The Cleveland Clinic lists exhaustion as one of the common symptoms of menopause. But this particular symptom isn't necessarily a result of the hormonal changes associated with this phase in life. Unlike hot flashes, mood swings and menstrual irregularities, this feeling of fatigue or exhaustion is most likely linked to other symptoms that inevitably drain your energy.
Menopause
As defined by the Mayo Clinic, menopause is the end of menstruation and fertility in women. During this time, the female body begins to produce fewer viable eggs, causing a decline in fertility. The decline in fertility is accompanied by a decrease in the production of both estrogen and progesterone. It's this change in hormone levels that has the greatest impact on the body, resulting in the symptoms of menopause.
Symptoms
When a woman goes through menopause, she experiences a number of symptoms. These symptoms vary from individual to individual, but usually include hot flashes, menstrual irregularities, mood swings and sleep disruptions. You can also suffer from depression, irritability, anxiety, headaches, joint pain and muscle aches. The Mayo Clinic warns that these emotional and physical effects can eventually take a toll on energy levels, resulting in exhaustion.
Exhaustion
The most significant symptom that plays a role in this feeling of exhaustion is hot flashes. Hot flashes occur any time throughout the day. But when you experience a hot flash at night, it can actually wake you from your sleep. Your sheets, pillowcase and pajamas may be damp with sweat. This is often accompanied by a racing heartbeat, pressure in the head and an overwhelming sensation of heat, all of which can make it difficult for you to get a good night's sleep, which translates into fatigue or exhaustion.
Treatment
Treatment for the exhaustion associated with menopause involves alleviating the other symptoms accompanying this condition. This often includes hormone therapy, according to the Cleveland Clinic. This process supplements both estrogen and progesterone in the body, allowing for a balance in hormone levels. Some doctors also prescribe antidepressants, bisphosphonates, clonidine or gabapentin. When hormone levels are in better balance, symptoms ease in frequency and intensity, which can decrease exhaustion and fatigue.
Considerations
Beside medical intervention, you can reduce the signs of exhaustion due to menopause by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes a well-balanced diet and daily exercise. The Mayo Clinic recommends a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. You should also limit your intake of saturated fat, trans-fatty acid and sugar. In addition to these dietary changes, consider supplementing your diet with calcium and vitamin D. Exercise entails at least 30 minutes of moderately intense activities most days of the week, such as biking, swimming or brisk walking.
