What are the common signs of mono. How is mononucleosis transmitted. Why does mono cause fatigue and swollen lymph nodes. Can mono lead to complications. How long do mono symptoms typically last.

Understanding Mononucleosis: The “Kissing Disease”

Mononucleosis, commonly known as “mono” or the “kissing disease,” is a viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its romantic nickname, mono is not exclusively transmitted through kissing. This infectious illness can spread through various means, primarily involving the exchange of saliva.

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the most common cause of mono, attacking white blood cells and potentially leading to a range of symptoms. Interestingly, once infected, the virus remains in your cells indefinitely, though recurrences are rare.

How Prevalent is Mononucleosis?

Mono is surprisingly common, affecting approximately 95% of people at some point in their lives. In fact, by the age of five, about half of all children in the United States have already contracted the virus. While mono can affect people of all ages, it is most frequently diagnosed in adolescents and young adults.

The Transmission of Mononucleosis: Beyond Kissing

Contrary to popular belief, mono can spread through various means beyond romantic encounters. The virus is primarily transmitted through saliva, which means activities such as coughing, sneezing, or sharing personal items can lead to infection.

• Sharing drinks or food utensils
• Using the same toothbrush
• Coughing or sneezing in close proximity
• Kissing or intimate contact

While mono is less contagious than the common cold, it’s essential to be aware of these transmission methods to reduce the risk of infection.

7 Key Symptoms of Mononucleosis

Recognizing the symptoms of mono is crucial for early diagnosis and proper treatment. Here are seven important signs that you might have contracted mononucleosis:

1. Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swollen lymph nodes are a common indicator of mono. These small, bean-shaped glands are part of your body’s immune system and can be found in various locations, including under your jaw, in your armpits, and along your neck.

When your body is fighting an infection like mono, lymph nodes may become enlarged as they work to filter out harmful substances. This swelling is particularly noticeable in the neck area for mono patients.

2. Enlarged Spleen

An enlarged spleen is another potential symptom of mononucleosis. The spleen, which is part of the lymphatic system, plays a crucial role in fighting infections and keeping your blood clean. When battling mono, the spleen may become swollen as it produces antibodies to combat the virus.

While an enlarged spleen is a sign that your immune system is working hard, it’s important to be cautious. Vigorous physical activities or contact sports should be avoided to prevent potential rupture of the swollen organ.

3. Swollen Tonsils and Sore Throat

Mono often causes inflammation in the throat area, leading to swollen tonsils and a sore throat. This discomfort can range from mild to severe and may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing.

The swelling of tonsils is a result of your body’s immune response to the viral infection. In some cases, the inflammation can be severe enough to cause breathing difficulties, especially during sleep.

4. Skin Rashes

While not as common as other symptoms, some individuals with mono may develop skin rashes. These rashes can resemble measles and typically affect about 5% of mono patients.

If you notice an unusual rash along with other mono symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

5. Fever

A fever is a common symptom of many viral infections, including mononucleosis. When your body detects the presence of the Epstein-Barr virus, it may raise its internal temperature as a defense mechanism.

This increase in body temperature can help neutralize the virus, as many pathogens are sensitive to temperature changes. While a mild fever can be beneficial in fighting the infection, severe or prolonged fevers should be monitored by a healthcare provider.

6. Unexplained Fatigue

One of the hallmark symptoms of mono is extreme fatigue that seems disproportionate to your daily activities. This overwhelming tiredness can persist for weeks or even months after other symptoms have subsided.

The fatigue associated with mono can be attributed to several factors:

• The body’s energy-intensive immune response to the virus
• Disrupted sleep patterns due to other symptoms like sore throat or fever
• Potential breathing difficulties caused by swollen tonsils and lymph nodes

7. Night Sweats

Night sweats, or excessive sweating during sleep, can be an indicator of mononucleosis. This symptom may occur for various reasons related to the infection:

1. As a side effect of fever and the body’s attempt to regulate temperature
2. Due to sleep disturbances caused by other mono symptoms
3. As a result of the immune system’s vigorous response to the virus

While night sweats can be uncomfortable, they are generally not a cause for immediate concern unless accompanied by other severe symptoms.

Potential Complications of Mononucleosis

While mono is typically not a severe illness, it can lead to complications in some cases. Understanding these potential risks is crucial for proper management of the condition.

Secondary Infections

Mono can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to secondary infections. Common complications include:

• Strep throat
• Tonsillitis
• Sinus infections

These secondary infections may require additional treatment, such as antibiotics, to resolve.

Spleen Rupture

In rare cases, the enlarged spleen associated with mono can rupture. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. To prevent this complication, doctors often advise patients to avoid contact sports and strenuous physical activities for several weeks after diagnosis.

Liver Issues

Mono can occasionally affect liver function, leading to mild liver inflammation or hepatitis. While this is usually temporary and resolves on its own, it’s important to monitor liver function during recovery.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Mononucleosis

Proper diagnosis and treatment of mono are essential for managing symptoms and preventing complications. Here’s what you need to know about the diagnostic process and treatment options:

Diagnostic Methods

Doctors typically diagnose mono through a combination of physical examination and laboratory tests. Common diagnostic tools include:

• Blood tests to check for abnormal white blood cell counts
• Monospot test to detect specific antibodies associated with EBV infection
• EBV antibody test for more accurate diagnosis

Treatment Approaches

There is no specific cure for mono, as it is caused by a virus. Treatment primarily focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the body’s natural healing process. Common treatment strategies include:

1. Rest and adequate sleep to support the immune system
2. Pain relievers and fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
3. Staying hydrated to help the body fight the infection
4. Gargling with salt water to soothe a sore throat
5. Avoiding strenuous activities to prevent complications

In most cases, mono symptoms improve within a few weeks, although fatigue may persist for several months.

Prevention and Long-Term Outlook

While it’s challenging to completely prevent mono due to its prevalence and the fact that many people carry the virus without symptoms, certain precautions can help reduce the risk of transmission:

• Avoid sharing personal items like utensils, glasses, and toothbrushes
• Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing
• Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Avoid close contact with individuals who have active mono infections

Long-Term Prognosis

For most people, the long-term outlook after mono is positive. While the virus remains in the body, recurrences are rare. However, some individuals may experience prolonged fatigue or a weakened immune system for several months after the initial infection.

In rare cases, EBV has been associated with the development of certain cancers and autoimmune disorders. However, it’s important to note that the vast majority of people who contract mono do not experience these long-term complications.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While mono often resolves on its own, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. Seek help if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain, which could indicate a ruptured spleen
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Persistent high fever
• Extreme weakness or inability to function in daily life
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure proper management of symptoms.

Living with Mononucleosis: Tips for Recovery

Recovering from mono can be a challenging process, but there are several strategies you can employ to support your body and manage symptoms effectively:

Prioritize Rest

Adequate rest is crucial for recovery from mono. Listen to your body and allow yourself to sleep as much as needed. This may mean taking time off from work or school to focus on healing.

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration supports your immune system and helps manage symptoms like fever and sore throat. Aim to drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths.

Maintain a Nutritious Diet

While you may not have much appetite, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can support your body’s healing process. Soft, easy-to-swallow foods may be preferable if you have a sore throat.

Gradual Return to Activities

As you start feeling better, gradually reintroduce normal activities into your routine. Avoid overexertion, and be patient with your body’s recovery process.

Emotional Support

The prolonged fatigue and limitations associated with mono can be emotionally challenging. Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if needed.

By understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and recovery process for mononucleosis, you can better navigate this common but often misunderstood illness. Remember, while mono can be uncomfortable and disruptive, most people make a full recovery with proper care and patience.

7 Signs You Might Have Mono That You Definitely Shouldn’t Ignore

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7 Signs You Might Have Mono That You Definitely Shouldn’t Ignore

Feb. 16, 2018

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It’s called the kissing disease, which makes mono sound a lot more romantic than it really is. According to the Mayo Clinic, mononucleosis is spread through saliva, meaning you can be exposed to it from kissing, coughing, sneezing, or sharing items like glasses, utensils, and toothbrushes. The common cold is more contagious, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be on the lookout for signs you might have mono — which, confusingly, look a lot like the symptoms of other illnesses.

Mono is a sneaky little thing. ABC News says it affects roughly 95 percent of us at some point in our lives. In fact, by five years old, half of the children in this country will get it. Mono is often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, which attacks white blood cells; and here’s the kicker: once you get it, it stays in your cells for. ev.er. There is one upside, though, even though you always carry the virus: the University of Michigan’s University Health Service says you’re not likely to feel the effects of mono a second time.

It all might sound like a death sentence, but Healthline assures us it’s usually not all that serious. However, if it lingers, mono can also cause strep, tonsillitis, and sinus infections. Either way, being sick stinks; and the best you can do is familiarize yourself with the symptoms of mono so you can catch them early on. Here are seven of them.

1

Swollen Lymph Nodes

According to Healthline, your lymph nodes filter a fluid called lymph as it travels through your lymphatic system. These glands are like a “checkpoint”: if a bacteria or virus tries to pass, your lymph nodes will work to stop it. When the glands do encounter some kind of infection, they collect bacteria and sick or dead cells. As a result, they become swollen. So, swollen lymph nodes are a sign that your body is working hard to feel better. You have lymph nodes throughout your body, like under your jaw on both sides, your armpits, and in your neck. The glands typically become swollen where your infection is lingering, which is why swollen neck glands are common with mono.

2

A Swollen Spleen

Since the spleen is part of the lymphatic system, it’s no surprise that this organ can also become swollen when you have mono. Like the lymph nodes, the spleen works to fight off infections and viruses, explains Dr. Axe. Namely, it produces antibodies to fight the bad germs, and also helps keep blood clean. A swollen spleen can indicate your immune system is working overtime to keep you healthy, but is having a hard time keeping up.

3

Swollen Tonsils And A Sore Throat

Enlarged tonsils are a side effect of infection in the human body. Unsurprisingly, this symptom is often kept company by swollen lymph nodes and many other signs indicative of mono, according to MedicineNet. It’s also common to experience a sore throat, which typically results from a viral infection, says the Mayo Clinic — and mono is a viral infection.

4

Rashes

Rashes are a documented symptom of viral infections, explains MedlinePlus — although they might not be that common. According to OnHealth, only about five percent of people with mono have rashes covering their bodies. If you see something resembling the measles, though, you could be part of the small percentage.

5

Fever

So many of the symptoms of mono are a sign that your body is working — and probably successfully — to rid itself of the infection. A fever is no different. Medical News Today explains that your body raises its temperature so the immune system can fight an infection, because it works to neutralize the virus. This is because certain bacteria and viruses are especially sensitive to changes in temperature, says HowStuffWorks. For this reason, a mild fever might actually be in your favor. (Severe ones, however, warrant a trip to the doctor.)

6

Unexplained Fatigue

You know by now that mono can come with swollen tonsils and lymph nodes in your neck. Because the swelling causes a narrowing of your throat, your breathing is more obstructed, especially when you’re sleeping. It’s even worse during deep sleep when your muscles are relaxed, and also if you’re sleeping on your back, explains Dr. Steven Park. As a result, you might have extra difficulty sleeping due to breathing problems. This is one likely explanation for why mono is often accompanied by extreme tiredness.

7

Night Sweats

There are a couple reasons night sweats could be a sign of mono. For starters, it’s a possible side effect of sleeping problems. For instance, some people who have sleep apnea also suffer from night sweats, according to the Mayo Clinic. As explained, mono is sometimes accompanied by sleeping difficulty, and thus could cause profuse sweating at night.

Secondly, night sweats can occur whenever an illness also involves a fever, according to research by Lawrence Dall and James F. Stanford — which mono very well might.

What Are The Stages Of Mono? Signs, Symptoms, & Treatment

Infectious mononucleosis, or mono, is a contagious disease that many people contract at some point in their life. Mono usually comes in three phases, and each one can impact individuals differently.

If you have recently been diagnosed with mono or suspect that you might have caught it from someone, then determining which stage of mono you’re in will help you determine whether you might be contagious to others. It will also guide your recovery.

In this article, we’ll look at the main causes and symptoms of infectious mononucleosis to help you determine whether you have contracted it.

We’ll also discuss the three different stages of mono and characterize them to help guide your recovery and prevent you from infecting others. 

Causes of Mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis is most often caused by a virus of the herpes family called Epstein-Barr, but a small percentage of mono cases can be caused by other viruses.

Mono is also called ‘the kissing disease’ because it is transmitted from person to person through saliva, such as when kissing. While anyone can get it, it is most common in children, young adults, and college students.

A first-time infection is less common in adults over the age of 40, though many older people acquired it when they were younger, and the virus may now be present, inactive, in their body. Since the virus is transmitted through saliva, contact with items containing saliva such as toothbrushes, utensils, and cigarettes would put others at risk of contracting it.

If someone with mono shares these items with others, it is possible that the disease would be passed on to them.

It can also be passed on through other bodily fluids such as blood, semen, and breast milk, though this is a less common transmission mode.

Other situations where mono can be transmitted, though far more rarely, include blood transfusions and organ transplants. 

Symptoms

Most people who contract mono, especially at a young age, often don’t even realize that they have it and will carry the virus in their bodies for the rest of their lives, where it remains dormant and doesn’t cause any symptoms.

If the virus reactivates at some point in your life, you may notice some common symptoms of infectious mononucleosis symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Swollen or sore lymph nodes
• Skin rash
• Body aches and headaches
• Sore and scratchy throat
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue

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Stages of Mono 

Infectious mononucleosis generally has three noticeable stages.

In each stage, the infection can cause different symptoms and health concerns for each affected person. 

Stage 1: Prodrome

The first stage of mono is when symptoms first begin to appear. This is also called the prodrome stage.

It may take four to six weeks after the initial contact for symptoms to show up, making it very difficult to know when the mono-infection began.

The prodrome stage can last from a few days to one or two weeks. Often, a person may go through the prodrome phase without showing any symptoms at all.  

The most telling sign of this period is a feeling of fatigue.

If you have low energy or are feeling a bit ‘off’, then it is best to stay home and rest and keep away from others regardless of whether you think you have mono or any other disease.

This will ensure that you give your body time to recover and prevent passing on anything to others. 

Stage 2: Acute Phase

The second stage of mono, which is called the acute phase, is when symptoms may start to show up or worsen.

Again, not everyone will suffer from the same symptoms, but you may feel that your sore throat is getting worse and your fever getting higher.

Swollen glands and aches in the body are also more common at this stage, as is worsening fatigue.

The acute phase of mono can last two to six weeks. 

Stage 3: Convalescent Phase

The convalescent, or final phase of mono, occurs when a person starts to recover.

This stage can last between three to six months, and you will start feeling better with little or no symptoms fairly quickly.

Some people do feel weak or tired during this period and for long after this, but most symptoms would be resolved by this time. 

During this recovery period, there is still a risk that your spleen could rupture, so it is important to get plenty of rest and to stay away from strenuous activity. 

Prevention

The best way to prevent contracting infectious viruses like EBV, which causes infectious mononucleosis, is to limit contact with others, especially with their saliva, particularly if they are sick or have been recently around others who are sick.

Ways to prevent and curb the spread of mono:

• Wash hands and items that touch your mouth and face regularly
• If you notice that you or anyone around you show symptoms of mono or any ailment, stay isolated from others
• Do not share personal items such as utensils, toothbrushes, and cigarettes
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet and plenty of exercises
• Take extra safety and hygiene precautions when meeting with vulnerable people like the elderly and small children

Risk Factors

Almost anyone can be at ‘risk’ of contracting infectious mononucleosis, but it is usually not a cause for concern for people with healthy immune systems.

Those living with autoimmune diseases are more at risk for complications due to any virus.

Your doctor will advise you whether you’re at high risk of mono or not.

If you are suffering from other more serious medical conditions, then reach out to your healthcare provider for advice immediately. 

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Long-Term Effects

Since mono and EBV leave your immune system compromised, you may find that your body is prone to catching other illnesses more easily.

However, if you maintain a healthy lifestyle and take good care of yourself, this risk can be decreased. 

Some studies show that mono may lead to chronic fatigue syndrome, leaving you feeling tired for long periods.

Other studies show that mono and EBV could lead to multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune diseases and lymphomas, though this association is still being studied. 

If you are concerned about the potential long-term implications of mono, talk to your doctor or reach out to one of our healthcare experts, who can help put this in perspective.

Treatment 

Since infectious mononucleosis is caused by EBV, which is a virus, it has no cure.

Although there is no vaccine to prevent mono and no medication to cure it, most of the symptoms can be treated and kept under control using at-home remedies and over-the-counter medications.

Make sure that you get at least six to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep so that your body has plenty of time to recover.

Drink plenty of liquids to keep your body hydrated and eat nutritious and well-balanced meals. 

The CDC also recommends that you do not take part in any contact sports until you fully recover.

This is because mono often causes your spleen to enlarge, putting it at a significantly higher than normal risk for rupturing. Your doctor may prescribe painkillers and vitamins to aid in your recovery from mono.

When to See a Medical Provider

If your mono symptoms last for longer than 10 days or you have a severe sore throat for more than two days and think it is getting worse, make an appointment with a healthcare practitioner.

Your doctor may conduct some tests to rule out other illnesses, such as strep throat or influenza. 

If you have trouble breathing or your fever is not subsiding after several days, then reach out to your doctor.

Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately if you feel sharp and sudden pain in your side or abdomen. 

How K Health Can Help

Most cases of mono are not serious. However, symptoms like extreme fatigue, sore throat, and body aches can affect your daily life.

Did you know you can access online urgent care with K Health?

Check your symptoms, explore conditions and treatments, and if needed, text with a healthcare provider in minutes. 

K Health’s AI-powered app is based on 20 years of clinical data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there stages of mono?

Yes, there are three main stages for mono. The first one is the prodrome stage, followed by the acute stage, and the convalescent or recovery stage is the third and last stage of mono.

What is the timeline for mono?

Mono usually comes in three stages for most people. The timeline can vary between individuals. The first stage (prodrome) can last up to two weeks. The second stage of mono (acute phase) can last up to six weeks. The final and third stage of mono (convalescent stage), can last several months. Hence, the timeline for mono can be 8-12 months long.

How do you know if your mono is getting better?

You will know if your mono diagnosis is getting better when your symptoms start to subside. If your fever stops, your chest clears up, and you feel more energetic, then you are likely on your way to recovery.

What is the last stage of mono?

The convalescent or recovery period of mono is the third and last stage of mono. Your body will still feel tired, and you may face bouts of weakness, but you will slowly be easing yourself from other symptoms. This stage of mono can last three to six months, if not more.

K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

K Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions,
and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

• About Infectious Mononucleosis. (2020).
  https://www.cdc.gov/epstein-barr/about-mono.html#prevention

• Acute Epstein–Barr virus infection in two elderly individuals. (2006).
  https://academic.oup.com/ageing/article/35/2/196/27957

• Chronic viral infections in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). (2018).
  https://translational-medicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12967-018-1644-y

• Epstein-Barr Virus Found to Trigger Multiple Sclerosis. (2022).
  https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/epstein-barr-virus-found-to-trigger-multiple-sclerosis

• Infectious mononucleosis. (2015).
  https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1038/cti.2015.1

• Spontaneous splenic rupture resulted from infectious mononucleosis. (2012).
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3267253/

Not only hot flashes: a gynecologist named 4 reasons why women over 40 suddenly throw in a fever

• Health

the climax begins. However, according to the doctor, there are other reasons for this condition.

January 17, 20231

Source:

IStockphoto

According to obstetrician-gynecologist Yekaterina Volkova, it is easy for women after 40 to confuse a sudden feeling of heat with the onset of menopause and the so-called hot flashes. As a rule, at this age, women tend to attribute such symptoms to the approaching menopause. However, not everything is so clear.

The doctor in her telegram channel told what can be confused with hot flashes in women 40+. Here are 4 possible reasons.

1. Hypertensive crisis

There are “hot” crises, when the face turns red against the background of high blood pressure, there is an internal tremor, a feeling of warmth in the body.

Check your blood pressure to see if it’s a crisis. The norm of blood pressure is not more than 140/90 mmHg. If the pressure is higher, consult a cardiologist, conduct an ECG.

2.

Hyperthyroidism

Feeling hot is a possible sign of an overactive thyroid gland. In hyperthyroidism, a feeling of heat can be replaced by chills, anxiety.

In this case, it is important to assess the function of the thyroid gland. It is also useful to donate blood for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and do an ultrasound of the thyroid gland.

3. Blood sugar spikes

Blood sugar spikes may cause sweating, trembling, dizziness. This occurs when:

You can determine this cause if you take a fasting blood test for glucose and insulin.

4. Panic attacks

Unlike hot flashes, panic attacks are preceded by feelings of fear and then followed by sweat and heat.

In this case, you will need to consult a neurologist who will help you figure out where the “border” is. You may also need to talk to a psychotherapist.

How real hot flashes appear

— How are real hot flashes different? This feeling of heat in the upper part of the body, and nothing more. That is, in the area of ​​the face, chest, back – everything else is “cold” , – explained Ekaterina Volkova.

To more accurately determine whether the emerging feeling of heat is associated with ovarian failure and hot flashes, you can use a blood test for female hormones – l uteinizing ( LH ) and follicle-stimulating (FSH) hormones, estradiol. And if there are deviations from the norm, seek help from a gynecologist.

Read also

How to understand that menopause is approaching

According to the endocrinologist Dilyara Lebedeva, in fact, the harbingers of menopause can appear in 5-8 years. The doctor called the signals of the body that warn about this.

1. Change in cycle regularity . At the very beginning of the “menopausal transition” – approximately 2-5-8 years before menopause, delays can be about 5-7 days, in the future – up to 60 or more days.

2. Reduced menstruation . If habitually they lasted 6 days for you, then they will gradually be reduced to 3 days, for example. There will also be noticeably less discharge.

3. Change in basal temperature curve . Before menopause, at the beginning of the cycle, the basal temperature is usually lower than in the second half, there are also “peaks” – for example, at the beginning of ovulation. In the “menopausal transition” the curve will flatten out – the peaks and other changes will not be as noticeable.

4. Occurrence of other symptoms . Sometimes you may feel hot flashes, for no apparent reason, excess weight will appear, which is difficult to lose. Sleep problems, depression, mood swings, decreased libido, vaginal dryness, muscle flabbiness are also possible.

Text author: Anastasia Romanova

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ᐉ How to get rid of hot flashes during menopause and alleviate them

Menopause (monopause) is one of the periods in a woman’s life, which is characterized by a decrease in estrogen production and a “turn off” of childbearing function. This is a natural process and is not a disease.

Ebb and flow – why different intensity

Every woman experiences this special period differently. For some, it goes almost unnoticed, only the complete absence of menstruation indicates the onset of menopause. But for others, the period of menopause may be accompanied by unpleasant physical symptoms, which can also provoke emotional discomfort.

Why is this happening? There are a number of factors that can influence the severity of symptoms. The first thing to remember is that every woman is special and has her own individual physiology.

Also note the following:

• Hereditary factors;
• Diseases of the reproductive system;
• Diseases of a nervous nature;
• Other chronic diseases.

Therefore, in any case, to help yourself endure the symptoms of menopause more easily, you need to seek advice from your doctor. It is the doctor who will determine how intensely the menopause manifests itself and by what means it is worth helping yourself

Severities

Three degrees of severity of menopause are usually classified:

1. Less than 10 flushes a day is safe;
2. 10-20 flushes per day – moderate;
3. More than 20 flushes – severe stage.

In addition, the doctor will take into account your heredity and signs of hot flashes:

• Redness of the skin of the face, neck, décolleté;
• Sticky sweat;
• Peculiar odour;
• Dizziness;
• Tingling of the skin of the face, shoulders and other parts of the body.

In severe forms may appear:

• Headaches;
• Fainting;
• Nervous breakdowns without cause;
• Short-term and long-term loss of consciousness and so on.

Methods for alleviating or eliminating unpleasant symptoms in menopause

Depending on the degree of manifestation of menopause, each woman will be assigned individual methods that will help get rid of hot flashes during menopause.

If the doctor diagnoses a safe form of manifestation of a lack of hormones, then it is quite possible to get by with folk remedies – the use of teas, infusions, which include plants containing phytoestrogen. The most common plants of this type include:

• cimicifugu
• yams;
• pueraria;
• horsetail;
• hop cone extract

The amount and concentration of the decoction will also be determined by the doctor.

If the form of hot flashes during menopause is more serious, non-hormonal preparations can be prescribed, also based on natural elements – extracts from plants or animal origin.

For loss of consciousness during hot flashes, hormones are prescribed:

• Tablets;
• By drip;
• Injection.

Unconventional methods to relieve hot flashes

There is another layer of assistance to women in menopause – the so-called alternative medicine. Methods also different:

• Acupuncture;
• Massage;
• Breathing exercises;
• Physical activity;
• Yoga etc.

But to resort to such forms of help to get rid of hot flashes during menopause, you need to be extremely careful and only after consulting with your doctor.