InvestigateTV+: Perimenopause still poorly understood
Season 4, Episode 30
(InvestigateTV) — Experts say the transition period before menopause—perimenopause—is still poorly understood, leaving many women blindsided by dozens of symptoms and a frustrating search for answers. InvestigateTV+ takes an in-depth look at the knowledge gap, why diagnosis can be difficult and the complicated history of one of the most effective treatment options.
Plus, after a campfire sparks a massive Minnesota wildfire, we follow one community’s road to recovery and the neighbors who stepped up to help families rebuild.
Perimenopause still poorly understood
Perimenopause is defined as the phase when the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. It can begin anywhere from eight to 10 years before menopause.
The most common signs of perimenopause, like those of menopause, are hot flashes, weight gain and mood changes, in addition to at least 31 other symptoms, according to doctors.
It remains under-recognized both among the medical community and the women who experience it.
Recovering after a wildfire
A campfire grew into the Camp House fire, torching thousands of acres of forest and more than 180 homes, cabins and outbuildings.
In the year since, the devastated residents of Brimson have gotten an unwanted crash course in disaster recovery.
Where fake patients save real lives
The patient is struggling to breathe. Monitors are beeping. Medical students are checking lung sounds, reading vital signs and preparing for the next step.
But this is not a real emergency room.
At LSU Health New Orleans, students are training on high-tech medical simulators built to look, feel and respond like people in crisis.
The cats helping volunteers
Giving time through volunteer work can make a big difference for the cause, but also for the volunteer. Research shows volunteering can offer benefits for mental health.
The Mayo Clinic says it can reduce stress and increase feel-good hormones in the brain. Volunteering can also provide purpose.
At the Cat Alliance Team Sanctuary in Sherwood, Oregon, it’s hard to tell the difference between who’s helping and who’s being helped. The volunteers say they get so much out of their time there.
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