom tips (not queries) that runs continuously and everyone can add to. I'm sure lots of people have great ideas to share but they just get lost in the more social threads. I know personally that I really needed that guidance when everything started with me. Then maybe another thread purely for HRT tips as I'd find that really useful too. Just a thought.
I think my main aim now is to really try and rethink everything with a different more positive slant and feel in some control rather than overwhelmed, and it is working. When I get one of my horrible symptoms or I'm having a 'write-off day' I just thank my lucky stars it isn't MS or dementia etc and I know the next hour, day or week the symptom will pass and I'll feel much better. I'll be damned if the next 40 years of this rubbish is going to define me. I think it's so important to do as much as poss to help myself and it's given me the kick up the backside to really focus on my health as I'm getting a bit older, which is only a good thing. I'm not pinning all my hopes on the hysterectomy and HRT but I'm pretty sure it will improve something which will be a bonus.
Also it's easy to feel miffed with women who seem to sail on through all of this with little or no symptoms and not have to take HRT etc (I don't know anybody going through it), but the research does prove that we will have much better bone, heart and potentially cognitive health long term which is reassuring. I've found that the more I talk to women about general 'lady problems' (why does nobody talk about them? it should NOT be embarrassing!) virtually all have had problems at some point so I do take cold comfort from that and it makes me feel a lot less 'poor me'.
Anyway thank you again for taking the time to read another ramble xx
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Bobidy, "you can't go for a brisk walk in the middle of the night" - well when I was at my very worst the nights were very bad - the insomnia and the panic and mind going 90 to the dozen - they call it fight or flight but for the first time in my life I have at least 3 major "flights" in the middle of the night!! I had an overwhelming urge I couldn't control got out of bed got dressed and started to walk to the airport. I was going to see my only friend in England so my head said because I would be "safe" there. It is 20 miles to the airport and it is 3 in the morning!
My husband called the policy twice and they got me and he came and collected me 1 other time along the main road once he realised I was gone! I would describe myself not to put too finer point on it as pretty psychotic but I just had this overwhelming need to "walk"!! and it was a current theme for about 3 years!
Nothing on this earth I tried to "relax" worked except for diazepam which would "put me out".
Completely agree that having a body in a high state of anxiety almost permanently should do some damage - it is almost like having a switch you cannot turn off and the midn gets conditioned to living that way.
For the life of me and this isnt just recently I cannot fathom how the medical profession can never put 2+2 together on some of the things that are such simple questions to ask bearing in mind that half the population of the country are women. Why cant they ask "how old are you" "what are your periods like", have you ever had postnatel depression" when someone presents with chronic anxiety instead of saying "has anything bad happended to you recently to make you feel this way
2! duh! It has frustratd me for years and years that the NHS takes the "pin the tail on the donkey" approach - if they cant stick a label on it in 2 go's then you are "not suitable for their speciality" and they palm you on to another who takes the same approach - they dont even hazard a guess which person might be the right person.
I sort of see-sawed between "poor me" do something about it, then went to "so what, it is what it is, I have to try and stay alive" cos no one's listening. But it is nearly fixed now and it was so flaming simple that now I am just plain angry!
I tried everything you suggest and more because I spent years looking for solutions to all those symptoms an my contribution to a tips page could be lengthy :) but it was only a mild help. I just worry now I know all this stuff that the underlying physiology of very very bad meno needs put on the road to recovery before you can help yourself with the "wellness, self-kindness" things we should all be doing anyway. I dont mean this to come across as negative because it works for some, its just I know I felt more frustration that all the things I was doing that were supposed to help didnt. its a bit of a double edged sword Bobidy!
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You mentioned footwear,can I just say,after a rather unsuccessful foot operation, I find fit flops brilliant and was recommended them by a foot physio,I've not misspelt it(unusually for me) they're a bit more expensive but if you're bothered with getting comfy shoes or have foot problems,you really should give them a go FITFLOPS
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Many GPs will not comply with NICE guidelines. I have heard it said on here several times that they are told "NICE Guidelines are that. Guidelines." There is no legal requirement for GPs to adhere to them. Would be nice but there it is. Some simply won't be told, nor do they like patients doing research and going in 'armed'. They feel demeaned!
I too have wanted to 'walk away' from my feelings :'( but they have a tendency to follow me >:(. A friend when we had regular periods would get a lot of energy and clean house top to bottom, when the bleed started she was worn out! Until the next month ::).
I had restless legs for years - bananas solved the problem. I am aware of the sensations in the day but as soon as I get into bed they would 'drag'. Lack of potassium is my problem. I would lay with legs up the wall to ease sensations :-\. Nurofen also helps.
Hi Bobidy :welcomemm:
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Hi Bobidy,
Thanks again for your great post with lots of helpful tips.
Feel free to post anytime, I sat down again with a nice cup of ginger and lemon tea and read through all the recent comments.
One thing I can endorse is Fitflips, I have been wearing them for years, they are brilliant, can't wait for warmer weather.
Wee tip a site called BrandAlley has an offer on fitflops, I recently bought pair at 1/2 price, Briliant bargain.
I do find steeping feet in a nice Epsom salts foot bath very helpful for buzzing legs and generally relaxes me.
That's my working week over, looking forward to my swim, sauna and steam room tomorrow, excercise defenately helps loads🦶🏊🏼♀️
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Hi everyone, I am looking for some advice/reassurance that some new strange sensations are all part of this horrible thing.
I have found it hard to sleep a few nights this week, have strange feelings in head, this might sound strange but I would describe it as a build up of tense feeling then a bomb going off which forces me open my eyes & lie there scared to try sleeping again.
I tell myself it's nothing but noteasy to believe myself.
Wondered if this could be cortisol/Adrenalin rushes?
Also yesterday and now I have stiff aching thumbs again, knees ache, boobs ache, reflux has been bad, my normal ranitidine not as effective, having to use antacid tablets as well.
Buzzing calves again and ache in stomach.
Was out on Thursday evening and had more Procceco than I should, probably only myself to blame. It was a very special occasion so pushed the boat out.😡🍾🍾.
Any advice or reassurance would be appreciated.
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JillM - your not alone - yep I recognise that feeling. Had it for quite a few years but I am lucky mine has gone although it took a long time to get to the bottom of the problem and then 7 months to get my hrt right. Now nearly all my symptoms of which there were about 15 really horrible ones, including those you describe have gone or on a scale of 1-10 now never get more than a 3. Sorry I didn't read your very first post so I don't know if you are on hrt, just starting, are having problems with it - must go and look! To reassure you those are all symptom of perimeno or post meno when symptoms are not under control - to be honest Meno is just the worst thing ever :(
Had acid reflux, joint pain all over, nausea and panic attacks. The being on "high alert" and shutting your eyes but you being in overdrive and your whole body straining was a pretty much a permanent feature in my meno.
Ladies here describe this buzzing feeling in their legs - I would described mine more like restless legs like you were getting little shocks all the time and cant keep them still. I stopped that with high magnesium, some high vitamin D - basically high level vitamin supplements. I have read a lot about restless leg syndrome and there is a school of thought it is caused by vitamin deficiency.
I cant drink alcohol at all now it makes me feel weird - really not sure why so cant offer any advice there other than I have felt bad for long enough so I just don't do anything I know doesn't agree with me any more - means I am a bit of a party pooper but hey ho! ;)
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Hi Ladybt28,
Thank you for your lovely reply. The horrible uptight, bomb in my head feeling is just rubbish. I panic and think I have something wrong in my head.
Have a slight sore head on and off since about Wed, slight blurry vision as well, my neck muscles are so stiff, probably coming from there.
I think that as I don't notice it when I am distracted, then it is probably not dangerous.
Did mention stabbing ice pick type pains in head and eyes to GP who didn't seem at all bothered.
Oh meant to say I am only using vagifem, no other HRT (yet).
Been taking a supplement called Pukka woman kind menopause, recommended by lady in Heath food store, I do think overall I am less uptight, will keep at them & see how it goes.
Thanks again for all your support❤️👍
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Hi Jill's,
I am having a wobble too. I have the exact symptoms you are describing right now. Tingling in my arms and legs. They sort of move around- more buzzing than anything, then the stiff neck thing I also have that, and I thought I was going crazy but yes sometimes blurry bison too. I have been in a right state. Not all about Vit D surely?? Is this meno? Seriously I have been thinking that this is the end!!
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Oh, and my face sometimes feels numb!!! Seriously think I'm on my way out.
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Hello Annierus3,
Thanks for your reassuring reply. I am so sorry you are suffering the same symptoms as me. It is really rubbish.
I really think the Pukka supplement is helping keep my anxiety under control.
I am still having symptoms, buzzing legs, night sweats, stabbing pains in head/eyes(I am putting these down to meno), my face sometimes feels numb, scalp and back of heads feels tight, this afternoon my left heel to half way down my foot was freezing cold (very strange)
Although I am still upset by these, a couple of weeks ago I would have been a wreck, convinced I have a brain tumour or my foot was going to fall off😂🤪.
Hope this is of some reassurance to you also❤️
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Yes it really does. Thank you for YOUR comforting reply. It's just hideous isn't it. Keep smiling x x
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Hi Annierus3,
Rubbish no brains day at work today, got myself a bit worked up and had slight numb face/blurred vision.
Told myself it was nothing more than anxiety and guess what it went away.
Legs are buzzing just now, but I am just ignoring it. If it was something serious I would not be able to go swimming twice a week, or walk the 2 mile home from work.
I hope I can keep a lid on the HA as I feel so much better.
Hope you and all other great girlies here are well and smiling😃😘😜
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What is the head thing and blurred vision about. It feels like my head is in a vice at the moment, buzzing, feels numb etc - I mean, surely this is not meno? Do you think it's s virus? I mean, I am trying not to think like it's something awful 😫😫
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Hi Annie,you need to take a deep breathe girl,anxiety is a dreadful thing,it causes all sorts of symptoms,numb face can be neuralgia,can cause all sorts including bad headache.meno itself?just take a look at funny side of menopause thread and things we have diagnosed ourselves with,I can assure you we've all been there.do something nice,like take a nice bubble bath and just slow yourself down.hugs xx
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I get headaches that feel like pressure on the left side , behind my ear and up the side of my head, sometimes so bad, it feels like my heads gonna explode.
Other times I get migraines, which maybe they all are, I don't know, but I think it's a side effect from the prog, in my hrt.
It's something I put up with, couldnt face all the other 10,000 symptoms of meno.. AGAIN...lol...
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Annierus3 - you mention the head in the vice thing and the blurred vision and "it cant be meno surely" all I can say is it was a major feature of my meno journey. It is so much more likely to be that than anything awful so you are right to try and put that out of your mind.
I ended up 4 years ago with a neurologist because I was getting what I call "broken lights" in my eyes particularly my left (looked like someone had smashed a greenhouse) and a strange numbness in my top lip - all arrived for no apparent reason.
Of course they didn't find anything and just to as part of the back story I have had left eye migraines since I was a teenager. Since being on my meno journey I discovered I have always had hormonal problems - who knew - well no one knew least of all the Dr's who kept prodding and pocking me and searching for various random symptoms.
Anyway, luckily for me after a huge and lengthy struggle these symptoms and others have certainly dialled down. The eye pain and numbness have not gone completely they still emerge when I am very stressed but on a scale of 1-10 they are now at a 4 with olny rare appearances.
check out the list of symptoms you can have with meno Annierus on the forum - type it in the search box. you will be gobsmacked as to the kinds of things that can happen and stuff you would never think of alongside the menopause but what it does do is stop some of the health anxiety because you realise they are meno symptoms and not some horrible condition (or 3!) which you have just developed - although it could be a virus :-X :) of course we all get them - but I betcha any money you like it is probably to do with meno.
Hope you feel better soon (if its a dreaded virus) meno ha that's a bit tricky sometimes ;)
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Gosh, what would i do without your posts and support. I am relaxing a little over it all. Yes, I accept it can be meno, this makes me feel so much better. Hormones hey!!!!
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Hi everyone,
Well my HA has been pretty much under control until today.
Here's a wee update, GP was most surprised that I still had a copper coil after 14 years and no periods for over 2.
This after I explained another GP in the practice said I should have my hormones checked again in 6 months.
This one insisted I was post meno and that it should be removed.
Two weeks ago I did what I was told, it hurt like hell.
Last week didn't feel right & GP sent a sample for testing & a swab.
GP surgery called today,
I have a urine infection & antibiotics.
That's not what's worrying me. 1 hour later they called back, I was to make a telephone appointment non-urgent with GP to discuss the swab results, couldn't get one till Friday.
Here I go again no idea what's wrong or even what she was testing for.
I am trying to convince myself if it was serious they would have seen me in person & not left it till end of the week to discuss in a phone call.
GP did an internal examination last week & thought all was OK.
I feel a restless night coming on😡
Thanks for letting me ramble on, it really does help to write it down.
Hope you are all well.
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Urgh - GP's go poking about and testing stuff without a bye your leave and never saying what the hell is going on!! They all need retraining on a regular basis and to practice their "patient conversations". (I'm not a big fan in case you hadnt gathered!! :-X)
I had copper coils and they were changed regularly, every 5 years I think - 14 years is a bit much though Jillm - no wonder it hurt!
The fact that they want a telephone appointment which is "non-urgent" means I dont think there is anything for you to worry about and you are right to convince yourself it's not serious - yes they would have called you if it was.
You ramble on - all this stuff is so much better out of our heads than going round and round like a washing machine. I cant say anything to make it go away or the findings to be told to you any sooner but worrying wont make you feel any better. Try and think some nice thoughts...when I am scared or worried (like when I have to go to the dentist) I build icecream cones in my head...hahha..sounds daft but I am imagining all the different colours and flavours and all the different cone "receipes" I can make up...heaven knows why... it is just my default "scared" thing!!! ;D ???
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Oh bless you. Isn't it awful. I hope you are ok, and, although I don't listen to my own advice, I m sure you will be fine - but keep us posted. I can do sympathize- here you go again on the rollercoaster of emotion, swinging between being able to hold it together and then thinking that ‘this is it'!!
Do let us know. I'll be thinking about you this week x x
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Hello, well GP called, nothing to worry about, The test shows I have the very common Strep B which will not harm me, but could any baby being born normally. Had to laugh that would be a miracle😂🤣
Just as well both my babies, one almost 23 & the other almost 17were born by section.
The only other thing is my cholesterol is 5.6. Said I would try to reduce this by diet and increase in excercise, will check again in 3 months.
GP not concerned, but my family history of Cardio vascular disease is not great, big plus in my favour,don't
smoke, never have, never will.
Decided against the Indian takeaway for tonight, my amazing daughter is cooking curry instead.
Hope everyone is well, lovely sunny day here in Edinburgh, should be our soaking in some vitD, but decorating daughters bedroom, house is a disaster zone, I'll try not stress(I hate mess)
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That's good news jillm,you can enjoy your weekend now😊 my cholesterol was about the same as yours,only slightly high,next time I got tested it was normal and I hadn't changed anything,I eat fairly healthily anyway,only different thing I did was buy that benecol marg.
Are you from Edinburgh? I'm originally Aberdeen,many a great weekend in Edinburgh 🤪
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Yup born and bred. It is a really special place. Went for a walk round the Old Town recently, it really is stunning, just don't appreciate what's on my door step. I should stop & look around me more often.
Only been to Aberdeen once I think I was about 10, so can't really remember much.
I do feel a lot more relaxed now we'll health wise anyway(unusual but a good feeling) As for the mess, it's Freaking me out😱
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I used to freak out over mess too but now?well,there are worse things in life,just close the door 😆
You're not missing much in Aberdeen,so don't worry, I live in Wiltshire now and Bath is very like Edinburgh,very historical and beautiful.princes street never did it for me,could be anywhere but the old part of Edinburgh where you find the quirky shops etc was fab,lots of happy memories
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I agree on Princes Street, whole load of not to great shops, but turn round and the view of the gardens and castle is amazing.
My Dad worked in Littlewoods in Princes Street and over heard a tourist saying how great it was that they built the castle next to the shops. He always found that very amusing.
Just having a bath, washing off the paint, more on me than on the woodwork, I hate glossing. Still keeps me busy and keeps my mind off my buzzing legs and aching knees🦵
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Haha,brilliant re the castle 😂🤣
Oh no no no, I don't like gloss either,put your feet up girl,have a glass of 🍷😊
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Thinking a nice big pink G&T🍹. Closest I could find to a gin glass
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😂mmmmmm lovely pink gin
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Morning,
Just to add to this thread ;) I continue to suffer the symptoms you describe, strange head feelings along with tingling/buzzing in my legs. I am post meno now age 60. Using 2 pumps of oestrogel with 7 days Northiterone every 6 weeks. I have tried to reduce my HRT but symptoms get even worse esp the strange head dizzy feeling. If I didn't have the spacey head feeling I'm sure I could cope better. Sometimes I don't want to leave the house...…. it's no life >:( who ever told me the menopause was on only about hot flushes!! I left my job last year due to how bad I was feeling.
Take Care Wxx
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Evening Warwick01
So sorry to hear you are suffering these horrible symptoms as well.
I am not on HRT other than vagifem. I have been taking vit D & magnesium supplement along with using a magnesium body butter. I am reluctant to say in case I jinx it, but the buzzing has improved so much in the last few days.
Head also improved recently other than I have been very dizzy, GP thinks it's a virus and prescribed a smashing wee tablet called prochlorperazine which stops the dizzy in it's tracks.
Not sure if it's meno or virus, I'm to go back in a couple of weeks, if it's not cleared up I'll discuss this as possible meno symptom.
Hope you feel better soon👍
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I used to be on prochlorperazine,it's other name is stemitil,if your dizziness is really bad you can take 2 three times a day,also stugeron is brilliant for dizziness & it's cheaper than a prescription 😏
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Hi Jaypo,
Thanks for the helpful info. I live in Scotland and in the very lucky position that our prescriptions are free.
Dizzy feeling is not as bad and I am trying only one tablet a day this week. Had a couple on woozy moments today, but better than last week😃👍
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Ha,lucky you,I'm Scottish but moved to England,nearly £9 per item😡
Did the dr not tell you to take them 3 times a day?normally takes a while for them to work,when I was super dizzy that's what I was taking but it wasn't helping so dr said take double,which I did and dizziness went almost immediately.its the pits isn't it?only time I had to take time off my work
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Thanks Jaypo, the dizzy has subsided for the time being. May be it was a virus after all. Just proves I shouldn't always jump to meno as the answer.
I managed with 1 to 2 of the tablets per day, still have some in case it comes back 😱.
Have an appointment next Thursday with GP to discuss this and to get more info on HRT.
It's all very confusing, pills, gel, patches- no idea which way to turn😡🤪😤
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Hi me again,
I need some advice from anyone using vagifem.
I started it in Oct last year and seemed to be ok, very happy with vaginal improvement.
But I gave been suffering with really bad stomach ache, gas, bloating and toilet issues.
Some of this is normal for me as I lost my gall bladder 3 1/2 years ago and have had toilet issues since then.
The stomach pain is awful, lower cramps, upper right side pain similar to gallbladder attac but not as severe.
Checked side effect of vagifem and it does say some of the above.
Has anyone else had these side effects.
As usual I am now panicking thinking it’s something serious as it’s continuing with no let up.
Any advice, reassurance would be great.
Please help.
I do have a GP appointment this afternoon and I am trying not to google
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The patient information leaflet for local oestrogen always gives the side effects for full (systemic) HRT, which is silly and the system needs updating. Local HRT should have its own leaflet but it doesn't yet. I don't believe local treatment is causing your symptoms. Good luck with your GP appointment, hope you feel better soon.
JP x
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Hi ladies,
Not posted for a wee while, was feeling a bit better, so just revelling I'm not feeling crap.
Shouldn't have been so cocky, having some more strange feelings and back to the edge of panic.
For the last week or so my legs muscles have been aching and tender to the touch in area just above my knees, outer thighs and lower calves. Also the buzzing/fizzing is back.
Yesterday I suddenly felt strange, buzzing nose, tight scalp and face, thought I might have a migraine but no pain, just a bit shaky and needed to lie down, this was in the afternoon and I needed to sleep.
This is so not me. Today at work I've had the buzzing nose again and horrible clogged throat which I haven't noticed for some weeks.
I am on the edge again, any thoughts and advice will be greatly appreciated, I don't have the follow up appointment with GP for 2 weeks, this is to check up on digestion GP says IBS.
Still on the verge of asking for HRT, has anyone had relief from sore legs with HRT?😡
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Oh I get those symptoms which are intermittent: right now both cheeks are well, like pins and needles - but I'm tired and I also have neck problems ....... in that it gets a bit stiff and sore - ageing?
My thighs feel weak but I know that I need to do more exercise. Sometimes I put my feet down but they don't finish where my brain intended them to ::) so I look drunk ........ it's so quickly that I have nowt to show a GP ::)
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Hi everyone,
Need some advice/reassurance on the buzzing legs which have been worse over the last week, skin on legs feels like it's prickling and tight a bit like sunburn, also buzzing/burning tongue is back.
I am trying to convince myself this is all down to estrogen, but the MS panic is never far away
Anybody else have similar symptoms, the legs especially left calve is driving me nuts🥜 😡🤬
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Hi Birdy,
Thanks for your reply, yes jumpy eye and upper lip intermittently. I have recently had buzzing nose and also I am sometimes aware of an all over buzzing feeling.
I know deep down that if it was MS it would most likely be only one side, but anxiety just takes over.
GP didn't have any answer other than a nerve problem and gave me AD's to help with nerve pain. Didn't take them after reading side effects & gave them back to chemist.
I need someone to tell me what's causing it, not cover up the symptoms.
Not knowing just fuels the anxiety.
Did your buzzing feeling ever go away, this has been ongoing since last November and I am sick of it.
Still not convinced it's not connected to vagifem, seems strange it all started just after I started it back late last October. Scared to stop I case I end up with more urinary tract infections, three last year. Just remembered also buzzy feeling on bottom of right foot, again not all the time and flushes have also returned in last couple of weeks.
Someone needs to have a word with Mother Nature, this stinks😡
Sorry for rambling on and thanks for listening💕
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Yes Birdy I hope you are right.
As I take ranitidine twice a day I think I may not be absorbing minerals correctly from food.
I do take a general magnesium, b6 vit d and calcium supplement.
After some googling (I know I shouldn't) I also think antacids can stop the absorption of Iron. I have started Feroglobin liquid to see if that helps, will bring this up with GP on Friday.
Go through Epsom salts like there's no tomorrow, found the cheapest to be in Morrisons £3.75 for a big bag.
I hope it all stops one day👍
Thanks for all your good advice, hope you are well😃
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Like you lots of weird feelings symptoms. I have silent reflux and saliva build up, muscle tension, anxiety etc. I've started PPI. Its difficult time but tell myself thisday will pass x.
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Yes, yes it will. Only hope it's sooner rather than later🥳🎉
Stay well, keep smiling and positive🤗
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Thanks Birdy,
I will bring it up with GP on Friday.
I really want to discuss long term use of ranitidine, I know PPI long term can cause calcium deficiency, not good for us ladies in memo. Not too sure if ranitidine has the same effect, won't be surprised if GP doesn't know either.
Find out on Friday
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Yeh need it for acid reflux, can't take omeperozole, makes me feel ill. 🤮🤑
I believe reduced acid can mean vitamins and minerals are not extracted from food as well. Did have bloods done few months back, apparently all within normal levels. I suspect won't be offered new tests just now.
Find out on Friday👍
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Hi ladies, I know this is an old thread, but I'm fairly new to the forum and I searched "buzzing feeling and weak muscles" and your posts came up. If you should happen to see this, I'd be really interested to know how you're getting on a few years down the line, as it would be so reassuring to know! It's so frustrating not knowing what's going on, and I'm sure that for most of us the anxiety makes everything so much worse. If we can at least think that it's a storm we just have to ride out, that's something. Is there light at the end of the tunnel?
Thanks!
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Hi there,yes,there's light at the end of the tunnel,think I'm through the worst of it now(hopefully) it was a rough ride at times and the anxiety and depression were the worst,not on HRT so can't really advise about that.The buzzing feeling can be the cortisol,which oestrogen normally controls,so when it dwindles,the cortisol has a mind of it's own,it's also why we get hot flushes.
Start a new thread if you'd like to ask a question :)