IT GRADUALLY GETS WORSE. WHEN DOES IT GET BETTER?

Posted , 5 users are following.

Hi ladies! I've been dealing with menopause symptoms since I was 43 years old; I'm currently 48. It all started with excruciating hip pains during my periods. I couldn't sleep on my sides during those times without waking up in agony.

Two years later my hair fell out. The crown of my head was near bald, so I had to wear wigs for two years. I went to see a dermatologist and she diagnosed me with CCCA (Central, Centrifugal, Cicatricial, Alopecia). She also prescribed a steroid and suggested I use Minoxidil. I opt to use either of those and chose a strong biotin supplement instead. My hair grew back completely after two years, but the texture of my hair changed significantly.

Two years later, I began to experience a lot of bloating, burning sensations in my stomach, pain under my ribs (on the right side) and lots of gas. I spoke with my GP and she suggested it was a muscle strain, so she suggested I take pain medication for relief. I knew this was not a muscle strain, but I was hopeful. Eight months later, I went to see her again. This time she told me I was full of s**t! (Well not that direct. She actually said, I have a lot of stools) So, she suggested I use Miralax; the one with the purple cap. (She put emphasis on the purple cap). I am typically regular, so I was confused by her diagnosis, but I was hopeful. I used the Miralax for a week and nothing changed. Still, I can't sleep on my right side without feeling like there's something there. ( I fear it's a mask) I'm always bloated and gassy and all the worry has cause my hair to fall out again. I just purchased a new wig and I'm officially a back sleeper. Still, I'm hopeful! Hang in there ladies!!

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5 Replies

  • Edited

    Hey Oldgurl. I am right there with you my menopause sister. For me i swear my problems started when i turned 40 and Im 45 now. My health anxiety and stomach issues are the worse. I to as we speak are having issues with bloating smelly gas and right side pain and I do understand what you mean when you say it feels like something in there. It shoots my anxiety sky high. I was diagnosed with Gerd but i feel like this gassy bloating is way different Some things help for short periods of time Gas x Maloxx. But not very long. I also use heating pad. By chance do you have any issues with your back? I cant give much advice but wanted you to know your deff not alone Im here yo talk when ever...xoxo

    • Posted

      Hi Renee61138! Thanks for sharing. Yes, I have problems with my back as well. The pain from my side seems to radiate to my back periodically. It's so difficult to pinpoint what's really going on in this body. It often feels like my body is not my own. I use to know what to do to bring myself comfort or how to relax. Now, I have no idea! Everything brings me some form of discomfort; eating, sleeping, exercising....(I use to love yoga, but it's just too uncomfortable now).

      Hang in there!

    • Edited

      Hey OG..

      Menopause is relentless, just like my gas, and bloating are! I know what you're talking about when you utter the words bloating, stomach pains, and burning sensations in the stomach! Jesus take the wheel! I can attest to those symptoms being absolutely horrific, to say the least!! That being said, it doesn't just go away quietly It can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years, and SOME women have told me it (like SECRETS) goes to the grave with us womenfolk! Suffice it to say, you must find the things in life that make you happy and functional, during this tsunami. You must come out on the other side in ONE piece, with your SANITY intact! Be well, my menopausal sister!

    • Edited

      Hey Vivian72668, Thanks for sharing! I've been dealing with the bloating, gas, stomach pain and burning sensations for a year now. I was hoping, this would all be ending soon, but I guess not, huh? Geesh!

      Hang in there!

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