Menopause is a natural phase that all people who menstruate will go through at some point in their lives, but the symptoms can vary widely.

One common symptom is dizziness, which we know can be both frustrating and disruptive to your daily routine. In this article, we will explore what causes the dizzy sensation during menopause, what you can do about it, and how to regain your balance – both literally and figuratively!

Understanding the causes: Hormones, blood flow, and more

Dizziness during menopause may manifest itself in different ways – from moments of imbalance to more intense bouts of dizziness. Some people experience spatial disorientation or even double vision, making everyday activities feel like a challenge. Don't worry - you are not alone in this and it's a normal thing to go through!

So, why does dizziness rear its head during menopause?

Menopause is officially marked by the end of your menstrual period, so the connection between menopause and dizziness may not be immediately obvious. However, it's not just about periods coming to an end; the menopausal transition is a time when your body experiences significant hormonal fluctuations.

Oestrogen (or estrogen), the key female hormone, plays an important role in maintaining various bodily functions, including the regulation of blood vessels and the flow of blood. The decrease in oestrogen levels (and other hormone levels) during the menopause transition not only leads to classic menopause symptoms such as weight gain and mood swings, but also has an influence on blood vessels, blood cells, and blood sugar levels.

This can lead to changes in blood pressure, which results in menopausal symptoms such as heart palpitations, hot flushes (or hot flashes), chest pain, and – you guessed it – dizziness. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations can impact the stability of your nervous system, which plays a vital role in maintaining balance control and can give you that feeling of loss of balance.

While menopausal dizziness can be frustrating, there are steps you can take to help ease its impact on your daily life. Here are some of our team's practical tips:

1. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help stabilise blood pressure and improve blood flow, reducing the likelihood of dizziness.
2. Maintain stable blood sugar levels: Consuming regular, balanced meals and snacks can prevent sudden drops in blood sugar, which may contribute to dizzy spells.
3. Prioritise your sleep: There's a strong connection between sleep quality and dizziness. Ensure you get enough restful sleep each night to support your body's systems.
4. Explore menopause medications, such as HRT: In some cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) might be recommended by your healthcare provider to help manage hormonal fluctuations and associated symptoms.
5. Incorporate fresh, nutrient-rich foods into your diet: A diet rich in fresh fruits, green veggies, and flax seeds can contribute to better overall health and possibly reduce the severity of dizziness symptoms.
6. Stay active: Regular exercise can improve blood circulation, muscle mass, and overall well-being, contributing to better balance control.
7. Be mindful of your stress levels: High stress can exacerbate dizziness. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation into your daily routine.

When to get professional help

While these lifestyle adjustments can be a good and positive change, regardless of your menopausal dizziness, it's important to speak to your doctor if you're experiencing severe or persistent symptoms. Remember, you shouldn't struggle through menopause symptoms in silence!

Dizziness can sometimes be linked to underlying heart conditions or other medical concerns, so it's always best to speak to a doctor or nurse about what's going on.

Your menopause journey is unique to you and every person's experience will be different. What you're experiencing is a common symptom of menopause, but it doesn't have to define your daily life. Reach out and get support from friends and family. There are also specialised menopause doctors (like our team at Fertifa) and menopause clinics that specialise in providing guidance and medical treatments tailored to your specific needs.

We know navigating the menopause can be difficult. If you're a Fertifa patient and you have any questions about dizziness, or any other menopause symptoms, don't hesitate to contact your Fertifa Nurse Practitioner. We're always here to support 💜