Menopause and Dizziness
By Andrea Donsky | Fact Checked | Sources
Among the lesser-discussed symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause is dizziness. However, if you are in menopause and dizziness is a part of your life, then you may be looking for answers. We have some here for you.
What is dizziness?
Dizziness is a term to describe a variety of associated sensations, such as feeling faint, lightheaded, unsteady, woozy, and weak. It can be triggered or worsened by moving your head, standing up suddenly, or walking. Sometimes it is accompanied by nausea or a severe need to sit or lie down. Dizziness can last for several seconds or even days. When it involves a false sense of spinning or motion, it is called vertigo.
Dizziness may be caused by an underlying medical condition or have environmental causes. Identifying the cause can help determine which treatment avenue to pursue. Some possible causes include menopause and the hormonal changes associated with it, inner ear infections, and cardiovascular problems.
How is dizziness associated with menopause?
Dizziness is a common symptom of menopause, but in the majority of cases, it doesn’t indicate a serious medical problem. As estrogen and progesterone levels decline, it can affect the functioning of the heart, brain, and ears. These changes can result in dizziness.
Read about natural relief from perimenopause
- study among 935 women who were experiencing dizziness suggested that estrogen weakens the otoconia, which contributes to dizziness.
- a study that involved nearly 500 women, more than one-third of women in perimenopause or postmenopause experienced dizziness at least once a week. The authors reported that dizziness was associated with anxiety and recommended treating the anxiety in order to relieve dizziness.
- dizziness and fatigue can result.
- Insomnia is common among women in menopause, and lack of sufficient sleep can lead to dizziness
- Experts have noted that some women begin to experience a migraine that involves dizziness during menopause. The dizziness is called epigone migraine vertigo.
How can you manage dizziness in menopause?
Take these steps to help alleviate dizziness you may experience during menopause. Your best management tools involve addressing the issues that may be underlying the dizziness.
- sleep every night. If you are experiencing insomnia, take steps to correct it
- Manage stress through exercise, yoga, meditation, deep breathing, progressive relaxation, guided visualization, or other relaxing methods. Practice these methods every day.
- Tai chi is a practice that can significantly help with balance issues
When to see your doctor
If your dizziness persists, you feel like your balance is affected, or your surroundings are spinning and it is impacting your daily activities, consult with your doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition behind this symptom.
Bottom line
Dizziness during the menopausal years is a common occurrence, and a variety of factors may contribute to it. Listen to your body, try natural approaches to alleviate this symptom, and consult your physician if you are not successful or have any questions.