wuxiqeyekux

Worst Symptom Of Menopause

2006-12-18T10:40:00.000-08:00

Meopause

by Kent Sayre

Menopause is a naturally-occurring part of life for a woman, and it occurs when the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone, two essential hormones that make-up a woman�s reproductive ability, thus ending her menstrual cycle. It usually occurs between the ages of 40 and 58 (the average age is 51). Though rare, menopause can also occur as early as the 30s or as late as the 60s.

The aforementioned symptoms are tell-tale signs of menopause, and they can last for months, sometimes years.

As with most changes in life, menopause comes in stages. The first stage is dubbed as �pre-menopause,� where a woman�s period cycle has become erratic, but she has not yet experienced many other symptoms of menopause. The second stage, peri-menopause, is when menopause�s beginning classic symptoms are �all around� (as the prefix �peri� indicates), like hot flashes and significant irregularities in her period cycle. The actual �menopause� stage is next, which refers to a woman�s last menstrual cycle. Lastly, post-menopause kicks in when a woman has not had her period for at least a year. After this, of course, women are postmenopausal for the remainder of their lives.

While the prefix �post� typifies the end, menopause symptoms never actually end. In fact, some women put themselves through a number of therapies to alleviate symptoms like acupuncture, aromatherapy and Shiatsu.

The electronic manual will tell you about these therapies and several more on just how effective they are. In addition to that, the electronic manual will give you hordes of information designed specifically for menopausal women and how best to treat the symptoms that accompany it. For instance, you�ll find out how to get rid of hot flashes and night sweats, tips on how to sleep as soundly as you used to, how fat-soluble vitamins affect your body, why menopause happens in the first place, the secret benefits of beans in a woman�s diet and much, much more.

http://www.infostormpublishing.com/ebooks/?bk=8

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Sayre

A List Of The Symptom Of Menopause

2006-12-18T08:23:00.000-08:00

Is Natural Estrogen Replacement Available?

by Patsy Hamilton

During menopause, natural estrogen levels in a woman�s body decline causing symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings. For many years, estrogen replacement therapy was recommended to relieve menopausal symptoms. As the egg supply in the ovaries is depleted, they begin to produce less estrogen and finally shut down completely. Other organs produce estrogen as well, so even after menopause it is still present in the blood stream, just at much lower levels than when a woman was young.

In the 1930�s, scientists found that they could isolate the natural estrogen from the urine of pregnant women, but continued to search for other sources, in order to make mass production possible. During that decade, researchers learned to create estrogen in the laboratory and isolate it from the urine of pregnant mares.
In 1941, estrogen replacement therapy was approved by the FDA for the treatment of menopausal symptoms.

Estrogen replacement therapy was very popular until around 1975 when researchers learned that it could cause endometrial cancer. The endometrium is the lining of the uterus. Natural estrogen produced by the ovaries causes the lining to thicken, preparing for a fertilized egg. During a woman�s reproductive years, if no egg is fertilized, the ovaries produce progesterone, which causes the endometrium to be shed during menstruation. Estrogen replacement therapy caused the lining to thicken, but since progesterone was not present, the lining was not shed, resulting in cancer of the endometrium in many women.

To reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, doctors began to prescribe a combination of progesterone and estrogen replacement for women during menopause. This �combination therapy� was very popular until 2001, when the Women�s Health Initiative found that the health risks associated with this therapy outweighs the benefits. Hormone replacement therapy had been commonly recommended, not only to reduce the symptoms of menopause, but also to reduce a woman�s risk of colorectal cancer and osteoporosis.

During the five year study, researchers followed groups of women who were using either estrogen replacement only, combined hormone replacement therapy or a placebo (no HRT at all). Researchers had originally intended to follow the women for several more years, but research was halted because of the number of reported adverse events among women using HRT. The adverse events reported were breast cancer, heart disease, blood clots, stroke and pulmonary embolism.

The information collected by the research group indicates that while combination HRT decreases a woman�s risk of endometrial cancer, it increases a woman�s risk of breast cancer. One group of women in the study was able to use estrogen replacement only, because they had previously had a hysterectomy, thus estrogen posed no threat of endometrial cancer. After comparing the incidence of breast cancer in this estrogen only group to the group using combination HRT, researchers concluded that the combination therapy increased a woman�s risk of breast cancer. Topically applied hormones, such as natural estrogen creams, are not believed to carry the risks of orally administered hormones.

Some brands of HRT are advertised as �natural estrogen� because the source of the estrogen is natural; mare urine. Some people refer to bio-identical hormones as �natural�, because they are designed to be molecularly identical to the natural estrogen and other hormones created by a woman�s body.

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy is somewhat popular, due in part to a book written by a female TV star, who upon entering menopause was unhappy with everything that went along with it and found a clinic that offers this form of treatment. It is more expensive and not available from all doctors. Basically, bio-identical HRT involves creating hormones in the laboratory that are structurally identical to a woman�s own hormones. Compounding pharmacists use plant estrogens from yams and soy, as well as animal estrogens from horses and pigs and �adjust� them, so that they are so similar to the ones produced by the human body, that, theoretically, the body can not tell the difference. To date, no studies have been conducted concerning the health risks associated with the long term use of bio-identical HRT.

Rather than offering the quick fix of estrogen replacement or other types of HRT, some of the best women�s clinics begin treatment by counseling women about diet, nutrition, lifestyle and dietary supplements. In many cases, making healthy changes in lifestyle and diet and adding nutritional supplements helps to increase a woman�s natural estrogen levels, relieves menopausal symptoms and makes HRT unnecessary. To learn more, please visit the Menopause and PMS Guide.

Patsy Hamilton was a healthcare professional for over twenty years before becoming a freelance writer. Currently she writes informational articles for the Menopause and PMS Guide. Visit http://www.menopause-and-pms-guide.com to learn more about menopause, PMS and natural remedies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patsy_Hamilton

Symptom Menopause

2006-12-18T05:21:00.000-08:00

Causes of Osteoporosis

by Thomas Morva

It is a known fact that more bone is laid down more than it is removed in the early life of a person. An individual�s peak bone mass is reached at the age of thirty, wherein the remodeling process starts, that takes away more bone than is replaced. Remodeling is the process involving the laying down of new bone and the removing of old bone. So it can be said that the process of bone loss begins in the early to late thirties. It is from this age to the onset of menopause that women lose a certain amount of bone every year.

The average rate of bone loss in men, and in women who have not reached menopause, is actually quite small. However, after menopause, the bone loss in women accelerates to an average of one to two percent a year. It is after menopause that the level of the female hormone estrogen in a woman�s body decreases sharply. Estrogen is a hormone that is important in protecting the skeleton by helping the body�s bone forming cells to keep working. So after menopause, this protection can be considered lost as the level of estrogen decreases.

Other causes of osteoporosis are heredity and lifestyle. Whites and Asians, tall and thin women and those with a history of osteoporosis are those at the highest risk of getting osteoporosis. The behavioral causes of increasing the risk of osteoporosis are smoking, alcohol abuse, prolonged inactivity and a diet low in calcium. There are also some diseases that are associated with aging that cause osteoporosis, which include kidney failure, liver disease, cancers, Paget�s disease, endocrine or glandular diseases, gonadal failure and rheumatoid arthritis. There are some medications like steroids, seizure drugs, thyroid hormone and blood thinners that are also found to cause osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis provides detailed information on Osteoporosis, Osteoporosis Treatments, Osteoporosis Prevention, Causes Of Osteoporosis and more. Osteoporosis is affiliated with Osteoarthritis Symptom.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Morva

Symptom Of Surgical Menopause

2006-12-18T02:21:00.000-08:00

The Risks of Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women

by Amy-Jo Strutt

It wasn�t until 2002 that the true health risks of hormone replacement therapy were discovered and communicated openly. Up until that time, doctors routinely prescribed HRT to women who were experiencing any sort of menopause symptoms. The most common symptoms where HRT was used were for severe hot flashes and vaginal discomfort. Hot flashes for some women can be extreme where visible sweating occurs while the body attempts to cool it self off. Hot flashes tend to be most severe during the late evening and early in the morning. There are often accompanied by night sweats.

Before women agree to hormone replacement therapy, they need to be fully aware of the health risks associated with this treatment. The combination of estrogen and progestin, a popular HRT, can result in heart disease, blood clots, strokes, breast cancer and dementia. In fact, if you are a breast cancer survivor, any sort of hormone replacement therapy is discouraged strongly even if you suffer from severe menopause symptoms.

HRT is effective at reducing the severity of menopause symptoms as well as decreasing the risk of hip fractures from osteoporosis and colorectal cancer. If you opt to participate in HRT treatment, it is recommended that you go for the smallest dosage possible for the shortest length of time to reduce your risk of the above side effects.

If you don�t want to participate in hormone replacement therapy while going through menopause, there are some things that you can do to help alleviate some of the symptoms. First, change your diet and eliminate any processed foods. Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Hot flashes can be brought on by hot, spicy food so limiting these can definitely help. Limiting alcohol and caffeine will also help you sleep better and reduce hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety and mood swings. If you smoke, it may be time to consider stopping for a number of health reasons. Make sure to get plenty of rest and finally, exercise you be the most important thing you can do to help reduce or eliminate symptoms. Walking is great, so are running, golfing, swimming, biking, hiking and weight lifting. The more active you are, the easier it will be getting through menopause.

There are a number of menopause herbal supplements on the market that make big claims. Before taking anything, it is recommended you speak to your doctor to ensure they are right for you and won�t cause other side effects.

Amy-Jo Strutt is an expert author and regular contributor to http://www.menopausesymptomsinfo.com/index.html For more informationa on menopause, hormone replacement therapy, male menopause, menopause symptoms including hot flashes and perimenopause, be sure to go to: http://www.menopausesymptomsinfo.com/Hormone-Replace-Therapy.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy-Jo_Strutt

Length Menopause Symptom

2006-12-17T11:21:00.001-08:00

Menopause and Headaches: Wellness and Treatment Possibilites

by Antoinette Boulay

Menopause and headaches can seem horrendous for some, but for doctors that can ease the pain of their patients and create new possibilities for wellness, it can bring satisfaction. Yes, satisfaction, since alleviating pain is one of the greatest gifts that a doctor can give to his or her patients. Also because discovering more helpful ways in which to deal with menopause and headaches can lead to stimulating territory in terms of medical advances and research. This type of biological territory is full of potential discoveries waiting to be unearthed in the fields of genetics and physiology.

Several non-drug treatments to menopause and headaches are possible for doctors to advise before trying any medication or pharmaceutical. One such option is acupuncture. This is especially suggested to those patients who are prone to adverse or severe reactions to drug treatments and who often wind up with painful side effects. Acupuncture is safe and contributes to stress relief and other healing paths. This is why it is such a probable option for menopause and headaches relief, especially in cases that are more serious in nature and do not respond to medication.

Under the non-drug treatment grouping, the possibility also exists for there to be avoidance treatment. At first, this may not seem like an authentic treatment alternative. Avoiding foods or items that are recognized triggers to your symptoms, can nevertheless be as viable a treatment as any drug. Relaxation techniques, coupled with avoidance techniques, can be key to improvement in menopause and headache symptoms and can create a strategy to combat stressful life events. This helps a patient heal in terms of stress relief and integrating appropriate natural responses to her stressors.

Physical therapy is also tremendously helpful for relieving symptoms. Aligning the body of the patient in with her mental state can help to assist relief by actually creating a measure of control in the body and mind. Maintaining that control during various symptomatic changes, as the body alters its biochemical makeup, which happens throughout menopause and headaches, the body can adapt through this training. This helps through providing the proper balance of endorphins and other essential chemicals of the body�s whole system to help combat the more painful and frightening effects of menopause.

For a free report on a simple step by step at home method to end headache pain, simply go to http://www.migraineandheadacherelief.com/cure

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Antoinette_Boulay

Menopause Symptom Testing

2006-12-17T11:21:00.000-08:00

Menopause Information: How to Live Longer, Healthier and Happier

by Alex Fir

Menopause is a natural biological and physiological change that we cannot escape. There is nothing to worry about, you are not going to crawl in a hole and stop living.

In fact, you could benefit from menopause. When a woman goes through menopause the biological clock stops ticking, as well, the menstrual cycle ceases. What a grand benefit. It gets better; you will not suffer PMS symptoms.

Menopause in fact is the beginning of new life. Now do not get me wrong, you will experience hot flashes, heart palpitations, night sweats, mood swings, and drying in the vaginal area.

The positive aspect is that symptoms of menopause do not pose any risk to your health. You can reduce symptoms by practicing deep breathing. Deep breathing has proven to relieve women in menopause from symptoms up to 50%. You can also try to stay in a cool environment to minimize menopause symptoms.

One of the major problems that lead to stress is that down through the years people were taught that menopause was the mark of the ending. You heard negative remarks such as, �Oh, she�s going through the change.� This remark alone put fear in many for years to come.

The fact is you are now beginning to live. You do not have to worry about your children, because they are grown and out of the house. You have the option of starting a new career, or advancing in your current career.

Menopause causes a woman�s body to slow estrogen. What you can do to boost estrogen is incorporate soy into your diet, and has sex more than twice a week.

Some women endure depression, and mood swings that cause them to lash out. While no proof is available that links these behaviors to menopause, some studies believe that night sweats and hot flashes has something to do with it.

To live longer, healthier, and happier you want to include exercise into your daily plans. Studies show that exercise, such as walking, can increase chemicals and endorphins which will make you feel better both inside and out. Exercise will improve mood swings, as well as strengthen in your muscles to prevent osteoporosis. In addition, stretch exercises will promote flexibility, mobility, and spare your joints from harm.

Women going through menopause are candidates for osteoporosis, simply because estrogen decreases. Again sex promotes estrogen; accordingly you want to learn to train the mind to enjoy your partner.

Now that you know that menopause is not a bad thing, you can move ahead by accepting changes. Those who accept change, has proven to live longer, healthier, and happier. Change is good. Change is your friend. Change is what helps us to live and grow.

Alex Fir shares a wealth of information on his website Help for Menopause. If you want to learn more about menopause relief visit his site now.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Fir

Menopause During Pregnancy Symptom

2006-12-17T08:24:00.000-08:00

Holistic Menopause

by Michelle Gluth

Menopause is a natural life transition experienced by every woman in the world. Approximately 630 million women are over the age of 50, yet menopause continues to be dreaded, discussed in whispers and treated like a disease. Despite our aging population, most women simply haven�t been given the information, skills, resources and support necessary to approach this time of life with confidence and ease.

Menopause refers to a point in time rather than a span of years. It�s defined by 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle. When you reach menopause, you have already endured the most symptomatic time. Perimenopause, the 2-12 year phase preceding menopause, can begin long before you associate your symptoms with �the change�. This is a time of wildly fluctuating hormones and a chain reaction of symptoms that will affect every aspect of your life - mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually.

Each phase of your transition requires that you stay in touch with your body. In perimenopause, your symptoms alert you to the areas of your life that need attention. Consider them a loud and clear �wake up call� to encourage positive change. The turbulent years of perimenopause give way to the �silent symptoms� of menopause and post menopause. Preventing age and hormone related health conditions like heart disease and osteoporosis require your attention from this time forward.

Identify what you�re experiencing as �normal� to regain a sense of control. Seeing the list of perimenopause and menopause symptoms will bring a sigh of relief. You�re not alone, and you�re not going crazy! Next, eliminate the possibility of any common midlife health conditions. Hypothyroidism, adrenal exhaustion, chronic fatigue, blood sugar issues and fibromyalgia mimic and intensify the symptoms of your naturally changing hormones.

Support your changing needs with a healthy diet, stress management, exercise, quiet time and a positive mental attitude. A multiple vitamin and mineral complex, essential fatty acids, plenty of B vitamins and at least 1,200 mg of (absorbable) calcium daily is a strong foundation to build on. To this, you can add specific supplements, herbs, and holistic modalities that will safely and effectively address the symptoms of estrogen dominance and/or estrogen deficiency.

A holistic approach to perimenopause and menopause reveals that midlife is about far more than uncomfortable physical symptoms. It�s a transformative time, rich with opportunities for personal growth, renewed health and authentic living. This natural transition is occurring precisely as intended and is preparing you for next chapter of your life. It�s time for you now. Retreat, rest and nurture yourself. Take time to reflect, reevaluate, restore and reinvent yourself for the second half of life. Embrace the change!

� Copyright 2005, Michelle Morris Gluth, Holistic Menopause, All Rights Reserved

Holistic Menopause Founder, Michelle Morris Gluth, has been a student, practitioner and teacher of the holistic arts for over 28 years. Skilled and certified in many modalities, Michelle empowers women with the information, skills, resources and support to experience menopause as a positive life transition. �Embrace The Change!�

http://www.holisticmenopause

http://www.holisticmenopause

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Gluth

Menopause Physical Symptom

2006-12-17T08:21:00.000-08:00

Female Hair Loss and Menopause

by Kathlene Capelle

Menopause is one of the most common causes of female hair loss and one of the least happily endured symptom. Female hair loss can be pretty devastating to any woman in today�s modern society, which emphasizes the importance of an attractive hairdo. Just think on the thriving multi-billion dollar in the hair care industry and the numerous advertisements on shampoo, styling products and hair loss treatments.

Like childbirth, menopause is a natural occurring state for women and � also like childbirth � the changes manifested in the body can be traumatic. Women begin menopause between the ages of 30 and 70, with most beginning between the mid 40s and mid 50s. However, menopause can occur unnaturally, that is, after surgery or medical treatment. In this case, the symptoms may be much more severe and female hair loss is much more likely.

Female hair loss is not a guaranteed symptom of menopause. It is less common than, for example, hot flashes and mood changes. Women experience female hair loss to varying degrees and some don't experience at all.

Exactly what causes hair loss is still not clear. But many experts have said that the most common cause is androgenetic alopecia or genetic balding. This refers to a genetic process whereby individual hair follicles metabolizes the sex hormone testosterone. Menopausal women experiencing hair loss experience a higher rate of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. It is the effect of DHT on hair follicles that results in heair loss.

In the same respect, women who have abnormally high levels of male sex hormones can also experience thinning of scalp hair. Signs that these women display include plenty of body and facial hair, abnormal menstrual patterns and enlarged clitoris.

In addition, factors like anemia, thyroid disorders, fungal infections and stressful life situations can cause hair loss in menopausal women.

In the same way that female hair loss shows itself as a manifestation about three months after the originating cause begins, so too does female hair loss take about three months to show the effects of treatment. Estrogenic treatments like soy isoflavones or hormone replace therapies, will need to be implemented for about three months before you can determine whether or not it's working for you.

How negative a menopausal woman feels towards her hair loss differs from individual to individual. In situations where it affects her quality of life and self esteem, it is best to address the problem quickly. A proper evaluation by a professional for causes of hair loss is necessary to determine the underlying medical conditions and an appropriate course of treatment that produce the condition.

Kathlene Capelle writes on hair loss treatment, female hair loss, male hair loss, cause of hair loss, natural hair loss remedy and hair care tips. Her blog also includes home made recipes for hair loss. For more articles, tips and latest news updates, please visit http://www.hair-loss-remedy-central.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathlene_Capelle

Menopause Palpitations Symptom

2006-12-17T05:24:00.000-08:00

Alcohol: A Health Malefactor

by Rodrigue Monestime

Many people consider alcohol as a social drink because its associated with parties, relaxation and adventures. Since the dawn of civilization, mankind has been aware of the benefits and harms of alcohol. Today, for some alcohol is part of an everyday complete meal. Because evidence has proven alcohol a health benefactor when consumed moderately, some people tend to consume more than their body needs, which turns it into an insidious substance. While the health benefits of alcohol are being promoted since it prevents coronary heart disease and stimulates the circulatory system when consumed moderately, those benefits should not be encouraged because not only does alcohol increase the risk factors of many internal organs, it aggravates many environmental problems.

Alcohol consumption has been part of many cultures. Before the European colonization, the native population of the territory that would eventually become the United States used to produce weak beers or other fermented. In the past, alcohol was used as a trading medium, often bartered for highly sought-after animal skins and other natural resources such as indigo. During the colonial era, however, not only was alcohol used for medicinal purposes, it was also employed for religious ceremonies. For example, until the twentieth century, alcohol was the only painkiller generally available in western civilizations. In addition, alcohol was applied to help people recover their health and to reduce the risk of certain diseases including flu. Furthermore, liquor was associated with transcendental experiences and other cultural rituals that were purported to put people in contact with supernatural forces.

The peyote ritual is a prime example of these ceremonies. Peyote ritual is a sacrament intended to put one in communication with spiritual forces to instill harmony in ones life. The ritual follows a prescribed structure: it is composed of a leader called a Roadman who makes certain rules and regulations that are to be precisely followed. Finally, the Roadman uses a variety of sensory stimuli [including] cedar smoke and sprinkled water to prevent participants from drifting off into a disconnected state of conscientiousness. In fact, the peyote ritual is often used within Indian communities for the treatment of alcohol abuse.

Moderate consumption of alcohol lowers the risks for coronary heart disease. According to the United States Department of Agriculture and Human Services, moderate consumption is defined as no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one drink per day for women. Ideally, a drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 4 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits. In order for the cardio-vascular system to function properly, the tissue that constitutes the bulk of the heart requires frequent supplies of oxygen containing blood, which is delivered to the heart through the arteries. Cholesterol and other fatty substances can accumulate within the coronary arteries and ultimately block the flow of blood. Normally, this blood clotting condition is known as a CHD (coronary heart disease) attack. Alcohol plays a momentous role in facilitating the circulation of blood throughout the body. For example, alcohol prevents the formation of blood clots. In addition to cholesterol and other fatty substances impeding blood circulation, clotting also occurs from chemicals released into the blood through the arterial wall. Moreover, alcohol not only suppresses fibrin, the substance that promotes clotting, it produces certain substances that preclude the clotting process. Alcohol basically prevents the risk of CHD by eliminating most of the contributing factors.

In addition, alcohol consumption might play an important role in stimulating the cardio-vascular system. For example, laboratory research has demonstrated alcohols usage as a positive factor in preventing arterial narrowing in mice. Arterial narrowing in the human body occurs in the blood concentration of certain fatty substances that influence the deposition of cholesterol within the coronary arteries. In addition, alcohol may prevent the formation of clots within already narrowed arteries. For instance, analyses of blood samples of many individuals indicate that alcohol consumption increases blood levels of anti-clotting factors and decreases the stickiness of the platelets, the specialized blood cells that clump together to form clots. Other laboratory research suggests that alcohol might help protect against reperfusion injury, which is a form of blood flow to heart muscles weakened by lack of oxygen. Alcohol can be considered something of paramount importance since it enhances the cardio-vascular system.

In contrast, alcohol consumption has detrimental effects. It impairs bone development. To begin with, alcohol has some harmful effects on the two types of bone the human skeleton encompasses: cortical bone, which is dense and thick, forms the outer layer of bone and the shafts of the long bones of the arms and legs and cancellous bone, which is a porous meshwork of thin plates [which shape the vertebral column]. Alcohol is harmful for both types of bone although the most crucial effects occur in cancellous bone. Medically speaking, the process of skeletal growth and maturation involves three general phases: growth and modeling, consolidation and remodeling. Heavy alcohol consumption interferes with the growth-and-modeling phase by stopping the longitudinal growth rate and the rate of proliferation of bone. Moreover, usage of alcoholic beverages affects parathyroid, the hormone that regulates the calcium metabolism.

Overindulgence of alcohol causes adverse effects, particularly on women. For example, alcohol might indirectly affect bone through estrogen since the deficiency of such a hormone is a major contributing factor of osteoporosis. Over the last decade, many studies have shown an obtrusive relationship between the consumption of alcohol and bone loss. Specifically, a 1997 study conducted by a group of researchers showed that women aged sixty-five and older who were heavy alcohol consumers had an increased risk of vertebral deformity compared to moderate alcohol drinkers. Another study investigated the influence of moderate alcohol consumption on ovariectomized rats to imitate menopause. Subsequently, the rats that had their ovaries removed for the experimentation exhibited a diminished bone density and volume compared to nonovariectomized rats. Because fewer osteoblasts are found in the alcohol-fed animals, this finding leads to the conclusion that moderate alcohol consumption has no absolute health benefits since it inhibits bone quality.

Heavy alcohol consumption may lead to the necessity of liver transplantation. Because the liver is the largest organ in the body, it performs a variety on tasks, namely digesting, absorbing, and processing food. Moreover, the liver stores vitamins, synthesizes cholesterol, controls blood fluidity and regulates blood-clotting mechanisms. A liver disease is one of the most serious medical consequences of long-term alcohol consumption. In 1991, 25,000 Americans died mainly from liver cirrhosis, making it the elevenths nation leading killer. Another study demonstrates approximately one half of cirrhosis deaths have been ascribed to alcohol usage. Moreover, long-term alcohol consumption is the most prevalent single cause of illness and death from liver disease in the United States since the only possible cure is a liver-transplantation, which is a risky undertaking. In addition, the liver is so fragile that a single occurrence of heavy drinking is enough to dispose fat in the liver and may lead to alcoholic hepatitis, a severe inflammation of the liver characterized by nausea, weakness, pain, loss of appetite, weight loss and fever. Finally, alcoholic cirrhosis is the most advanced form of liver injury. The disease is characterized by progressive development of scar tissue that blocks the blood vessels and distorts the livers internal structure, impairing the liver's function. Basically, liver disease compromises the body�s ability to perform multiple functions essential to life.

Furthermore, alcohol consumption can damage the nervous system. Because alcohol is a toxic substance, it can cause alcoholic and chronic drinkers to suffer from abnormalities in their mental functioning and changes in behaviors associated with brain impairment. Alcohol consumption can have direct or indirect effects in the neurological system, which makes it even more dangerous to consume casually or regularly. Over the past twenty-five years, images of the brain created with modern neurological techniques, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computer Tormography (CT), generally show a [clear] relationship between prolonged alcohol consumption and changes in the brains structure. For example, MRI and CT results have shown brain shrinkage and brain lesions or tissue damage in some alcohol consumers.

In addition, alcohol has some adverse effects on many other neurological processes. While moderate alcohol consumption of alcohol lowers body temperature, severe intoxication in cold weather may lead to hypothermia, a massive, life-threatening decline in temperature. Moreover, alcohol usage can interfere with normal sleep patterns. Light consumption of alcohol can cause early sedation of sleepiness, awaking during the night and suppression of Rapid-Eye-Movement (REM). Psychologically speaking, REM is the dreaming state of sleep and when it occurs near wakefulness, it often produces vivid hallucinations. Another severe consequence of alcoholism is the Korsokoffs Syndrome (KS), a devastating memory disorder in which a person forgets the incidents throughout the course of his day or as they occur. Hence, because of this dramatic loss of short-term memory (also called anterograde amnesia), patients with KS virtually live in the past.

Not only is alcohol consumption detrimental for the user but for others in his path. Drunk driving is one of the nations leading killers. Over the past decade, drunk drivers have killed more than 42,000 people on a yearly basis. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, alcohol significantly increases the changes of fatal car accidents. In 1997, more than 17,000 Texans died mainly from drunk driving accidents. Another study of the same year shows more than 30 percent of driving fatalities involved alcohol consumption. Most shocking of all, teenage drivers represent less than 7 percent of the total population; however, the damage of teenage drunk drivers is more than 13 percent of motor vehicle deaths. In order to minimize driving fatalities, most states have now adopted the Zero Tolerance policy in compliance with the National Highway Systems Designation Act of 1995. Fortunately, with the new law in place, more than 17,000 lives are being saved every year.

In addition, alcohol plays a causal role in violence. Over the past forty years, many studies have shown a conspicuous relationship between alcohol consumption and violent events. According to these studies, alcohol is linked to one-half to two-thirds of homicides, in one-fourth to nearly one-half of serious assaults. In addition, alcohol consumption appears to be connected with sexual assault. For example, police reports have demonstrated 24 percent of a group of identified sexual offenders and 31 percent of their victims had been drinking. Moreover, although many people consume alcohol moderately and responsibly, studies show that a number of people drink to get drunk and therefore, their behaviors create some serious problems for people around them. For example, alcoholics and people who frequently binge drink usually have problems with friends, marriage, home-life, work and finances. Statistically speaking, 5 percent of drinkers reported that their drinking affected their finances. Furthermore, heavy drinking can have major social costs on society including lost of productivity in the workplace, family violence, which in most cases, leads to a divorce, accidental injuries and even death.

Although there are opposing viewpoints on the effects of alcohol, there is one factor on which researchers can agree: Heavy consumption of alcohol is harmful. From some researchers standpoint, moderate consumption of alcohol can also be harmful because it can interfere with the normal functioning of the liver, impede bone formation and most importantly inhibit the nervous system. Medically speaking, alcohol has no health benefits without negative externalities.

In summary, although some have found that moderate alcohol consumption has some benefits, the actual adverse impact that it has on society is far from being beneficial. In order to circumvent being affected by the deleterious chain-of-reaction that comes along drinking, society has to understand one fact: the best way to prevent something is never to start.

References

Alcohol and Coronary Heart Disease.

National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Oct. 1999. Sirs Researcher. 09 May 2001. http://sks.sirs.com.

Alcohols Harmful Effects on Bone.

Alcohol Health and Research World. 22 (Summer 1998). Health Reference Center Academic. 04 May 2001. http://www.ccla.lib.fl.us.

Alcohol Use and Its Consequences.

Canadian Social Trend. Fall 1995. Sirs Researcher. 08 May 2001. http://sks.sirs.com.

American Indian and Alcohol.

Sirs Researcher. 22 (1998). National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. 06 May 2001. http://sks.sirs.com.

Drunk Drivers Beware.

State Legislatures. November 1999. Sirs Knowledge Source. 07 May 2001. http://sks.sirs.com.

The Epidemiology of Alcohol-Related Interpersonal Violence.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse. 16 (1992). Sirs Government Reporter. 08 May 2001. http://sks.sirs.com.

Hunter, Beatrice Trum.

Some Effects of Alcohol. Consumers Research Magazine. 82 (Mar. 1999). Academic Search Elite. 09 May 2001. http://www.ccla.lib.fl.us.

Liver Transplantation for Alcoholics With Terminal Disease.

Alcohol Research and Health. Winter 1997. Sirs Researcher. 07 May 2001. http://sks.sirs.com.

New Benefits and Concerns about Alcohol. John Hopkins Medical Letter After 50. June 1997. Sirs Researcher. 04 May 2001. http://sks.sirs.com.

Oscar-Berman, Marlene et al.

Impairment of Brain and Behavior. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. 21 (1997). EBSCO Academic Search Elite. 03 May 2001. http://www.ccla.lib.fl.us.

Rodrigue Monestime Jr has authored several articles. He holds a BS in Business Administration with high concentration in Management Information System (MIS). He is the owner and designer of BizVita.com, a site designed for the busy professional with an all-in-one approach to the daily facts of the global business environment.

http://www.goapogee.net

http://www.apogeedesigns.org

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rodrigue_Monestime

Peri Menopause List Symptom

2006-12-17T05:21:00.000-08:00

Women�s Issues - Tips for Healthy Living

by Michael Russell

Women of all ages should visit their gynecologists for an annual physical examination to maintain optimum health. If they are sexually active, their annual physical should include a Pap smear test, which is a test that detects cervical cancer. The Pap smear has played an enormous role in decreasing the cervical cancer rate among young women. In addition, women between the ages of 40 and 50 should include mammograms along with their annual physicals. When women cross the age 50, they should include testing for colorectal cancer along with their physical examination.

Parents especially mothers, should teach their adolescent daughters about self-examination for breast cancer. Early awareness helps young women detect breast cancer in the early stages. All women should follow the below mentioned tips for healthy living. Mothers should follow these as well as educate their daughters about healthy lifestyles, so both mother and child grow to have healthier and longer lives.

Women of all ages need the mineral calcium in their body. Research suggests that the Post Menstrual Syndrome (PMS) including cramps can be reduced by 50% if proper calcium supplementation is followed. Osteoporosis after menopause can also be reduced drastically if proper daily calcium supplementation is followed. The menopausal women can reduce hot flashes and night sweats by taking vitamin E 400-800 mg per day. This also helps them protect their immune system and cardiovascular health.

If a woman is considering having children, then folic acid supplementation reduces the chances of them giving birth babies with birth defects. Stress is also one of the major factors that affect women�s health. Research has shown that women can add few more healthy years to their life by finding ways to reduce stress. One of the proven ways to reduce stress is practicing yoga for 20 - 30 minutes a day.

The chances of having hormonal imbalance increases after a woman reaches the age 30, so if you are at this age range, talk to your doctor so that he/she can recommend a prescription for over the counter hormone supplements. Visits to dentists should also be done once in at least six months to keep your mouth clean and maintain your beautiful smile to help you look younger. Quit or avoid smoking completely, as well as drinking alcohol. Try to drink at least eight ounces of water everyday. Drinking water prevents your body from dehydration and helps flush the impurities from the body. When going out in the sun use proper sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful rays of the sun, potential skin cancer, and heat strokes. Unless you are in a single healthy relationship, always use a condom and practice safe sex. This helps reduce the chances of developing cervical cancer and other sexually transmitted diseases. Also, try to integrate exercise for 20-30 minutes everyday to lessen your chances of developing heart related illnesses while giving you more energy everyday.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Women's Issues

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

In Menopause Symptom Woman

2006-12-17T02:21:00.001-08:00

Smoking Fetish Of Women

by Chris Read

According to one of the researches, it has been found that the smell and taste of cigarettes play a greater role in women's smoking behavior than in that of men. Another study found that cognitive-behavioral therapy aimed at changing attitudes about weight promotes smoking cessation by women. Even if we compare their stats with men, we�ll be surprised to know that the guys who smoke are one out of every three. However, while smoking as well as smoking-related deaths from such diseases as lung cancer have been falling in men, they have been increasing in women. Smoking, in fact, takes a greater toll on the health of women than men; a smoking woman loses, on an average, 15 years of her life while a smoking man loses just over 13 years.

In the first half of the 20th century, lung cancer in women was extremely atypical. In addition to that smoking wasn't very ubiquitous. Unfortunately, that soon changed when the tobacco industry started targeting women. In 1964, the first Surgeon General's Report on Smoking and Health was released and it became clear that smoking was a deadly habit which engulfed 45 percentages of women all over. A media campaign followed and smoking rates began to fall, as did tobacco industry profits. But the rates declined more in men than women; the tobacco industry had started their own media campaign, once again marketing directly to women.

Lung Cancer

By 1987, lung cancer had outdone breast cancer as the leading cause of cancer deaths in women.
Today, more women die each year from lung cancer than breast cancer, uterine cancer, and ovarian cancers combined. In fact, lung cancer among women is now considered a scourge, killing almost 75,000 in the US last year. Women appear to be more vulnerable to lung cancer than men, and they tend to get it at younger ages.

Symptoms of Lung Cancer

� Shortness of breath

� Fever with an unknown cause

� Hoarseness

� Chest pain

� Wheezing

� Coughing up blood

� Chronic cough

� Weight loss & loss of appetite

� Repeated bouts of bronchitis or pneumonia

Other Smoking influenced Diseases in Women

While lung cancer might be the most lethal disease caused by smoking, it's not the only one. Smoking doubles the risk of having a heart attack, and increases the risk of dying from a heart attack within the first hour. This is an especially serious problem for women since women are more likely to die after a first heart attack than men. Women who use birth control pills; and smoke are at especially high risk of having a heart attack.

Smoking also increases the risk of other cancers, including breast, uterine cancer, bladder and oral cancer. Smoking also increases a woman's risk of low bone density and osteoporosis.

Smoking-Related Disorders in Women

� Heart disease

� Stroke

� Lung cancer

� Emphysema

� Oral cancer

� Uterine cancer

� Breast cancer

� Bladder cancer

� Rectal cancer

� Colorectal polyps

� Osteoporosis

� Infertility

� Early Menopause

� Miscarriages

� Stillbirths

Family Matters

Smoking is not just bad for women; it's bad for their families and future families as well. Smoking can cause infertility in women. If a woman becomes pregnant, smoking increases her risk of miscarriages, stillbirths and premature births. Mothers who smoke during pregnancy are also more likely to have babies with asthma, sleeping disorders and chronic ear infections than non-smoking mothers. The menstrual cycle phase has an effect on both mood and tobacco withdrawal symptoms for women trying to quit smoking -- a finding that clearly suggests that women could improve their success rate simply by starting their quit attempt during certain days of their cycle.

Cosmetic and Other Considerations

Ironically, teens and young women often think smoking is sexy and glamorous. However, the consequences � such as stained fingers and teeth, tooth loss, gum disease, bad breath � are anything but sexy and glamorous. Smoking also hastens the aging process most likely because of its adverse effect on estrogen. It can cause early menopause, facial wrinkling, and permanent voice lowering and urinary incontinence.

Old Habits Die Hard

Women and girls are not only more susceptible than men to the negative consequences of smoking; they are more likely to become addicted to cigarettes even when smoking comparable amounts.

Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances known to a man�and woman. Researchers are studying gender differences in smoking behavior and working to develop treatment plans that will help more women end their nicotine addiction. In fact, nicotine is considered more addictive than heroin or cocaine. And nicotine is more addictive for women than men.

The highly addictive nature of nicotine is a major reason why most people have difficulty quitting smoking, and women have a harder time quitting than men. Another thing that makes quitting difficult for women is the weight gain that, unfortunately, often accompanies quitting smoking. On the other hand, the weight gain, which rarely exceeds five pounds, can be reversed by a healthy diet and exercise.

More importantly, quitting smoking can also reverse many of the deadly consequences of the habit.

Weighing the Benefits

A woman who stops smoking reduces her risk of stroke to pre-smoking levels. Within a year, her smoking-related risk of heart disease drops by 50 percent. After three years, the risk of a heart attack is no greater than for a woman who never smoked. Within five years, her smoking-related risk of heart disease can disappear altogether. Clearly, the benefits of quitting outweigh the possibility of any weight gain. So think again...Are we going the right way?

About the Author:

Chris Read is an associated editor to the website http://www.hateweight.com �The Weight Loss Portal�. Hateweight is committed to provide visitors with complete information on weight loss, obesity, healthy recipes, obesity diseases, latest news, personal views, articles and online community board on weight loss related topics. Your feedback & comments will be highly appreciated at chrisread001@gmail.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Read

Menopause Sinus Symptom

2006-12-17T02:21:00.000-08:00

Osteoporosis and Calcium Supplementation

by Michael Russell

Osteoporosis, one of the most terrible long-term consequences of estrogen deficiency, is common among post menopausal women, but it is not inevitable. A healthy diet, especially the consumption of adequate amounts of calcium and other minerals, has a significant part to play in both preventing and in slowing the progression of this disease. Generally, for healthy bones, women require 800 to 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily. During menopause, calcium needs increase to 1,000 to 1,500 milligrams daily.

Examples of food sources of calcium include dairy products, salmon, tuna, sardines, green leafy vegetables and tofu. You must check from time to time to see if your daily diet provides you with an adequate amount of calcium. If your diet falls short of this, or if you are not sure, take a good-quality calcium tablet to give you 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily.

One of the best sources of calcium to combat post menopausal osteoporosis is milk. A cup of milk daily will give a good start to meeting your calcium requirements. When it comes to cow's milk, calcium-enriched milk is recommended, which is low in fat and much higher in calcium than skim milk. If you are on a dairy-free diet, you may choose calcium-enriched soy milk instead. Some soy milks are calcium-enriched; while others are low in calcium, so it is bets to read labels to be sure the product you purchase is a good source of calcium.

There are a number of different supplemental sources of calcium. Bone meal, which comes from the ground bones of young animals, contains calcium from microcrystalline hydroxyapatite. Bone meal calcium is well absorbed, but it is possible for it to be contaminated with heavy metals such as lead. Calcium carbonate, which contains 40 percent elemental calcium, is the most concentrated and inexpensive form, but its absorption varies. Calcium lactate, calcium citrate and calcium gluconate are less concentrated forms of calcium, containing only about 15 percent elemental calcium but are better absorbed than carbonate forms.

Some calcium supplements contain a mixture of different types of calcium to improve absorption. Many good calcium supplements also contain vitamin D, which enhances the absorption of calcium from the intestines. Calcium is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach. It should not be taken, however, with high fiber-foods such as cereals, grains and legumes, as this will reduce its absorption. It can be taken with dairy products, fruits, vegetables and meats.

In addition to making sure you obtain enough calcium in your diet, avoid making dietary mistakes that can steal minerals from your bones. Keep your consumption of protein from animal sources to no more than 50 grams daily. This is the equivalent of the amount of protein found in six-ounces serving of meat or fish plus one eight-ounce glass of milk.

Our bones contain magnesium and the trace minerals zinc, boron, silica and manganese in addition to calcium and studies suggest that adequate amounts of all these different minerals are more effective than calcium alone in preventing bone loss during menopause. If you are on menopause and if your diet is not always perfect, it is bets you take a trace mineral tablet that contain all of these minerals.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to href="http://menopause-treatments-guide.com/">Menopause

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Menopause Symptom 26p Xxxxx

2006-12-16T11:21:00.001-08:00

Managing Menopause through Diet

by Kathryn Whittaker

Coping with menopause can be a real challenge. There are just so many different feelings and symptoms that women can experience. In fact, like puberty and childbirth, most women find menopause to be one of the most life-altering periods of their life. And it�s no mystery why. As well as the many physical symptoms women can go through, there is an emotional side to menopause that can easily be overlooked. It is, after all, the transitional phase in which a woman�s reproductive life comes to an end. And for many women this can be deeply upsetting. It brings to an end their propensity to bear children, and reminds women of the inevitable passing of time.

What many women don�t know is that you can manage, and in some cases minimise, the symptoms of menopause through diet and proper eating. The golden rule to diet during menopause is to make every meal an opportunity to eat healthy, fresh foods that will really nourish your body. Ideally your diet should already be a balanced and diverse one that incorporates plenty of whole grains, low-fat proteins and unlimited amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables. If your eating patterns are poor or lacking, menopause is the time to revamp them. Use this moment in your life to usher in a new phase of nutrition and conscientious self-care. Not only will it help your body weather the unexpected and sometimes unpleasant symptoms of menopause, it will stand your health in good stead for the rest of your life.

Since many women report weight gain during menopause, do not be tempted to go on a restrictive or radical calorie reduced diet to combat this problem. It will only deplete your energy reserves, slow your metabolic rate and potentially cause dietary deficiencies. Instead, make sure you eat three regular and wholesome meals a day, as well as a few nutritious snacks, such as fresh fruit or raw vegetables, yoghurt, seeds or nuts. Eating regular smaller meals helps boost your metabolic rate, which in turn will help fight any natural metabolic slowing during menopause.

Drinking plenty of water (ideally 8 glasses or more per day) and avoiding caffeine, alcohol and sugary drinks will help you manage hot and cold flashes. Avoiding spicy foods can also help minimise the impact of hot flashes.

Many women say they feel like they are on an emotional rollercoaster during menopause, and indeed some even experience more serious problems such as depression. Again, a focus on a healthy balanced diet can alleviate these symptoms. For example, it is well established that regular moderate exercise helps people cope with depression. Moreover, when people are depressed, serotonin levels in the brain tend to drop. Foods that are high in carbohydrates can help lift serotonin levels, thereby helping to reverse this trend. If you are experiencing depression or mood swings make sure to include foods that are high in complex carbohydrates such as whole grain breads, cereals and brown rice in your diet.

Another common complaints for menopausal women are headaches and migraines. If these are a problem for you, avoid caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners, chocolate and peanuts since these are all known �trigger� foods for migraines.
All menopausal women should try to include soy products and fish oils into their diets since they both have fantastic health properties. Soy in particular contains qualities that are similar to female hormones that can potentially help balance the normal hormonal changes that occur during menopause. A good multivitamin is also a sensible idea to supplement your diet. But remember, no multivitamin is a substitute for nourishing, wholesome eating habits!

Don�t let menopause rule your life. By adopting a healthy and balanced diet, you can control the signs of menopause and reinvigorate yourself for the next phase of wellness. So use food as your medicine during menopause � you�ll reap the benefits both through menopause and beyond!

Kathryn Whittaker has an interest in Menopause topics. For further information on Menopause please visit http://www.natural-menopause-relief-secrets.com/menopause.html or http://natural-menopause-relief-secrets.com/blog/2006/08/04/managing-menopause-through-diet/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathryn_Whittaker

Menopause Psychological Symptom

2006-12-16T11:21:00.000-08:00

How to Finally Put a Stop to Hot Flashes and Panic Attacks Now?

by Yap Kee Chong

Panic attacks and hot flashes often start off infrequently but if left untreated, they can quickly develop in intensity as well as frequency. To complicate matters, it is not always easy to diagnose the cause of panic attacks or hot flashes. Quite often the lack of diagnoses reflects embarrassment in the person who is refusing to seek proper attention for this problem.

There are several symptoms related to hot flashes and, panic attacks. Unfortunately, not all symptoms necessarily imply panic attacks, and that is why proper diagnosis is crucial. Some common symptoms include shortness of breath, sweating, choking, palpitations, and lack of emotional control, trembling, sweating, and tingling. The most common mistake made by people who suffer from panic attacks is to associate the attacks with specific activities and further assuming that avoiding those activities will free them from panic attacks.

The problem with this approach is that the panic attacks keep getting worse and the individuals will start avoiding one activity after another, until they will have given up a major chunk of what they probably enjoyed a lot. This is exactly the reverse of what they ought to be doing. This eventually leads them to a point where their educational, professional, and social life, all begins to suffer. On the reverse side, it is possible for some people to become too dependent on their family and friends, thereby displaying a diminishing level of confidence and self-reliance.

The people they are relying on might not understand this sudden dependence and fail to provide the required support or they may themselves show frustration because of their inability to provide support or understand the situation. This whole process results in further embarrassment to the person suffering from panic attacks, which in turn causes a further withdrawal from such help as might be available. All this will finally lead to clinical depression and all of its dire implications.

The cause of hot flashes is better known though they are not any easier to control. Some medical conditions are also known to trigger hot flashes. Hot flashes are identified through a hot sensation in the upper body, especially the face and neck that cause the person to turn red in the face. Besides this increase in temperature, there may also be palpitations, sweating, headache, and dizziness. A feeling of chilliness is quite common once the attack is over. Hot flashes are often caused by hormonal changes occurring during menopause. The exact reason for this is not known but the relationship is quite clear. The hormonal changes cause an extra amount of blood flow to the upper body and that causes the redness and heat.

Hormone replacement therapy is available but the side effects make it far less than ideal. There are many other medications and self-therapies offered to help control and manage hot flashes. The important thing is to note the triggers for hot flashes and try to avoid them. Stress is one of the biggest triggers known today so try to lead a less stressful life. Spicy food and alcohol can also trigger hot flashes. The same applies to hot baths and high temperatures.

Yap Kee Chong writes on various tips and techniques to stop panic attacks. If you like to claim an exclusive FREE report on how to eliminate your panic attacks in 2 simple ways and discover a secret natural cure for your panic attacks symptoms, drop by now at http://panicattack.onfasttrack.com/panicattack.html?EzineArticle=

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yap_Kee_Chong

Dizziness Menopause Symptom

2006-12-16T08:21:00.001-08:00

Does Menopause Last Long?

by Mike Jerry

"Does Menopause last long?" is often a question women ask their doctors. Women who are looking for menopause relief are always waiting for the end to come near. For many women, menopausal symptoms cause pain and are very uncomfortable, so they are looking for the end from the moment perimenopause begins.

How Long Does Normal Menopause Last?

For most women, they can expect all the stages of menopause to last between four and five years. From the first early symptom or sign to the last, hot flashes can actually range from one year to eight years. This is not much relief for women who have been suffering for several years already.

Premenopausal woman may already be experiencing the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause and wondering when it will all be over. Unfortunately, there is no specific time frame for menopause. Some people believe that women who have had heavy periods will have longer menopauses than people who have had lighter periods. Others believe that the earlier menopause or perimenopause sets in, the longer it is going to last.

The Average Length of Time

There is no strong evidence to support any predictors for the length of menopause. Every woman is different and every woman will experience menopause at a different pace. On average, a woman who is suffering from premenopausal issues will have four years before their period has disappeared. It may take longer for all hot flashes to disappear.

Relief for Symptoms

There are a variety of techniques available to help relieve the symptoms associated with menopause. Some of the most popular ways to relieve menopausal symptoms are:

* Medications like estrogen

* Herbal supplements like Black Cohosh and Chaste Tree Berry

* Reducing life stressors

* Exercise

* Eating right

Family and loved ones being supportive can also be a great relief for women suffering through menopause. Women who are surrounded by understanding people are going to have a much calmer menopause experience than a woman who is constantly struggling to get her symptoms heard and understood.

What can be done?

There is no predetermined amount of time that menopause will last. Some women may experience menopause symptoms for only a couple years while others may suffer for over five years. There is also no way to determine how uncomfortable the menopause process is going to be for a woman. Some women will not notice very many changes in their body as they breeze through menopause, while other women may feel like they are in agony for much of the process.

Relief of menopause symptoms can come from medication, herbal remedies, and emotional support. Although the time frame is unknown, women who have a good support system around them are more likely to find the menopause experience bearable.

For families who have a woman going through menopause, they can offer support by being understanding of the radical mood swings and bodily changes that the menopausal woman may be suffering from. Menopause is something that all women will go through at some point in their life. It is important to seek medical support as well as the support of family and friends during the long process of menopause.

Helping people who are experiencing the effects of menopause and perimenopause is our commitment! For beneficial tips, articles and other information sources please visit us at: http://www.yourmenopauserelief.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Jerry

Depression A Symptom Of Menopause

2006-12-16T08:21:00.000-08:00

Frequently Asked Questions
Is a women menopausal if her periods are regular but she is feeling down and has difficulty remembering things? 5. Is depression a symptom of menopause? ...

Estrogen Replacement Therapy and Mood
Is depression a symptom of menopause? Controversy is a central aspect of research in estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) for menopausal women and its affect ...

menopause following cervical cancer treatment -progesterone menopause
... think how dull your book would be. finding that some had heavier and more, depression a symptom of menopause , menopause fatty oils . ...

irregular heart beat menopause -herbal remedies male menopause
... irregular heart beat menopause menopause and its symptoms , irregular heart beat menopause depression a symptom of menopause , To change them. what do ...

Menopause - Depression A Symptom Of Menopause
Depression A Symptom Of Menopause. Soy And Menopause. Borage Oil/use In Menopause. Menopause And Dryness. Menopause And Memory. Weight Control And Menopause ...

depression a symptom of menopause , Menopause Discuss
A renowned publication for depression a symptom of menopause.

Menopause: Menopause, Early Menopause Symptoms
... depression a symptom of menopause pregnant after menopause ligaments tendons post menopause - peri menopause and weight gain menopause and acid reflux. ...

over the counter medications for menopause -menopause traumatic ...
Attention deficit disorder adult depression a symptom of menopause vitamins and minerals. and they come in Your phytoestrogens naturally from a variety of ...

menopause resource page - menopause symptoms
255. depression a symptom of menopause 256. depression fatigue pms menopause 257. early menopause support 258. early onset menopause ...

StarCraft Legacy
... slot online $ symptoms of herpes for men and women $ virginia gift baskets $ depression a symptom of menopause $ outsourcing software development ...

Menopause And Depression
... life when the ovaries stop Menopause and Depression, What you can do hp zd7000 notebook computer to help Yourself Is depression a symptom of menopause? ...

Menopause: Menopause Symptoms, Menopause
does menopause exacerbate symptoms of spinal cord injury depression a symptom of menopause. chicago menopause musical - natural product menopause soy and ...

Depression A Symptom Of Menopause :: MenopauseMeds.com
The authority site on Depression A Symptom Of Menopause.

Menopause: Early Menopause Symptoms, Menopause Symptoms
... menopause specialist california - depression a symptom of menopause, menopause vitamin. debate hormone replacement therapy menopause. fatigue menopause, ...

Menopause: Menopause Symptoms, Early Menopause Symptoms
depression a symptom of menopause. 33 signs of menopause - prevent early menopause - ovarian cysts during menopause. nutritional supplements menopause ...

Menopause: Menopause, Early Menopause Symptoms
... condition menopause hormone replacement therapy state. signs of early menopause depression a symptom of menopause - menopause treatment, ...

menopause. Best Quality. Best service. Best Prices.
... lyrics to menopause the musical. depression a symptom of menopause, early menopause quiz, fsh blood levels in menopause. gain menopause weight. dieting ...

menopause. Best Quality. Best service. Best Prices.
... menopause in women. depression a symptom of menopause, black cohash use in menopause, cervical position during menopause, menopause sangel viker ...

Menopause: Menopause Symptoms, 34 Menopause Symptoms
... average age of menopause. onset of menopause, signs of menopause. menopause + symptoms. depression a symptom of menopause hormone and replacement and ...

Breast Cancer Chemotherapy and the Endocrine System

by Michael Russell

Cancer chemotherapy affects the function of the ovaries in pre-menopause, specifically its ability to produce estrogen and progesterone. The ovaries secrete these hormones in a cyclic manner in response to trigger hormones produced by the pituitary gland. During the later part of a woman's reproductive life, during her late 40s or early 50s, the ovaries no longer produce these hormones and she is thus entering menopause. This process, where the ovaries shut down their sex hormone production, takes several months to a year or so to happen. The gradual decrease in estrogen and progesterone is usually accompanied by menopausal symptoms such as cessation of menstrual periods, hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Undergoing chemotherapy may accelerate menopause. This basically means that at the very same time a woman is handling a breast cancer diagnosis, she must deal with the changes and possible undesirable effects of the menopause. The same is true for woman on hormone replacement therapy who must abruptly stop her hormone treatment due to the diagnosis of breast cancer.

The association between breast cancer and endocrine status is complex and varies with every woman. The standard therapy for a recently diagnosed breast cancer patient is to stop hormone replacement therapy. This is because it has been found from numerous researches that estrogen increases the risk or breast cancer. In the past, women with breast cancer were advised not to resume hormone replacement therapy or begin it. Fortunately, this practice has changed and nowadays, treatment is based on each woman's individual situation. Nevertheless, you must consider the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy in relation to your disease.

Chemotherapy in younger women often produces symptoms of menopause that can be distressing and debilitating. Fortunately, women suffering from these symptoms can turn to Eastern medicine for relief. Certain herbal medicines used for many years by Eastern medical practitioners contain estrogen-like substances called phytoestrogens. Some of these herbs relieve symptoms without having any cancer promoting effects of estrogen. A few of these herbs are gotu kola and oil of evening primrose.

A lot of women have also found that through dietary modifications, they experience fewer hot flashes. Soy and soy products contain genistein, an estrogen-like substance. It is much less potent than the estrogen produced by the ovaries, but it does have the ability to improve hot flashes to varying degrees in most women.

After chemotherapy, many women will experience vaginal dryness as a result of estrogen deficiency. There are a number of effective vaginal moisturizers that can alleviate this symptom. Estrogen vaginal cream provides an excellent remedy, but in such cases, estrogen is absorbed systematically, which is usually contraindicated in the setting of breast cancer. The thinner the vaginal membranes, the more quickly estrogen is absorbed, thereby allowing large amounts to enter the body. New products are available on the market today in the form of a slow-releasing formulation estrogen vaginal inserts which may provide minimal amounts of estrogen to the body. These agents help ease the discomfort of dryness but do not provide so much estrogen as to stimulate growth in the cancer cells and interfere with treatment. You may want to discuss with your oncologist regarding treatment options when you are experiencing these adverse effects of chemotherapy on your endocrine function.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Breast Cancer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Menopause Symptom Consultant

2006-12-16T05:22:00.000-08:00

The Basics of Peri-menopause

by Nathalie Fiset

Menopause signals the end of a woman�s childbearing days. It is marked by the end of a woman�s monthly period. This is primarily because of the ovaries� inability to produce eggs. Contrary to popular notion, women do not have a wellspring of eggs. Their ova also run out. Menopause is also caused by the decrease in the secretion of the female sex hormones, progesterone and estrogen.

Like all natural processes, menopause does not just occur without any warning signs. In fact, the body prepares for it, knowing instinctively that a woman cannot cope with the changes abruptly. The preparation of the body is a very gradual process that can take years. This is what the scientific and medical community calls Perimenopause.

Peri-menopause or what is called premenopause is the period in a woman�s life when her body is starting to ready itself towards menopause. This often occurs during the mid-40s; although some may experience some signs and symptoms in their mid-30s.

Perimenopause is not just a short period of time, In fact, it can last for as long as two to eight years depending on the person. Some clinicians even say that it can last for as long as 15 years!

Up until now, there is still no explanation why some women have longer periods of pre-menopause than others. Because there is no specific year span when it occurs, women and even their doctors often overlook the symptoms of premenopause and its effects in the body.

Unlike during menopause where levels of progesterone and estrogen go on a nosedive, hormonal levels during premenopause are erratic. Levels rise and fall. Because of these changes, women may experience disruptions in their monthly menstrual cycles. Menstruation may suddenly extend for a few days or shorten to just a couple of days.

Shortened cycles are the result of the drop in estrogen levels, leading to the shortening of the follicular phase. Cycles can shorten to 24-26 days. This means that there will more frequent monthly cycles than before. On the other side, women may also experience infrequent monthly flow because of the lengthening of the menstrual cycle.

Women in premenopause may also find it hard to conceive although it is not impossible. This is because there are menstrual cycles when women do not ovulate.

Like in menopause, declining levels of the female hormones may result in the experiences of a host of symptoms that are often seen during menopause; symptoms like hot flashes, where women will experience abrupt changes in their body temperatures; incontinence; vaginal dryness because of the decrease in lubrication and elasticity; breast tenderness; mood swings and see-saw of emotions; sleeping problems and other potential complications such as bone loss and osteoporosis.

Symptoms of course vary from one person to another. Some may experience all of them while others may not feel a thing. In fact, some women�s menstrual cycles will just stop without ever experiencing any symptoms at all. This is the reason why premenopause is so hard to detect.

Because of the appearance of these symptoms, many believe that when detected, women undergoing premanopause must begin hormonal therapy in order to balance or combat these problems.

Declining levels of hormones may become such a problem that some doctors may even recommend surgical interventions such as hysterectomy, a procedure wherein the uterus is removed. This however only happens to a very small percentage of women. If your doctor recommends this, try to get a second opinion, as this is not a small thing. Other doctors may provide you with alternatives to it.

Dr Nathalie Fiset is a family doctor and a certified hypnotherapist. For more information go to: http://www.bestmenopause.com/peri-menopause.html http://www.aperfectharmony.com or http://www.a-1hypnosis.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathalie_Fiset

High Blood Pressure Symptom Menopause

2006-12-16T02:21:00.001-08:00

Menopause: Male Fretting

by Dr Robert Gamble

Menopause: Phytosterols

(Go ahead; try saying it, �Fi-to-ster-ols�)

Menopause (definition): The almost inevitable fretting by husbands whereby they first anticipate (sometimes in sheer terror), the looming specter of being �outside the affections of the marital bedroom� looking in�

Let�s concede the obvious. Menopause affects desire�and it can affect marriage.

That concern is as old as civilization. Even Roman husbands dreaded the onset of this problem associated with menopause. What was it they said?

�Hic astabo tantisper hac forma et factis frustra?�

(Rough translation: �Am I to stand idle and unnoticed, so handsome and so heroic, all for nothing?�). Menopause does evoke theatrics in men at times.

Of course, menopause is really a condition which develops in women usually between the ages of 45- 50. Menopause occurs when an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone causes symptoms such as:

� the uncomfortable hot flashes,

� vaginal dryness,

� osteoporosis (reduction in bone density),

� loss of drive, and

� Fibrocystic growths.

There�s certainly much more to menopause than that of marital relations between spouses. Incidentally, the loss of drive occurs in menopause when the hypothalamus (an endocrine gland) lessens marital desire due to reduction in the production of progesterone.

Menopause: normal or abnormal condition?

Progesterone deficiency simply doesn�t exist in many cultures around the world. As a result, menopause is practically unknown among such people. Why? The diets in those cultures are rich in certain nutrients found in fresh vegetables and legumes.

Those nutrients are called natural Phytosterols. Foods which are rich with such natural Phytosterols keep the body�s progesterone capacity at the necessary levels. Menopause doesn�t develop in these women. They show no symptoms of menopause. They do have strong marital desire, strong bones, no hot flashes�forcing the men to fret about other things besides menopause.

Progestins and Menopause

Of course, when we have a medical problem, it seems we immediately turn to some sort of drug to �fix it.� Progestins are substances which are made to act like progesterone. So� voila! The problems of menopause are expected to disappear.

Anyone with a prescription of progestins to help them with the symptoms of menopause knows that �it just ain�t so.� Progestins do not provide all of the same effects as progesterone and there is a substantial body of research concerned with their side effects. Yes, some relief from menopause may take place but the side effects can be considerable.

I know, I know. �Nulla tam bona est fortuna de qua nihil possis queri.� (�No luck is that good that you can�t find something to complain about.�).

Well, if you are looking for relief from menopause and tempted to take prescriptions, consider the side effects of progestins:

Acne
Jaundice
Depression
Insomnia
Nausea
Tenderness
Fluid retention
Bleeding

Menopause and DHEA

Because the �mother hormone� � DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) � is used by our bodies to produce as many as 50 other hormones, many use it to help regulate the estrogen � progesterone imbalance and to maintain good health.

Again, we have a problem like menopause, so we jump at the chance for a prescription. But, synthetic DHEA can result in liver damage. On the other hand, almost all of the degenerative diseases out there, are accompanied by low DHEA levels. Synthetic DHEA supplementation creates an imbalance with substances produced by our body, such as cortisol.

That imbalance creates further problems- such as low energy, Thyroid dysfunction, decreased immune function (see immune system at http://www.glycoshare.com/), compromised sleeping habits, Muscular dysfunction and many other issues and complications.

Wouldn�t it be better to simply take foods �or natural supplements � which contain Phytosterols to deal with menopause? Menopause can be prevented or mitigated by the progesterone produced from natural Phytosterols. Why go to drugs for relief? DHEA can be regulated by the progesterone produced by Phytosterols. Why, I say, do we run for drugs as our only choice?

Incidentally, Phytosterols can aid in other conditions besides relief of menopause and its symptoms:

1. Fat loss (Are you beginning to understand why dieting often doesn�t work?)

2. Bre*astCancer involves low levels of DHEA. Phytosterols help the body handle that issue and in turn, aids in combating breastcancer. In fact, one study showed that of 5,186 women who developed breastcancer, all of them � 100%! � had a dramatic fall in their DHEA levels up to 9 years earlier (R.D. Bulbrook, J.L. Hayward, C.C. Speir, �Relations Between Urinary Androgen and Corticoid Eccretion and Subsequent BreastCancer.� Lancet. 2:395-398.) 1971.

3. PMS along with menopause (See my article on PMS and Phytosterols).

4. Depression

5. Diabetes (for help with diabetes see my articles �Diabetes: The $132 Billion

Dollar Pandemic� and �Diabetes: �So Far, So Good��)

5. Stress

6. Prostate

7. Obesity

8. Arthritis

9. Many other diseases and conditions.

Phytosterols is a natural food substance which translates into hormonal action in the body. It is safe and it is almost a �menopause prevention program� by itself�

Women need it for menopause. Persons using phytosterols don�t have to worry about side effects as they would with progestins and synthetic DHEA.

However, as with any treatment, you should consult a health care professional, if you have concerns.

Perhaps a new �definition� for menopause can begin to emerge. Yes, let�s try that.

Menopause (New Definition): Menopause is no longer the disruption of the marital bedroom. Rather, it is replaced by the almost inevitable glee experienced by husbands whereby they (sometimes quite �boyishly�) anticipate the constancy of your doting attentiveness lavished upon them as they stand before you �idle and noticed, so handsome and so heroic. �

Are you thrilled girls?

Finis

(I�m done.)

About the Author

Dr. Robert Gamble is retired from a very successful medical/surgical career spanning three decades. He is active in researching medical issues such as glyconutrition� and offers his insights for public benefit. For information about Glyconutrition: Go to http://www.glycoshare.com or write NetPublish@myarticleannouncer.com Call Toll Free: 1866.735.5871

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Robert_Gamble

Consultant Menopause Symptom Uk

2006-12-16T02:21:00.000-08:00

Menopause and Anxiety � How to Bring Natural Relief

by Ryan Arsendatama

Even though menopause is a natural stage of a woman�s life, it often creates anxiety due to misunderstanding of physiological changes. Menopause and anxiety should be understood as cause and effect due to the decline of estrogen level in woman�s body. Thus, proper treatment for menopause can effectively bring emotional relief and eliminate depression and low-esteem in women.

Emotional Changes in Menopause

Menopause is characterized by a permanent cessation of woman�s natural menstrual cycle. The production of the estrogen hormone reduces significantly in a woman during menopause causing her ovaries to stop producing eggs. As the estrogen level drops, the blood vessels expand rapidly leading to temperature rise in the woman�s skin. This can further cause hot flashes that can be felt around the chest, shoulders, head, and neck. The sudden spread of warmth makes the woman to sweat and feel soaked. Many women also experience raid heart beating, insomnia, irritability, and restlessness. All those feelings then create psychological symptoms that include mood swings, depression and anxiety.

Sex and Weight Gain Factors

The feeling of anxiety during menopause could also be caused by misconception of sex and weight gain. There is a myth that a woman will lose her sexual desire during menopause, but in fact the midlife years can be a great time to enhance the sexual experience as there is no restriction from having to use birth control due concerns of possible pregnancy. In the case of vaginal dryness or painful intercourse, the woman can always apply lubricants or creams. After all, sex is about emotional feeling and is free of any hormonal changes.

Another factor that often leads to anxiety during menopause is the fear of weight gain. Biologically the fall of estrogen level can slow down the metabolism, which potentially results in weight gain. Because of this, it is important for women in menopause to maintain a balanced diet. Diet should be particularly high in Calcium and Phytoestrogens, chemicals that mimic and supplement estrogen-like hormones. Phytoestrogens are useful to maintain proper bone density post menopause. These chemicals can be found in soy bean, tofu, linseed, rice, oat, and red clover.

Other Useful Things to Do

Some other things that a woman can do to reduce anxiety and depression feelings during menopause are:

Regular exercise: doing routine exercise can significantly reduce hot flashes. Mild exercises such as walking, climbing stairs, swimming or lifting weight help to strengthen the bones and decrease the risk of osteoporosis.

Proper Sleep: if a woman has trouble going to sleep during menopause, it will be a good choice to take a hot shower before bedtime or drink a glass of warm milk. Taking sleeping pill occasionally is also recommended, with doctor prescription.

Social activity: post menopause, some women find a new hobby like writing, gardening or pottery. Others meet old friends once a week for social. Basically, focusing on other useful things can significantly increase the quality of life post menopause.

Physiological changes in menopause are inevitable and normal. They may bring feelings of anxiety, depression, and moodiness. However, understanding on menopause treatment can greatly increase the awareness of psychological effects of it.

Proper treatment on menopause can eliminate emotional fluctuations. Find useful
sources on menopause and anxiety here. Understanding menopause facts can greatly increase your awareness of this natural stage of woman's
life. Read also menopause treatments using hormonal and natural ways.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Arsendatama

Natural Treatment Menopause Symptom

2006-12-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

Endometriosis Treatment

by Josh Riverside

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects millions of women. It is a painful condition the tissue that lines the uterus attaches itself to areas outside of the uterus creating lesions. When a woman is diagnosed with endometriosis, the doctor will consider her age, symptoms and desire for pregnancy before prescribing a course of therapy individualized to her needs.

A number of treatment options exist for a patient with endometriosis, but the patient has to weigh the risks versus the benefits. Drugs such as GnRH Agonists and Danazol used to treat endometriosis often put a woman into chemical menopause. Some treatment methods involve an attempt to shrink endometriosis lesions by stopping the ovulation process. The side effects may be significant with many of these drugs and recurrence of the symptoms soon after ceasing of treatment is a real problem.

A doctor may recommend treating endometriosis with surgical therapy that includes the surgical removal or destruction of growths. Medical therapy reduces growth size and provides temporary relief. In some cases, a doctor may suggest a combination of surgical and medical therapy that is known as combination therapy. A conservative surgery is another treatment option to remove or destroy endometriosis and restore distorted anatomy. To surgically remove endometrial growths, a doctor will usually perform a procedure called a laparoscopy. During laparoscopy, a slender, light-transmitting tube is inserted into a woman?s abdomen through her navel. The laparoscope allows doctors to see the size and extent of endometrial growths and remove as many of them as possible.

Sometimes, it becomes necessary for a woman to opt for radical surgery, including removal of the uterus and ovaries, as well as removal of all endometriosis lesions. This is perhaps the hardest decision that women with endometriosis face. Other treatment options include simply treating the pain with painkillers. As endometriosis symptoms often continue even after treatment, some women have found non- traditional means of alleviating symptoms including herbal remedies, aromatherapy, dietary modifications, vitamin supplements and relaxation techniques.

There is much research underway with huge amounts of money being invested into treatment methods for endometriosis. Some medical experts opine that if as much money was spent on research on how the disease starts in the first place, the development of a treatment that leads to a cure would be much more focused and meaningful.

Endometriosis provides detailed information on Chronic Endometriosis, Endometriorsis And Infertility, Endometriosis, Endometriosis And Cancer and more. Endometriosis is affiliated with Male Menopause.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Josh_Riverside

Cure Menopause Symptom

2006-12-15T11:22:00.000-08:00

Healthy Diet During Menopause

by Jeanette Pollock

Maintaining a healthy diet is important at any stage in life. But during menopause, it may be even more important. Since you will be losing estrogen, it is essential to get enough vitamins and minerals throughout the day to improve overall health. Losing calcium is another factor women have to deal with as they age. By learning how to eat at the beginning stages of menopause, you will be eating better and feeling better for years to come.

Eat foods that are high in fiber. Fruits, vegetables such as broccoli and spinach are great sources of many vitamins and also fiber. Fiber will keep your bowels clean which will give you more energy during the day.

Getting more calcium into your body will help keep your bones healthy and also help when losing weight. Drink plenty of milk and eat foods such as yogurt, cheese, and dark green leafed vegetables will help you achieve your daily allotment, which should be 1000mgs per day.
Avoid foods that are high in sugar and fat. This includes most dessert items as well as bacon, and hot dogs.

Once you have modified your diet, you will begin to have more energy and you will begin to sleep better at nighttime. In addition to eating properly, it is also important to exercise as well. Drink plenty of water in order to stay hydrated and try to walk or perform some other sort of exercise at least three days a week. Menopause is not the end of your life, but rather a beginning of the next half of it.

Jeanette Pollock is a freelance author and website owner of menopausedomain.com. Visit Jeanette's site to learn more about menopause diet.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeanette_Pollock

Menopause Symptom Chronology

2006-12-15T08:22:00.000-08:00

A Blog On Menopause - What You Needed To Know - But Did Not Know To Ask

by Michele McRae

Life has its curves, bumps, cautions, stops, starts and then there is the "PAUSE", Menopause. This pause calls for a whole new perspective on life styles, comforts, adaptability and even outlook on life. If you are having symptoms such as Hot Flashes, Mood Swings, Weight Gain, Irritability, Decrease in Sex Drive, vaginal dryness or depression, just to name a few. YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

Menopause and Perimenopause are periods in a woman's life wherein their bodies begin to change. The problem with this change is that it does not come quietly. It usually comes with a vengeance. Just as women�s bodies are different, so are the symptoms experienced by each woman.

During this time of change listening to your body is very important. Pay attention to your symptoms and don't just ignore them, hoping they will go away. There are solutions to the problems of each symptom. Menopause is a change of life not the end of life. There is still much to be gained just before, during, and after Menopause.

To go through menopause and keep control you need HELP!! Knowledge is power. "Streams of Success" will give you just the help you need to tame that Monster and enjoy life again. Having quality of life is very important. Meeting our obligations and responsibilities are a necessity. Go ahead take control.

We are a company that specializes in providing answers to some of the health care concerns of women. We focus on helping you balance Good Health and Financial Solutions.

http://www.streamsofsuccess.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michele_McRae

Breast Menopause Symptom

2006-12-15T05:22:00.000-08:00

Pros and Cons of Hormone Replacement Therapy and Estrogen Use Alone

by Patsy Hamilton

Combination hormone replacement therapy and estrogen only replacement therapy are not prescribed as much as they were at one time for the relief of symptoms associated with menopause, due mostly to studies performed by the Women�s Health Initiative. Those supporting estrogen replacement therapy have noted that these studies focused on the risks associated with long-term use and that no studies have been completed to date concerning bio-identical hormones. Dietary supplementation with herbs and other plant components may provide a safe and effective alternative to women seeking relief from menopausal symptoms.

Many women have questions about the safety of hormone replacement therapy and estrogen replacement therapy for the prevention of hot flashes, night sweats and other menopausal symptoms. The latest research supporting estrogen replacement at lower doses than were prescribed in the studies performed by the Women�s Health Initiative indicates that women may experience a 60-70% reduction in hot flash symptoms. Doctors hope that lower dosages of hormones will be safer, but continue to advise that they should be used for the shortest period of time possible. This may leave many women frustrated, since some menopause related symptoms may appear five or six years before the onset of menopause and may continue for several years after their last period.

Research supporting estrogen like substances found in plants, which are called phytoestrogens or isoflavones, show that dietary supplements containing soy isoflavones can reduce hot flashes by 87.8%. This is about equivalent to the relief experienced by women who use traditional dosages of combination hormone replacement therapy and estrogen only replacement therapy.

The health risks associated with combination hormone replacement therapy and estrogen only replacement therapy include blood clots and stroke. Those supporting estrogen use that is bio-identical believe that since the hormones used are molecularly identical to those produced by the human body, it should be safe. Opponents of hormone replacement therapy and estrogen replacement therapy of any kind believe that menopause is a natural part of a woman�s life, and that efforts to keep hormones at a level similar to those of a younger woman will ultimately cause health problems of many kinds.

As with many drugs and other compounds created by pharmaceutical companies, the initial research focuses on relief of symptoms and unwanted side effects. Estrogen replacement therapy first became popular for the relief of menopausal symptoms during the sixties and continued to grow in popularity, until a study published by the New England Journal of Medicine in 1975 reported that women using estrogen were seven times more likely to develop endometrial cancer than women who had never used estrogen. The study showed that the risks increased with continued use and that those women who used estrogen for seven years or more were 14 times more likely to develop endometrial cancer.

In order to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, pharmaceutical companies added synthetic progestin (similar to the hormone progesterone) commonly referred to as combination hormone replacement therapy and estrogen only replacement was typically reserved for use by women who had undergone a hysterectomy at some time in their past. Those promoting and supporting estrogen and progestin use theorized that estrogen causes the lining of the uterus to build up, but without progesterone, it is not shed, thus adding synthetic progestin would cause the endometrium to be shed and reduce the risk of cancer.

Opponents of hormone replacement therapy and estrogen use quote studies indicating that estrogen can cause breast cancer, heart disease, stroke and other health problems. The majority of experts now advise that if a woman chooses to use HRT, of any type, she should use the lowest dosages for the smallest amount of time possible. For information about alternative solutions for the relief of menopausal symptoms and special nutritional requirements for women, please visit the Menopause and PMS Guide.

Patsy Hamilton was a health care professional for over twenty years before becoming a freelance writer. Currently she writes informational articles for the Menopause and PMS Guide. Read more at http://www.menopause-and-pms-guide.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patsy_Hamilton

Post Menopause Symptom Treatment

2006-12-15T02:21:00.000-08:00

Menopause--Information and Treatment Options

by Sylvia Seamands

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is defined in the dictionary as the permanent cessation of the menstrual cycle. This occurs when a woman's egg supply and ovarian function is depleted. It can occur naturally, or surgically with removal of both ovaries. A woman is said to be in menopause when there has been no menstrual period for 12 months. The average age of menopause is around 50 years in the US. Perimenopause refers to the time before menopause when the hormone levels begin to decline, the menstrual periods may become irregular, and fertility is reduced. Perimenopause may come before actual menopause by as much as 2-8 years, the average being about 4 years. Smoking is known to accelerate the transition phase by 2 years, as it speeds the aging process in general.

The classic symptoms of menopause include night sweats, difficulty sleeping, vaginal dryness, depression, and mood swings. One US study showed nearly 60% of US women had hot flashes as early as 2 years before menstruation stopped. Other symptoms in the perimenopause/menopause time frame include poor handling of stress, a more obvious pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS), weight gain, water retention and bloating, problems with memory. These symptoms are related to the drastic changes that are occuring in the body with reducing levels of estrogen and progesterone.

What About Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)?

The question as to whether or not to use HRT has now become a very complex issue. Nearly 30% of menopausal women in the US are taking hormones, commonly given to relieve the side effects as listed above. In the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) 16,000 women were studied for over 5 years, but then the study was prematurely stopped when it was discovered that the combination of estrogen/progesterone replacement therapy resulted in an unfavorable risk to benefit analysis. There is no doubt that the therapy did benefit women's hot flashes and risk of developing osteoporosis. Unfortunately the study revealed definite increased risk of developing endometrial (uterus) cancer, breast cancer, venous blood clots, and probably a risk of stroke and heart attacks. There was also question as to whether the use of HRT could be linked to gallbladder disease, ovarian cancer, colon cancer and even possibly an increased incidence of memory loss and dementia. Some of these risks were directly linked to the time HRT therapy was taken. In other words, the longer you take HRT therapy the higher the risk.

What About Alternative Therapy?

Several naturally occuring plant extracts have been shown to help with the symptoms of menopause and present a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy:

Black Cohosh--studies in Germany have shown a decrease both in the number and level of menopausal symptoms.

RedClover--rich in phytoestrogens, these little molecules can be extracted from plants such as soy and have a similar structure to estrogen itself but lack the side effects of estrogen itself.

Flaxseed--Also contains a substance with weak estrogen activity.

Soy Isoflavones--also contain molecules with similar structure to estrogen.

Of course, you should talk to your doctor about your choices of therapy during the menopause and perimenopause time and what the possible side effects and risks may be to the various treatment options.

Sylvia Seamands,MD--Dr. Seamands is a retired physician who spent years as a practicing Internist and medical director for several managed care orginzations. She authors information articles for and co-owns http://www.womenshealthshoppe.com, which is dedicated to women's health issues and alternative health solutions.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sylvia_Seamands