Should I start HRT?

[Hottoffeesauce]

Early 50's, last period two years ago - ought I to ask for HRT? I'm always exhausted, achy joints, massively forgetful and very low/borderline depressed. But is this not just the way it is as I get older? I'm not having hot flushes, not ready to kill anyone/rages so is this ok? I have some other health issues (osteoarthritis and heart failure) so just presumed this was my lot. But could HRT help me? Would it make me worse? Has anyone else been in this position?

What have you got to lose? Give it a try. I don’t have hot flushes or rage either but have had other symptoms for years. After 10 months my hormone levels are still low but I am so much better than I was. Goodness knows what they were before!

A friend who didn't take it is now in proper osteoporosis territory despite weightbearing exercise and eating very well. She should really have been offered it as her mum has osteoperosis.

Also topical oestrogen for vagina etc seems to stop problems later one.

HRT and testosterone really helped with forgetsullnes, insomnia, very low mood and the exhaustion (probably because sleeping better). I thought it was just getting old, it wasn't, it was my hormones having left the building.

I've started exercising again, I'm more engaged at work, socialising more. More like old me.

One of the most important things HRT has done for me is sort my low/borderline depression. I would say it's definitely worth a try for that alone - but do NOT let yourself get fobbed off with antidepressants, the achy joints/brain fog are symptoms of menopause.

But is this not just the way it is as I get older?

No! Definitely not unless you were 80.

You're 52!

You have another 30 years or more.

HRT will help osteoarthritis, as it preserves collagen which is around the joints.

It is also known to benefit the heart (prevent/reduce CVD if used within 10 years of the last period) although it can't obviously reverse damage already there.

Try it for 6 months and see how you feel.

I didn't say I was 52? 🤔

Thanks all. I guess I've felt 'old' for a few years now and part of me just thinks this is how it is for me. I'll have a chat with the GP and go from there. I'm guessing/presuming that HRT won't interfere with heart failure medication which would be most important.I would love to not feel so old and 'low' all the time. I can't remember the last time I felt positive and genuinely happy. As you say, what have I got to lose?

Oops @Hottoffeesauce sorry for saying you were 52. For some very odd reason I read 'early 50s' and 'two years post meno' and somehow my brain came up with 52! I've either made you a year younger or older!