Dizziness and nausea during menopause

Dizziness and nausea are not among the most well-known symptoms of menopause, yet many women experience them. Unfortunately, there is little research on the link between dizziness,  nausea and menopause. In this article, we look at what researchers believe are the contributing factors to dizziness and nausea during the menopause, and what can be done about it.
 

What causes nausea and dizziness?
During menopause, there are major shifts in women's sex hormones. These changes, especially in oestrogen levels, can affect the brain and make you feel dizzy or nauseous.

Hot flushes, a cause for nausea and dizziness during menopause
One of the most common symptoms of menopause is hot flushes. They are characterised by sudden heat spreading through the upper part of the body, mainly over the chest and face. The skin may also become red and blotchy and you start to sweat. Hot flushes can be very strong and contribute to headaches, nausea and dizziness.

Sleep problems can lead to dizziness during menopause
Another common symptom of menopause is sleep issues. You may find that you don't sleep as well anymore, that you wake up more often during the night or have trouble falling asleep when you go to bed. It can also be caused by hot flushes and night sweats, which make it uncomfortable and difficult to sleep. Poor sleep and sleeping habits over a long period of time can make you feel dizzy during the day and more susceptible to headaches.

How to ease dizziness and nausea during menopause
Lifestyle and dietary changes may help with menopausal dizziness. If that doesn't help, medication may be an option. Alcohol, spicy food and caffeine are three things that can make dizziness and hot flushes worse, so you can try reducing or avoiding these to see if your symptoms improve.

It may also help to make sure that you have a sleep routine, going to bed around the same time and waking up at the same time. This will help your body get into a rhythm and improve the quality of your sleep. Another way to improve the quality of your sleep and enhance deep sleep, is to exercise or do some form of physical activity regularly.

If the above dietary and lifestyle changes does not help, medication may be an option. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is used to treat various symptoms that occur during menopause. HRT can help stabilise hormone levels, especially oestrogen, which can reduce nausea and dizziness. However, one of the main side effects is dizziness, so it is important to discuss the pros and cons with your healthcare provider to see if HRT is the right treatment for you.