Basically, normal menopause is a gradual process that starts between the ages of 45 and 55. It is defined as occurring in women who have at least one ovary, and takes 5 to 10 years, though it can take up to 13 years. Early menopause, on the other hand, can start in the 30′s or early 40′s, in women who have at least one ovary.

Premature menopause has the advantage that the whole process is usually quicker than regular menopause. 1% of women will have finished their midlife transition by the age of 40. On the whole, 1 to 3 years is shaved off. There are a number of things that can lead to premature menopause. Sometimes these things are a result of lifestyle choices that include; poor nutrition, heavy smoking, heavy drinking, and chronic stress to the body – this can include excessive athletic training.

However, sometimes factors outside of a woman’s control lead to early menopause. For example, autoimmune disorders can affect menopause as well. Mumps and other serious viral infections can damage a woman’s eggs. Given that menopause is associated with fewer primary follicles being able to develop and ovulate, it is easy to see why a woman with fewer follicles, or damaged eggs unable to develop into an ovulatory egg, is prone to an earlier menopause.

If a woman has undergone radiation therapy or chemotherapy, large numbers of eggs can be destroyed. With fewer eggs left, menopause will be earlier than in healthy women. Some women are just born with fewer eggs. They will also experience premature menopause. When a woman’s mother underwent menopause is a good guide to her own genetic predisposition. [Read more...]

Depression is a complex condition characterized by profound sadness, lethargy, feelings of worthlessness, and a loss of interest in social activities. These feelings can last for two weeks or go on for decades. The difference between the blues and clinical depression is one of length and severity of symptoms.

“Depression doesn’t always look or feel like a dark mood.  Irritability is one of the most under-recognized symptoms of major depression. Doctors also often overlook physical symptoms. Some 67% to 69% of people who receive a diagnosis of major depression also have muscle and joint pain, headaches, and fatigue,” says Rakesh Jain, MD, director of psychopharmacology at R/D Clinical Research Center, in Lake Jackson, Tex.

Depression is insidious because it often renders victims unable to ask for help: “I’ve had depressed patients tell me that they need a plan just to walk across the room.” Depression drains a person’s energy. The idea of visiting the doctor, figuring out whether your insurance plan will cover the visit, and filling prescriptions can be daunting when you’re depressed. If you’re already seeing one or more doctors for other health conditions, the difficulties associated with another illness can be overwhelming,” said Sharon Charles Haznedar, an administrative director for behavioral health services at Saint Vincent Catholic Medical Centers.