Patient's question:
Doctor, hello! My mother is 60 years old this year. In the past three months, she has been deeply troubled by menopausal syndrome, feeling low in spirit, reluctant to talk, experiencing a sense of loneliness, poor sleep, hot flashes, palpitations, and globus hystericus. She consulted a traditional Chinese medicine doctor in our local hospital.Doctor's answer:
Menopausal syndrome is a long-term cluster of symptoms, typically occurring around the time of menopause. Your mother's onset at 60 is considered late. Generally, for more severe symptoms, estrogen treatment can provide temporary relief, combined with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy. However, when seeking TCM treatment, it is essential to consult an experienced practitioner, as improper treatment may sometimes worsen the condition.The indications for estrogen medication—i.e., who is eligible for estrogen treatment—are as follows:
1. No history of gynecological cancer.
2. Normal cervical cancer screening (Pap smear), breast examination, gynecological ultrasound (normal endometrium), and no uterine fibroids or ovarian tumors.
3. Severe symptoms that significantly impair daily life.
In these cases, estrogen is recommended, which we call hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Based on symptom improvement after medication, the dosage can be gradually reduced or discontinued, while TCM can provide sustained relief. Among patients treated in my clinic, the longest duration of HRT (with intermittent use) was five years, while some experienced relief within a few months. However, recurring symptoms are relatively uncommon.
HRT must be taken under a doctor's prescription, as estrogen treatment alone poses serious risks to the uterus and breasts. Therefore, progesterone should be used alongside estrogen under medical guidance.