Menopause Bloating Symptoms

How can I be sure I am going through menopause?

Some symptoms I have are eye swelling, frequent urination, cramping, bloating, sinus difficulties, sleep disturbances, weakness, and weight gain.

You don't mention your age, which might be helpful. You also don't mention one common, frequent symptom of perimenopause, which is irregular periods that are heavier or lighter than usual.

Perimenopause is the transition between menstruation and menopause, and it can last for several years. True menopause is defined as being amenorrheic (no periods) for one year.

Read about perimenopause at http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/perimenopause/DS00554

Some of your symptoms may indicate perimenopause. Some may indicate a digestive disorder such as irritable bowel syndrome. Some may indicate an endocrine disorder such as hypothyroidism.

Only a physician can tell you whether you're in perimenopause (a simple blood test for FSH, or follicle-stimulating hormone, may be helpful). The physician can also rule out other causes of your signs/symptoms.

As your symptoms are so varied, you may want to see your physician for evaluation and diagnosis. Us older ladies (I'm 46 and in perimenopause) often have many small complaints besides perimenopause and you shouldn't suffer your symptoms needlessly.

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