Chronic Fatigue and Menopause

Hot flashes and mood swings might be commonly associated with menopause but if you are a slightly more mature woman asking yourself, “Why am I so tired all the time?”, it could be menopausal fatigue.

Hormone imbalances during middle age can have many women struggling to get a good night’s sleep and experiencing low energy levels during the day.  Hormone replacement therapy may help by restoring hormone levels but there are also lifestyle changes that can increase energy and fight fatigue.

If too many late nights out on the town aren’t the reason you are constantly exhausted, unable to concentrate or feeling defeated by a lack of physical and mental energy there are small steps you can take to make a change for the better.

Tips for Fighting Fatigue

• Eliminate caffeine – swap that cup of coffee for green tea or water – dehydration can lead to  fatigue
• Regular exercise can increase energy levels and help you get a better night’s sleep
• Keep an eye on portion control – heavy meals can make you feel too full and tired
• When hot flashes keep you tossing and turning at night, have a fan at the ready to cool off quickly
• Develop a good sleep routine with regular sleep and wake times and a dark, quiet, cool room.
• Minimize alcohol; it can leave you feeling even more tired
• Find a way to reduce stress which can worsen fatigue – try meditation, yoga or journaling
• Try not to overbook yourself, leave time each day for self care

Early menopause has been linked with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome;  talk with your doctor if fatigue is taking a serious toll on your quality of life.  Fatigue can also be a symptom of hypothyroidism, sleep apnea and anemia.  To learn more about menopause and symptom relief visit the Office on Women’s Health website by following this link.