Mental Illness vs Menopausal Signs and Symptoms

[ruthandsam]

Is there a definitive test to see if you are going through the menopause or have peri menopausal symptoms. I've recently come out of hospital for treatment for a mental illness and the GPs seem to not be interested in anything other than that.

I've been having all the symptoms of the menopause/peri m and it was even mentioned in hospital by a couple of the older nurses that I am certainly displaying all the symptoms. However, how do I get through to the GP my concerns about this without them just dismissing it as just part and parcel of the cycle of depression? It's is getting me really down (pardon the pun)!

[treetops1]

My GP gave me a blood test to verify if was going through it. According to this I was half way through. If you have a Well woman Clinic near you go there as they will probably be more sympathetic.

[rowanwitch]

There are a number of things including blood tests for hormone levels.
And the menopause can make you feel a whole lot worse... been there done that wanted to rip someones head off...while 'visiting the tropics' If you are within the normal age range or earlier if your mum had an early menopause ask your gp for tests to eliminate it at least.

I am surprised the doctors where you were treated for your mental health problems didn't get it done for you especially as the nurses had noticed it and thought it might be a possiblity

[Sqad]

I agree with rowan, but take head, the hormone tests for the menopause are unreliable and not diagnostic.

[lcg]

welcome to living with a mental illness. most dr's you encounter from now on will see that label instead of you. my arthritis and extreme pain went ignored for six months as i had just been slapped with my big fat diagnosis. it all came to a head when i was threatened with the sack from work because of my poor attendance (as i couldn't stand up for any length of time, walk and was in constant agony). i finally had enough, went to see my gp for about the tenth time and refused to budge until i got referred to the pain clinic and rhematology for further investigation...leading to a righful diagnosis and treatment. but, i have even had to fight for effective pain relief as i think the consultant felt i was drug seeking.

anyway, back to your op...many antidepressants and antipsychotics can cause symptoms which are similar to that of the menopause - sweating, hot flushes, weight disturbance, sleep disturbance, sexual change and dysfunction etc. however, if you are sure enough that you need to have this explored more deeply, insist that your doctor gives you blood tests which can determine hormone levels and for other indicators of the menopause (google how this can be established and go armed with information so you can argue your case). and, if you have to, see other dr's in the practice until you find one that will help. failing that, change practices and keep going. someone should be able to provide you with the reassurances that you obviously need. good luck x