Stay Healthy Throughout Menopause
To stay healthy you can make some changes in the way you live. For example:
$ Don’t smoke.
$ Eat a healthy diet that is low in fat and cholesterol and moderate in total fat. Your diet should ­aim to be high in fiber and include fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain foods. It should also be well balanced in vitamins and minerals, including calcium.
$ Lose weight if you are overweight.
$ Take part in weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, jogging, running, or dancing, at least 3 days each week.
$ Take medicine to lower your blood pressure if your doctor prescribes it for you.
$ For vaginal discomfort, use a water-based vaginal lubricant (not petroleum jelly) or an estrogen cream.
$ If you frequently feel an urgent need to urinate, ask your doctor about techniques such as pelvic muscle exercises, biofeedback, and bladder training that can help you improve muscle control.
$ Be sure to get regular pelvic and breast exams, Pap tests, and mammograms. Contact
your doctor right away if you notice a lump in your breast.
$ If you are having hot flashes, keep a diary to track when they happen. You may be able to use this information to help find out what triggers them.
$ Try these tips to help manage hot flashes:
o When a hot flash starts, go somewhere cool.
o If hot flashes wake you at night, try sleeping in a cool room.
o Dress in layers that you can take off if you get too warm.
o Use sheets and clothing that let your skin “breathe.”
o Have a cold drink (water or juice) at the beginning of a flash.
Content Courtesy : www.niapublications.org
^{Note : Information herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider before beginning any course of supplementation or treatment.}