Archive for April, 2007
April 25th, 2007 at 11:23am
Under Menopause
Here are the 35 menopause symptoms compiled by Judy Bayliss and Dr. Brown:
1. Hot flashes, flushes, night sweats and/or cold flashes, clammy feeling
2. Bouts of rapid heartbeat
3. Irritability
4. Mood swings, sudden tears
5. Trouble sleeping through the night (with or without night sweats)
6. Irregular periods; shorter, lighter periods; heavier periods, flooding; phantom periods, shorter cycles, longer cycles
7. Partial or complete loss of libido
8. Dry vagina, resulting in painful intercourse; a general drying-out that can include eyes, mouth, joints, skin
9. Crashing fatigue
10. Anxiety, feeling ill at ease
11. Feelings of dread, apprehension, doom – thoughts of one’s own death, picturing one’s own death
12. Difficulty concentrating, disorientation, mental confusion
13. Disturbing memory lapses
14. Incontinence, especially upon sneezing, laughing; urge incontinence, where leakage occurs when one needs to urinate
15. Itchy, crawly skin – feeling of ants crawling under the skin
16. Aching, sore joints, possible carpal tunnel syndrome
17. Increased muscle tension
18. Breast tenderness
19. Headaches increase or decrease
20. Gastrointestinal distress, indigestion, flatulence, gas pain, nausea
21. Sudden bouts of bloat
22. Depression that can become overwhelming; feeling of loss of self that has been dramatically relieved with hormone therapy
23. Exacerbation of existing conditions
24. Increase in allergies
25. Weight gain, especially around waist and thighs, resulting in ‘the disappearing waistline’
26. Hair loss or thinning on head, in pubic area, or on whole body; increase in facial hair
27. Dizziness, lightheadedness, episodes of loss of balance
28. Changes in body odor
29. Electric shock sensation under the skin and in the head – “the feeling of a rubber band snapping in the layer of tissue between skin and muscle…the precursor to a hot flash.”
30. Tingling in extremities, which can also be a symptom of B-12 deficiency, diabetes, or depletion of potassium or calcium
31. Gum problems, increased gum bleeding
32. Burning tongue, burning roof of mouth, bad taste in mouth, dry mouth, change in breath odor
33. Osteoporosis (after several years)
34. Changes in fingernails: softer, crack or break more easily
35. An additional symptom some report: tinnitus, a ringing in the ears or sounds of whooshing, bells, or buzzing.
This list was compilied by Judy Bayliss and Lucy L. Brown, Ph.D. at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine
By admin
April 17th, 2007 at 10:09am
Under Female Menopause
Menopause: What’s after?
Post-menopause is what comes after menopause and it is hardly ever discussed.
So what the good news about post-menopause?
*No more heavy bleeding
*Hot flashes are thing of the past,
*No more mood swings or irritability,
*night sweats; menstrual pads and Tampons are thing of the past
*Pregnancy becomes a non issue. (Safe sex is still advisable for STD prevention)
Post-menopause enables a woman to seek new challenges; with the children grown and independent, it is the perfect opportunity to go back to college; or take a trip to a place they’ve never been. To be able to have the time to spend on what you enjoy.
It takes time and thoughtful consideration to determine, out of all the possibilities, what you might choose. The ability to rediscover who you are is uplifting and invigorating.
Once you are in the post-menopausal stage, your passions and desires will be heightened. In addition, you will not look upon this time as the golden years, as some would suggest, but will simply continue in the circle of life with a renewed sense of passion, purpose and freedom.
By admin
April 14th, 2007 at 05:38pm
Under Female Menopause
One of the most asked questions about menopause revolves around the loss of one’s sex drive, so let’s discuss sex after menopause; fact versus fiction.
While both men and women think that menopause is synonymous with the loss of sexual desire, it definitely is not the case. In fact, most women will tell you the sex just gets better. Perhaps because there are no preconceived worries about becoming pregnant, both men and women can pursue their passions with wild abandon. Another fact is that while aging can slow down the process, it is considered normal if sexual desire decreases just a bit. This by no means indicates that sex is no longer an integral part of your life after menopause; far from it!
Other causes can play havoc with your sex life after menopause they are:.
* Certain medications can change the way you feel.
*In addition, certain diseases can affect your sex life such as heart disease; diabetes and arthritis.
* More importantly, the way you see yourself can be just as important a factor in your decreased sex drive as the aforementioned conditions.
Scientific studies have shown that estrogen is not related to changes in sexual response in postmenopausal women. Researchers found only one issue related to decreased estrogen production during menopause; and that is, painful sexual intercourse. Another finding asserted that the only women to experience loss of sexual desire during the postmenopausal period “were those women who believed that loss of interest in sex is a normal part of the aging process.” This theory asserts that the facts surrounding loss of sexual desire are based solely on fictional assumptions and not factually based.
While some women have taken certain drugs to increase their sexual desire, studies have shown that these hormonal drugs can greatly increase the incidence of breast cancer. It is advised to seek medical assistance to determine the best course of action regarding loss of sexual desire. Hormonal replacements such as testosterone may not be the answer.
The facts of sex after menopause are:
• Loss of sexual desire is not experienced by the majority of menopausal women.
• Loss of sexual desire is not associated with decreased levels of estrogen.
If you are experiencing decreased sexual desire after menopause, talk to your doctor to determine what type of treatment he can prescribe that is safe and effective. More importantly, talk to your partner in an honest and open manner so that he or she is aware of your feelings. Perhaps there are alternatives you can both use to arouse the sexual desire in each other.
By admin
April 12th, 2007 at 03:19pm
Under Female Menopause
For some woman, menopause can be a blessing; or you may see it as a continuation of the curse.
How to accept menopause in a positive way is the subject of this discourse.
While menopause is another stage in the cycle of a woman’s life, each and every woman reacts differently to it. While some view it as a “new lease on life,” encompassing all of the physical, emotional, and sexual freedom associated with it, others may see it as an end to that part of life which is fulfilling and nurturing. Depending upon the harshness of the menopause symptoms, one can look upon menopause in a positive manner, while simply dismissing the associated drawbacks as just a part of the overall process.
Menopause, can viewed as a positive benefit, is most likely associated with these immediate benefits:
* No longer do you have to deal with monthly menstrual cycles which include the cramping, the bloating, and the mood swings.
* You can have sex as often as you like without having to worry about becoming pregnant. Reportedly, sex is even better than before!
* Menopause is the quintessential sign you have reached an emotional and physical maturity to be able to handle anything that life throws at you. Your relationships may even reach an entirely new level of communication.
You can accept menopause in a positive way by embracing life and living it to its fullest. While most women accept the changes their bodies will undergo over time, menopause allows you the opportunity to embrace your body and the changes it is going through.
During menopause there are some periods of awkwardness as you learn to adapt to your changing body, both physically and emotionally. However once you have passed through this emotional and physical upheaval you will blossom into your mature self, an empowered women filled with wonder and excitement.
This is an important milestone in your life which should be embraced with positive mental and emotional thought. Loving relationships, intimacy, and communication are parts of the circle of life after menopause.
Enjoy menopause, but if it become too much, seek help from your doctor, pharmacist and friends. There are always other women you can talk to and discuss what you are going through. Their comfort and reassurance will guide you to a path of immeasurable freedom and joy.
By admin
April 12th, 2007 at 10:32am
Under Female Menopause
Are you having trouble sleeping at night? Or waking up in a sweat? Are you feeling depressed or irritable?
You could be going into menopause.
What most people refer to as menopause is actually a pre menopausal stage called perimenopause. Menopause doesn’t start until a year after your last period. During menopause, you are more susceptible to serious problems such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. In order to prevent serious conditions during menopause, it is helpful to recognize symptoms of perimenopause so you can start treatment early and stop problems before they start.
So what are some of the common and not so common symptoms of menopause?
Some of the physical Symptoms are:
* Hot flashes. They are probably the most common physical symptom of menopause. They occur when you feel like it is terribly hot when the room is at a reasonable temperature.
* Night sweats. This is simply a hot flash that occurs during the night. Nights sweats can generally wake you from a sound sleep (often covered in sweat) and feeling cold.
* Heart palpitations. Your heart feels like it racing or beating strangely. Heart palpitations are more rare and serious than other symptoms. You should go to a doctor if you experience any heart related problems.
What are some of the other symptoms?
Some other symptoms may include:
* Incontinence (inability to control urination)
* Dry skin and hair loss.
* Changes in the Menstrual Cycle. This is usually the first sign that you’re entering perimenopause, although menstrual changes can be caused my other problems or even just stress. You may experience a lighter or much heavier flow, early, late or irregularly spaced periods. You may even miss a few.
* Changes in Mood. You may find yourself experiencing various emotional changes ranging from increased irritability, anxiety or simple mood swings, to more serious problems such as depression.
* Changes in Sleep Patterns. Even if you’ve always been a good sleeper, you may stop being able to fall asleep at night or wake up repeatedly and not get back to sleep. Sleep problems can also be caused by other perimenopause symptoms such as depression and night sweats.
* Sexual Changes. Many perimenopausals have a decrease in sex drive. You may also notice other symptoms including vaginal dryness.
While these are not the only symptoms of early menopause, they are the most common. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is recommended you visit your doctor. This way, you can not only treat any symptoms that are too severe, but also take steps, such as dietary changes, to prevent complications.
By admin
April 11th, 2007 at 12:52pm
Under Female Menopause+ Male Menopause
St. John’s Wort grows in dry areas in temperate climates throughout the world. It is a shrub-like weed that spreads rapidly. It was believed to have bloomed on the birthday of St. John the Baptist, June 24; hence the name St. John’s Wort.
It can be used as a mild antidepressant, and is also being studied for its possible affects on other mood disorders such as anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. People taking St. John’s Wort show an improvement in mood and ability to carry out their daily lives.
St. John’s Wort seems to be able to relieve mild depression, and also makes is useful in treating chronic fatigue syndrome and the mood swings associated with menopause and PMS. It is also considered a mild sedative and when used in the treatment of insomnia. St. John’s Wort increase the time spent in deep sleep by helping to produce melatonin, a sleep-regulating hormone.
St. John’s Wort can be found in most health stores, chemists, and pharmacies. The recommended dosage for St. John’s Wort extract, when taken for mild to moderate depression, is 500-1,000 mg per day. Results may be varied from individual to individual. You should consult with a health care professional to determine how long to use this supplement.
Pregnant women should avoid this product, and those who are photosensitive may experience an allergic reaction when exposed to sunlight. Some people may experience stomach upset, restlessness, mild allergic reactions or fatigue when using this herb. It should not be taken by those who have chronic or clinical depression, and should never be used with prescription anti-depressants or any medication that interacts with MAO inhibitors. A doctor or pharmacist should be consulted before taking this herb in combination with any other medications.
By admin
April 11th, 2007 at 12:19pm
Under Male Menopause
Male menopause is called Andropause, it includes annoying physical symptoms and the increased risk of serious problems.
Andropause usually occurs between the ages of 40 and 55. It is caused by a drop in testosterone; the male hormone. All men experience a drop in hormone levels as they age; however not all men experience the same rate of decrease and few have symptoms that are severe enough to seek treatment.
Common symptoms of Andropause include:
* Fatigue and general loss of energy
* Decreased sex drive
* Loss of physical abilities (decreased strength and muscle mass)
* Change in mood and disposition
* Increased body fat in the upper body and midsection
With Andropause the symptoms come one slowly and there isn’t one surefire indicator to show onset. That’s why it’s important to be able to recognize the symptoms so treatment can be started as soon as possible.
Male menopause not only presents with annoying symptoms, it also comes with an increased risk for developing serious health problems. Men with decreased testosterone levels are at an increased risk for osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
Severe Andropause can be treated through hormone replacement therapy. Replacing lost testosterone can cause a remarkable improvement in the symptoms of many men and has been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease as well; however, it is not for everyone. You should not have this therapy if you have had breast or prostate cancer. Your doctor may also not want you to use testosterone replacement therapy if you have liver, heart, or kidney disease, edema, an enlarged prostate, or diabetes. You may also not be able to have this therapy if you wish to have children, have had an allergic reaction to certain medications, or if you are on certain medications. Your doctor should discuss your medical history with you and determine if you might benefit from this treatment.
While male menopause is a very common problem in men, it has gone unnoticed in the general public for a long time. If you have these symptoms, you should seek treatment and see if their may be help for you.
By admin
April 11th, 2007 at 12:17pm
Under Female Menopause
Menopause is a fact of life as women age.
Not only do women going through menopause experience annoying and painful physical and emotional menopause symptoms, they’re also at a much higher risk of developing dangerous problems such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
If you’re going through menopause, you’ve probably seen a doctor and discussed medical treatments, but before you start on hormone replacement therapy or other drastic treatments, why not try treating your menopause the natural way.
Here are 5 natural supplements that can help you solve your menopause problems:
* Soy. Soy protein contains chemicals called isoflavones, which act as a mild natural estrogen and can help with hot flashes and night sweats. It may also help keep your bones healthy. Just be sure not to take too much, about 50 grams of soy protein per day is enough.
* Black Cohosh. This supplement can be used to alleviate hot flashes, help with mood changes, and even help you sleep better. While it has been tested and found to be safe, there has been concerns about liver damage.
* Red Clover. Taking this supplement daily has been shown to not only decrease the number of hot flashes (one study showed a 58% decrease!); it can also help stop some of the long term health problems associated with menopause. Red clover contains isoflavones and may decrease loss of bone mass, improve cardiovascular health, and may even protect you against certain cancers.
* St John’s Wort. Along with physical menopausal symptoms women also experience symptoms of depression. St Johns Wort can be taken up to two years to help alleviate mild depression. Just don’t take it if you’re already on an antidepressant because there can be interactions.
* Vitamins and Minerals. You probably already know that you should take a calcium supplement to help decrease bone density loss, but did you know you should also take magnesium to help you absorb and use all that extra calcium? You should also increase your intake of Vitamins E and C to help with estrogen absorption. You should be able to find a quality multivitamin for older women that will give you these nutrients and more.
There are a few things you should be aware of when using these or any other herbal remedy. First is that you should consult your doctor and pharmacist before you take anything. These remedies can have harmful drug interactions and side effects. You should also take care to get a high quality supplement, and ask around on health websites or with a medical professional.
By admin
April 11th, 2007 at 10:15am
Under Female Menopause
We all know that exercise is a vital part of staying healthy. What you may not know is that the older you get, the more important it is for you to work out regularly. As your body ages, you not only may experience hot flashes and mood swings associated with menopause, you’re also at a higher risk for dangerous diseases. Many menopause symptoms can be helped or even stopped through regular physical activity.
One of the biggest concerns for women approaching menopause is the loss of bone mass. This can lead to osteoporosis and other serious consequences. Many doctors suggest getting plenty of calcium to help prevent bone deterioration. Getting regular, weight-bearing exercise is also essential for maintaining good bone health. If you’re not in very good shape, walking and other light exercise can be enough to get you started. You should eventually work yourself up to resistance training. You should also consider adding flexibility training; being limber will keep you from getting injured sometime down the road.
Along with osteoporosis, women who have reached menopause are also at an increased risk of developing heart disease. Many women assume that only men are at risk, but heart disease is a top killer of women as well as men. Plus, women are less likely to know they’re having a heart attack, so they don’t get treatment as quickly. Regular aerobic exercise can do wonders for keeping your heart in good shape. Even if you aren’t going through menopause yet, getting regular exercise is a great way to keep your heart healthy for a long time.
Another common symptom of menopause is mood swings. As estrogen levels fluctuate, so do your emotions. And unlike mood changes due to your menstrual cycle, menopausal mood fluctuations are much less predictable. Exercise can work to ease symptoms of depression, decrease mood fluctuations, and decrease irritability.
With the onset of menopause, many women gain weight. While it’s usually not a substantial amount, it can increase the risk of certain weight related diseases. Regular exercise can help you keep your weight in check, reducing the risk of serious health problems in the future.
If your biggest concern about menopause is the immediate physical symptoms, many women notice a decrease in hot flashes and other physical menopause symptoms when they go on a regular exercise program.
Sure, exercise takes some planning and work, but the are worth the effort.
By admin
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