GP talks about the impact of the menopause on weight gain
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The menopause is a natural part of getting older, and most women start to develop symptoms after their 45th birthday. Hormone changes could also lead to some common symptoms in the mouth, which might easily go unnoticed.
The menopause describes when a woman stops having periods, and isn’t able to get pregnant naturally.
It’s normal for periods to become less frequent over time, before they ultimately come to a stop.
It’s caused by oestrogen levels declining over time, and the average age for a woman to start menopausal symptoms is 51.
Most women will develop some kind of menopause symptoms, but there are four key signs to look out for in your mouth.
“Many women may not be aware that their oral health can be affected during menopause,” said Bupa Dental Care’s regional clinical director Dr Faizan Zaheer.
He told Express.co.uk: “Changing hormones levels make them more susceptible to oral health problems, such as dry mouth and gum disease.
“During menopause, our teeth and gums need extra attention. It’s important to keep up a good oral health routine and attend regular check-ups with your dentist to discuss any changes in your teeth, gums, tongue, or mouth.
“Looking after your mouth at this stage of life is more important than ever.”
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One of the most common mouth symptoms of the menopause is having a dry mouth, added Dr Zaheer.
Falling oestrogen levels could lead to lower saliva production, and subsequently a dry mouth.
Some patients might also develop gum disease, which leads to sore, swollen and bleeding gums.
Gum disease could also increase your risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Menopause might cause a weakness in the jaw, as well as a higher risk of osteoporosis.
Some osteoporosis medications have jaw pain as a side effect, and dental treatment can be particularly difficult for osteoporosis patients.
Meanwhile, a rare symptom of the menopause is burning mouth syndrome – a condition that causes pain on the tongue, gums, lips, and throat.
Burning mouth syndrome could even leave a metallic taste in the mouth, and cause some foods to taste different.
You should speak to a doctor if you’re worried about the symptoms of menopause.
It’s also worth talking to a GP if you have menopausal symptoms before the age of 45.
A blood test could reveal your hormone levels, and therefore your risk of premature menopause.
Some of the more common signs of the menopause include difficulty sleeping, vaginal dryness, low libido, and problems with memory.
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