Age 56 - last period at 49 - first symptoms at 47
I have a spinal cord injury and as a result suffer from a life-threatening condition called autonomic dysreflexia (AD). AD symptoms include heavy sweats, pounding headaches and sudden sharp increases in blood pressure. If AD symptoms are not addressed it can cause aneurysm, stroke or even death. The symptoms of AD mimic the symptoms of menopause. When I was going through menopause it was a constant juggling act to figure out whether I was at risk of an episode of AD or just experiencing menopause symptoms. I am paralysed from the chest down so waking during the night covered in sweat was extremely challenging as I am unable to get myself out of bed to shower. Thankfully I was able to frequently seek the help of my husband. I've also noticed an increased sensitivity to insect bites, things that didn't bother me before have landed me in hospital being treated for cellulitis. This sudden sensitivity to insect bites like mosquito or horseflies is apparently linked to the reduced oestrogen levels in my body. What would've made a difference for me is some sort of online peer support group or literature to explain the symptoms to someone with spinal cord injury and to explain that an increase in anxiety is normal especially given the Constant worry of AD.