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Is it depression or menopause

Posted , 9 users are following.

margaret71342
margaret71342

Hi there, going to doctors tomorrow but afraid of walking out with antidepressants when I maybe need hrt. I'm 52 and periods are now quite erratic, I don't want to leave the house. Always in pyjamas. Terrible sweating sometimes. Sore knees. Paranoia. My mood is so low and fearful most of the time. Am I in menopause. Any advise would be greatly appreciated.

0 likes, 30 replies

30 Replies

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  • pat11500
    pat11500 margaret71342

    Posted

    Hi Margaret, sorry I addressed my reply to Caroline by mistake.. gettin old :-)
    • margaret71342
      margaret71342 pat11500

      Posted

      I'm new to this and was not sure if it was for me. Thank you. I have a bit of hope now. I think I will really try hard to explain how I feel. It's just because I have had a bit of depression in the past that I think they will just opt for the antidepressants.
    • pat11500
      pat11500 margaret71342

      Posted

      Well at 52 you are at the age where it is normal to be menopausal you know your own body and mind better than anyone else. Go with your instincts and dont accept what you dont feel comfortable with. Ask if you can try HRT.
    • margaret71342
      margaret71342 pat11500

      Posted

      I will pat. I will ask to try hrt first. This forum has already helped me to go and ask for it.
  • tracey0411
    tracey0411 margaret71342

    Posted

    There is no blood test to see if you are going through the menopause, you can be tested two days running and your results will be completely different. None will be conclusive.

    They can test you once you think you've been through the change, but not whilst you think you are going through it.

    That's what I've been told by my gynaecologist

    • margaret71342
      margaret71342 tracey0411

      Posted

      Thanks, would be prefer not to be tested because if it came back not menopausal I would feel worse and more confused.
    • Jan999
      Jan999 margaret71342

      Posted

      If you're in the UK margaret you won't be offered a blood test. That is no longer the protocol.
    • margaret71342
      margaret71342 Jan999

      Posted

      Yes I am in uk. I understand that it can be a patch or gel or in tablet form. Does it matter and is everyone prescribed the same amount on beginning.
    • Jan999
      Jan999 margaret71342

      Posted

      You'll probably discuss your options with your GP. Try and read up on the different types and check out the NICE Guidelines. 
    • pat11500
      pat11500 margaret71342

      Posted

      I started with a patch, just for sheer convenience. You stick it on (usually at the top of your outer thigh) twice a week, it always takes a while to adjust but within a week or so my flushes had all but disappeared and I felt so much better, more energy, more sleep and happier. Its your choice and like Matron said, check out the options online and read the NICE guidelines. Keep us posted
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