New to the forum and looking to learn more about the subject listed above. It seems that among the medical professionals I've seen ADD is overlooked, as is the impact of the loss of estrogen. I am scared that this is my new normal.
I'm wondering.
1. Have any of you experienced worsening ADD symptoms with menopause
2. What kind of treatments did you find effective?
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Learning1975
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I am a NUrse Practitioner with ADHD , yeas ago I had a hysterectomy but I insisted they leave my overlies intact. But at about 55 the ovaries started to shrink as they do naturally and surgical , .And yes memory loss is not uncommon with menopause natural or surgical. Suggest low dose estrogen pogest4ronbe by mouth ( low dose ) or via transdermal patch plus topical testosterone. A compounding pharmacy can make this for you if there is not a standard dose already out there , And suggest you find a female Gynecologist to discuss this with ,
I’m not in menopause but I take estrogen suppression drugs to prevent cancer recurrence. (Which also means that estrogen supplementation will never be an option for me).
I have definitely felt the impact of hormonal changes on my ADHD.
Certain meds that used to work now have side effects for me that are more problematic. Right now I’m experimenting with lowering some dosages and increasing others.
I suggest lean in on the sleep part and be open to a whole new medication exploration process.
YES! I managed to work and live for 50 years with ADHD but was not diagnosed until after menopause. I still could not hold a job for past 13 years, cannot NOT make careless mistakes, feel misunderstood and called names like stupid and lazy and I do not sleep well. So, masks diagnosed of MDD/anxiety, insomnia, which lead to increased symptoms of pain and fatigue and worsening ADHD symptoms. Sigh. My friend said I’m a victim mind, should’ve REALLY stabbed him with that sodering iron! Asshat Do they realize how hard is to presevere in life while losing 2-3 Jobs a year?
Menopause made it uncontrollable Everything got worse and more miserable Paralyzed and unmedicated Still today after seeing and receiving professional diagnosis my psychiatrist does not want to treat? Dear God
Many women are not diagnosed until they are in their 40's or older. A number of years age the fastest growing population being diagnosed with ADHD was middle aged women. The theory is the hormone loss that comes with peri menopause and menopause worsens ADHD symptoms. The ways these women managed their symptoms before are no longer as effective or effective.
Stimulants like Adderall, Ritalin, Dextroamphetamine,etc are the most effective treatment for ADHD. Unfortunately, health conditions as we age can make those medications not safe to prescribe. But there are other medications that can help. It can take awhile to find the right medication and/or combination of medications. This is common for many with ADHD and not just middle aged and older women.
It can take a while to find the right doctor. You need someone with experience in treating middle aged women with ADHD. The only way to do this is by seeing psychiatrists in your area. It can also help to see a counselor or psychologist that specializes in women with ADHD. This is not something you can do with Google or by asking your insurance company. It takes time but is well worth it when you find the right doctor. It takes time to adjust to new season in our lives. Please be patient with yourself.
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