Perimenopause/menopause is making my life difficult

[Notcontent]

I am pretty sure I am in the full swings of perimenopause or menopause. For a while I was having symptoms like less regular and heavy periods and feeling more emotional than usual (including feelings of rage).

But for about three months now I am increasingly feeling it really hard to focus at work (I think it’s that famous brain fog). I am also constantly feeling completely exhausted. Over Christmas I had a bit of time off and so felt better but that’s because I was sleeping for 10 hours a night and not doing much - just fresh air and rest. But my normal life is juggling home life (alone) and a job which is quite intellectually demanding and I am struggling.

I also constantly have a low level headache and I think the hot flushes have started. Not drenched in sweat but just waves of feeling hot - even though I usually really feel the cold. Also a bit achy like I am coming down with something - but I am not.

I welcome any advice. HRT?

Of course HRT. It's a lifesaver. Go to a private peri/menopause clinic if you can.

Thank you. I think I will.

I feel like it’s still a taboo subject in many work places, particularly that to say that I am struggling with focus would basically be like saying I am not up to the job anymore and should be replaced with someone younger. But I am only in my late 40s. 😧

My peri started at 40, op. I've been on HRT for 8 years. Be proactive and get the help you need. Also, take a hard look at your diet. Some small changes can make a huge difference.

Thanks @Aquamarine1029. Fortunately I am able to see someone privately. Is it patched that they usually recommend?

Patches not patched!!

It depends. There are so many types of HRT. pills. Patches. Gels. Implants.

I am about to start HRT (waiting for it to arrive). I will have to ask on here next week what to expect. It can’t be worse than my current state of ghastliness. Can it?

I won't have HRT because I have had breast cancer. I am definitely peri/menopausal since treatment. I've not noticed particularly bad brain fog although my memory isn't quite as sharp as when I was younger (used to remember an amazing amount of mostly useless information). I do exercise a lot though (run 10k a day plus walk 5k and do resistance exercises). I think there have been studies that show exercise helps with blood flow to the brain and everywhere else really. Anyway, considering menopause is supposed to be quite severe after cancer treatment my symptoms have been pretty manageable. Few, not particularly unpleasant, warm flushes and dryish sometimes sensitive skin.

So I believe exercise might help. Worth a go, HRT or not. I find it increases energy levels too.

Yes, it is pretty ghastly.

It’s come as a bit of a shock to me as I think I was in denial about it. Until recently I felt (and looked I think) young, fit and healthy and now feel like my body has somehow let me down.

@hihellohihello I hope you are ok now. I did lots of exercise in the past so sounds like it’s time to start again.

First see your GP who will organise blood tests to check your hormone levels. What you describe does sound like peri but there are other things that could cause similar, thyroid problems for example.

When you have the results, you can explore options. In the meantime try to stay as healthy as you can; eat well, drink water, avoid alcohol and do moderate exercise. Rest as much as you can when not at work. Remember you will not be the only person at work to feel as you do.

Having been through the menopause many years ago I can confidently say, these things pass and you will feel great afterwards. However I'm aware that is not much help to you at the moment.

You are still the same person, op.

Thanks @Notcontent and so far so good!👍 I actually feel better than before treatment as I was overweight with a bad back. Both those problems have gone, I look and feel much better. I am nearly 4 years post treatment and have had 'all clears' so far. I'm now the size and weight as I was as a teenager. My doctors have been very encouraging with regard to my running - say it is shown to improve outcomes after treatment.

That’s great to hear @hihellohihello

Thanks Bromse.