Fatigue

Menopause means something different to every woman. For some, it signals the end of heavy periods and painful cramps; for others it brings hot flashes and weight gain. For those who suffer from fatigue and/or migraines, menopause can be downright excruciating.

Fatigue is another serious symptom of menopause and, like other symptoms, is caused by hormonal imbalance. Often referred to as “crashing fatigue,” this level of exhaustion is complex and has numerous causes and triggers.

Women going through the menopause transition may experience a deep, physical exhaustion that makes them unable to maintain the same level of activity as before. But don’t confuse this with drowsiness, which means you want to go to sleep. Or with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, which also includes achy, flu-like symptoms.

The menopausal symptom known as “crashing fatigue” is characterized by sudden and overwhelming weakness. Crashing fatigue leaves many women so drained they’re unable to get out of bed, or they lie on the couch for hours unable to move. And bed rest typically does not improve it.

This debilitating lack of stamina impedes sufferers in their daily lives, and it can worsen if you attempt a physical and/or intense mental activity. A core level of tiredness makes many women feel depressed and hopeless. However, the condition can be alleviated with proper treatment.

Crashing Fatigue

The menopausal symptom known as “crashing fatigue” is characterized by sudden and overwhelming weakness.  But don’t confuse this with drowsiness, which means you want to go to sleep. Or with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, which also includes achy, flu-like symptoms.

Crashing fatigue has both mental and physical symptoms, which may happen concurrently.

Physical Characteristics include,

• Fatigue after eating
• Sudden fatigue
• Muscle fatigue
• Drowsiness

Mental Characteristics include,

• Decreased wakefulness
• Decreased attention
• Apathy
• Irritability
• Memory Lapses
• Trouble concentrating

Doc, Please Listen