I am going through the menopause but the HRT tablets are not working. I feel as though I am going crazy. I already have an underactive thyroid and I take 200mg tablets per day. My whole body is exhausted and painful. I feel like I have turned into a different person. My hot flushes are so bad that I am literally turning purple. Please, can you help me?

If you are still taking the HRT it is important to go back to your doctor and let them know it is not helping you and making your symptoms worse.

There are different forms of HRT and they may be able to prescribe one that does actually help.

Acupuncture can often be really effective for this situation so it is worth looking into. I would also suggest a female multi-vitamin and extra magnesium to help support the body generally.

Has your doctor tested for low iron or low vitamin D as these can appear around the menopause and both can cause very similar symptoms.

If not, it may be a good idea to ask for a test just to rule them out.

The menopause can also make existing health conditions worse so do make sure that your thyroid is checked regularly and that you are taking the right dose of medication.

Eileen Durward