Menopause is sometimes misdiagnosed as Depression

It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with Depression, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Menopause.

Menopause is the condition when a person with a uterus stops having their monthly periods, usually between the ages of 45 and 60 years. It is diagnosed when you have gone 12 months without having a period. Symptoms of menopause include changes to your menstrual cycle, hot flushes, night sweats, problems sleeping, low energy levels, muscle or joint pain, vaginal symptoms such as dryness and discomfort during sex, increased urge to urinate and mood changes such as increased anxiety, depression, and anger. Early menopause can occur due to a variety of other medical conditions such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy, hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus), primary ovarian insufficiency and oophorectomy (surgical removal of the ovaries). Menopause can also be misdiagnosed as depression, anaemia, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and athletic amenorrhoea.

Always consult your doctor or health professional, and do not self diagnose.

Symptoms can include:

Hot flushes or night sweats, menstrual cycle changes, insomnia, low energy levels, discomfort during sex, increase in urination frequency, mood changes, muscle or joint pain, vaginal and urinary symptoms

Symptoms are a guideline only and may apply to either the diagnosis or the reported misdiagnosis, or both. Consult your specialist for further information.

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