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Category Menopause Symptoms

December 25, 2008

Many women are not sure of the age of menopause and whether or not the plaguing symptoms are indicators of the change of life. And, health care professionals do not always have the answer to the question, "What age does menopause start?" The truth is that every living physical body is as unique as every individual's personality and there are no specific ages or times when the body begins the process of hormone reduction to terminate the child bearing phase of life. However, there are generalities that can be applied to the physical time clock and there are definite indicators that will let a woman know that her hormone production is decreasing. It will be very important for each woman to discuss the changes in her body with a doctor and make no assumptions. Doctors will also need to listen carefully to a woman's concerns, never assuming that she may be too young for menopause or that the change of life is the reason for a middle aged woman's physical or emotional concerns. Too many other illnesses mirror menopausal symptoms and it will be necessary to obtain a complete physical examination when any of the following symptoms occur.

A woman can begin to suspect that she is entering into perimenopause, which is the very beginning stages of the change of life, when she skips a period for no apparent reason. There are other factors that can contribute to monthly irregularity, such as stress, diet, and extreme exercise, but once these other factors have been ruled out, a woman should speak with her doctor about the possibility of perimenopause. Knowing the answer to "What age does menopause start?" can help guide women in speaking with her doctor. Irregular monthly cycles are indicators, but not every woman will skip periods. Some will continue with their cycles, yet demonstrate other symptoms. This can make it difficult to determine what exactly is happening in the body and often there are mis-diagnosis. However, because the age of menopause is generally between forty-five and sixty-five, patients and medical professionals can use age as a determining factor. But, this does not mean that every depression episode experienced during this fifteen year span can be contributed to the change of life. Nor does it mean that depression experienced before the age of forty-five indicates early menopause. Again, each symptom must be evaluated by a professional medical personnel.

Early menopause is a term that is used to describe the change of life as it occurs in women under the age of thirty-five. Often, this early condition is attributed to heredity. If a female's mother experienced the change of life in her thirties, then the chances that her daughter will begin this process at the same age increase. Though it is very unusual, some women have even experienced the change before their thirtieth birthday. One can see how hard it is to answer the question of "What age does menopause start?" The change of life can begin at any age.

Beyond monthly irregularity, other physical signs that women can watch for are hot flashes, leg cramping, heavy bleeding, restless sleep, and night sweating. Unstable emotions can be signs, as well. No matter the age of menopause, all women experience the adverse effects of hormone reduction. Hormones affect us physically, mentally, and emotionally and all three areas of life are challenged when there are imbalances. Women may find that they are depressed or feeling blue for no reason at all. They may become easily irritated and short tempered. Normal everyday occupancies can be overwhelming and thinking can be fuzzy. Some women at an early age of menopause even complain of forgetfulness.

All of these symptoms can be a bit consuming when happening all at once. This will be a time when great patience is exercised between doctor and patient and woman and family. Turning to the Bible as the ultimate source of comfort will be one way to handle the stress. God's Word has a healing effect and His promises can restore a hope for the future. Women may also want to investigate natural remedies used in alleviating some of the symptoms. Apart from birth control pills and synthetic hormones, there is not much that can be done about monthly cycles, but hot flashes and mood swings can be addressed by natural herbs and supplements. When the age of menopause occurs in young women, regulating a cycle may be a good approach.

In conclusion, when asking "What age does menopause start?", one can never know the right answer. And, one should never make assumptions about any ailment or symptom. If any of the signs discussed in this article are currently being manifested in one's body, then call a doctor for a complete physical evaluation. Then, discuss the different approaches to addressing the discomforts and concerns. One's body is important, and needs to get the best care during this physically difficult time in life.

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/menopause

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What Is Menopause

December 25, 2008

"What is menopause?" is a question often asked by those who seek information about the physical and psychological changes that occur in women at approximately 50 years of age when reproductive abilities come to an end. An understanding of menopause is not only important to women, but to the men who love them in order to meet the inevitable challenges ahead. For men who have no idea regarding what is the cause of menopause, a class in Women's Health 101 may be appropriate. Since men do not experience a major physical upheaval toward the later third of life as women do, there has been a lack of perception and understanding about this important and difficult process. It can affect relationships, families, health, future outlooks and has other important implications as well. For generations, menopause has been an unwelcome rite of passage into another stage of life for many women who have been largely unaffected by positive support from many family members, friends and church groups.

Most husbands really do care about the unexpected upheaval that this new stage in life can cause the ones they love. However, the lack of simple education regarding what is the cause of menopause has kept many men and other potential support groups from offering much needed understanding and help during this unstable time in a woman's life. The onset of this stage in women has been described as similar to a fast moving train running smoothly down a track until it unexpectedly comes to a screeching halt to avoid an inevitable collision ahead. A women's body has been tuned to childbearing abilities by normal hormone levels since teen years and when pre-menopause occurs, the physical upheaval that diminishing estrogen levels cause can be quite traumatic and devastating to many women.

A physical crash actually occurs in women that starts a chain of physical and psychological events which can certainly be managed but are scientifically proven to occur. Most men or women are not typically aware of how much hormones actually influence the physical functioning of both genders and especially those of women who enter menopausal years. An understanding among both sexes regarding what is the cause of menopause can be extremely helpful to all. Much of a woman's perception about herself, her usefulness, sense of well being and of course, physical well being can be affected by menopause. Changing levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause high cholesterol, heart disease, osteoporosis, thinning of the skin and hair, weight gain and other serious repercussions to previous good health.

Psychological difficulties also can occur as a result of changing hormones which include indiscriminate moods swings and irritability. One of the problems with this area of physically induced change, is a perceived notion that menopause is generally just 'in the head.' Women need to receive health care from a caring and knowledgeable professional that takes seriously the changes that occur during this midlife stage. While this major bodily change can be difficult for the women affected, it can also be difficult for family and friends who want to understand issues regarding what is menopause in order to help their loved one.

While much of the psychological and physical changes brought on by menopause are already problematic, the stress associated with these changes further exacerbates emotional difficulties. More stress, discontent and a real sense of loss are typical feelings for many women who deal with the personal, physical deterioration resulting from the phase. A continued sense of support, love and affirmation provided by husbands, children, other family and friends can make this major life transition as smooth as possible. Men who truly want to affect their wives from a positive point of view are always the winners when they understand what is the cause of menopause. When spouses can more fully understand this huge life change, the family relationship can be strengthened.

Women who are fortunate enough to have relationships with family members that help, encourage and believe the seriousness of this normal transition of life will more likely make it successfully through the 5-10 years of unstable body changes that they face. Women who also have a strong faith in God through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ have a huge reservoir of strength to draw from when faced with life's inevitable changes of what is menopause related. He who created men and women is also able to sustain both through the winds of physical, psychological or spiritual change. He is the best Support and Guide of all. "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31)

There are many women who have very little negative symptoms induced by the hormonal changes caused by menopause. In fact, many women that understand what is menopause related symptoms and how to cope with them, are more likely to enjoy a special freedom that comes from moving into a new phase of life. These women are no longer concerned about child bearing and are usually free from the responsibilities of child rearing. Women and their husbands can enjoy each other in a new way, but with more resources and wisdom than before the childbearing years. In the 21st century, many women are finding advanced medical and alternative treatments that can alleviate or relieve altogether the annoying symptoms of life's last major physical change. By understanding what is the cause of menopause, women today can commit themselves with renewed vigor to husbands, grandchildren and commitment of service to the Lord in their later years.

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/menopause

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Weight Gain Caused By Menopause

December 25, 2008

Many women experience weight gain caused by menopause and other factors that accompany the process of aging. As the human body gets older many things begin to work differently and even stop working as before. Women, especially, will experience extreme bodily changes during perimenopausal conditions. There are several reasons the weight gain is prevalent during the onset of the change of life, but there are certainly methods that a woman can incorporate into her life to combat putting on the pounds and even have weight loss during menopause. Getting information about what is going on with the body during the change of life will help a woman understand, and therefore take offensive and informed action in keeping her physical being in top condition for years to come.

First, and foremost, most excessive weight conditions are attributed to poor eating habits. Knowing how the body responds to certain foods will help the woman who has weight gain caused by menopause understand what happens when the body takes in certain foods. Processed foods such as white bread, starchy pastas, ice cream, fried foods, and other comfort snacks and meals create an insulin resistant condition in the body which effects the metabolism. This condition will change most calories into stored fat. Insulin resistance can only be reversed with a time of eating foods that are not high in calories, fat, and sugars.

Women that are experiencing the change of life, or are demonstrating symptoms that point to the onset of reduced hormonal productions, will generally experience a certain amount of stress. Weight loss during menopause can be difficult because of the stressful side effects of hormone changes within the body. Daily hot flashes, night sweats, and irritability can all be a source of stress. Also, sleepless nights and exhaustion can add strain to an already complicated condition. Research concerning the weight gain caused by menopause is showing that when stress levels are high, the body conditions itself to store fat, expecting a crisis. Hormones that react to stress will block any attempt at losing pounds. In today's culture, a woman is likely to experience extreme stress under normal circumstances. With the added stress factors that accompany the change of life, adding extra pounds can accumulate quite suddenly.

The excessive consumption of sugary foods can also be a contributing factor in gaining during times when the body is changing. The human body will not keep hormone and blood sugar levels stabilized when there is an excess of sugar invading the blood stream. Although everyone knows what foods contain large amounts of sugar, it is nice to remind ourselves, once again, that cookies, candy, pastries, soft drinks, cakes, and pies all are in this category. These foods may offer comfort during stressful times, but honest facts reveal that they only compound an already difficult situation of weight gain caused by menopause.

And, if all of the above did not make weight loss during menopause difficult enough, we cannot forget to factor in the estrogen losses. When ovaries begin to stop producing eggs, a woman's body will compensate the loss by using other production sources such as skin, organs in the body, and body fat. And, of course if the female body needs fat to produce needed hormones, the female body will consider fat content very important, maintaining excess for other uses. So, of course with all of the factors considered, it is easy to see how and why it is believed that there is significant weight gain caused by menopause.

Aging is a natural part of life on planet earth, and we can take hope in the truth that Christ will return and at that time the believers in Him will receive an imperishable body that will far exceed the one that is used on physical earth in health and in performance. "For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself." (Philippians 3:21) As a female's body goes through the discouraging but normal change of life, she can call upon her Lord and Savior to give her strength and wisdom during these trials.

Those with perimenopausal conditions will want to also incorporate exercise into their daily routines. Weight loss during menopause can be much easier when there is at least thirty minutes a day of some type of activity. Exercise will also help release a certain amount of hormones, helping spirits stay high and balancing emotional well-being. There are many diet plans and other helpful suggestions listed online. Women are encouraged to get the facts about weight loss during menopause before embarking on any fad diet, or believing false reports about the inability to keep excess pounds away during this time.

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/menopause

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Menopause Help

December 25, 2008

Women looking for menopause help may be suffering from a variety of symptoms that are not only causing physical discomforts, but also are disrupting the quality of life. The change of life can be a difficult time period for a woman. Not only does she have to deal with extreme physical changes throughout her body, but she must also learn to cope with many new mental and emotional challenges as well. Hormone production can greatly affect emotions, and when the body begins to diminish hormone production, moods can swing and depression can set it. Also, women may find the fact that reproduction is no longer possible, hard to deal with. For years menopause has been the subject of jokes in social circles and the medical profession only skimmed the surface of this event, addressing physical symptoms alone. But, the change of life is dramatic in many ways, and women will want to gather as much menopause information as possible to get the facts, the support, and the treatments needed to get through this time of life.

Most every woman will experience the adverse side effects that are associated with menopause. Not only is the older woman faced with these troubles, but women from a diverse age group have to deal with the trauma of no longer having a body that can reproduce, and also with the changes that are occurring with the emotions and in different areas of the body. There are women in their twenties and thirties who have early menopause, and these women deal with the same, if not more, issues that the woman over fifty addresses when she begins this inevitable journey. Thankfully, the menopause information available today is addressing the many aspects of the change of life and is providing help that can help a woman cope more effectively. The woman who seeks menopause help can find answers to her questions and support for these trying times.

The fist signs associated with the change of life are often called perimenopause, which refers to the slowing down of hormone and egg production. A woman is not actually considered as menopausal until she has gone twelve consecutive months without having a period. But, the perimenopausal period is considered by many to be the most difficult to deal with. Menopause information reported by doctors in the field tells that this time period can last from one to ten years, depending. Periods can become erratic and there may be lighter bleeding or heavier bleeding. Other physical symptoms may include cramping, headaches, leg pain, sleeplessness, and the infamous hot flashes. Mental activities can be affected also, with forgetfulness, a foggy feeling, and confusion being the top reported complaints. And, there are the mood swings. Troubles and challenges that were met with a healthy attitude in years past may now reduce a woman to tears. She may even realize that she is over-reacting to a situation, but there is a sense of having no control over emotions.

Obviously, when a woman is dealing with these issues, there will be challenges for every member of the family. Beyond the need for each woman to get menopause help in addressing her symptoms and challenges, the entire family will benefit when there is adequate support, both physical and mental, rendered. And, the key to getting beneficial aid during this time is in getting menopause information. When equipped with the facts and a plan to systematically address what is going on in the body, the female gender can greatly improve her coping mechanisms and her ability to function normally.

The first place to begin a search for correct and concise menopause information is with a doctor. As more research is being accomplished, doctors are taking a second look at the trauma that a woman feels she is experiencing during the change of life. Reports are indicating that women are beginning to be heard in the doctors office and any empathy extended is going a long way. Women might want to ask friends or family members for referrals, seeking a doctor that has a reputation of being alert to the latest treatments and compassionate for the mental and physical trials the woman is going through. Working with a doctor that is sensitive, compassionate, and knowledgeable could be the difference between managing effectively or spinning out of control.

The Bible can also be a wonderful source of support during this time. Women will find as they seek guidance from professionals and look for information online, that the Bible can provide the spiritual comfort component. There is no trial or challenge that Christ does not understand. He is the Mighty Counselor and His support is more valuable than any prescribed medication. "Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort." (2 Corinthians 1:3)

The Internet can be a valuable source in finding more menopause help. There are articles and commentaries listed throughout, as well as practical advise about daily living through the change of life. The Internet may also be a good place to research or look for doctors to consult. Equipping oneself with quality information about everything that is happening in the body will truly make a difference. Seek to discover how to manage the changes, with either natural menopause help or with prescribed medication, equipped with wisdom.

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/menopause

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Testosterone Replacement Therapy

December 25, 2008

Men sometimes need testosterone replacement therapy to help rectify problems with their male sexual organs. The main hormone (testosterone) in the male's sexual reproductive system maintains the normal function of the reproductive organs. The testes produce this chemical. When either too much or too little of the hormone is produced, problems will result. Hypogonadism is insufficient production of the hormone and hypergonadism is production of too much of the hormone. Men with primary hypogonadism (congenital or acquired) or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism are candidates for this treatment. But managing this treatment can be difficult and may result in testosterone therapy side effects that are not desired.

This hormone produces normal growth and development of male sex organs and maintenance of secondary sex characteristics in the body. When insufficient hormones are produced, the child may develop small genitalia and have a lack of virilization. Also present after puberty may be diminished libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and a reduction in body hair and facial hair. Some men also develop high levels of anger, confusion, depression, and fatigue. A physician may decide to use testosterone replacement therapy to counteract these problems. The first thing that happens with this treatment is that the patient undergoes hormonal screening to measure the total serum level. This is done in the morning. When the level is low or the patient complains of low libido, serum prolactin level is also measured. This may mean that the pituitary gland is not functioning properly. If so, then the patient should visit an endocrinologist.

A doctor will also take a medical history, especially regarding any developmental abnormalities at birth and any difficulties encountered during puberty. The doctor will also ask questions about sexual function, beard growth, the strength of muscles, and energy level. He will inquire about the occurrence of nocturnal erections, how rigid the penis becomes during erection, and what types of sexual thoughts, desires, and fantasies the patient has. Some men who need testosterone replacement therapy also experience hip fractures and decreased bone density. The best types of treatment will not result in testosterone therapy side effects. The treatment should replicate the body's normal production of the hormone so that bone density can be stabilized, the body can increase in muscle strength, mood and energy increases, and sexual characteristics can be restored.

Testosterone replacement therapy can be taken in several different ways. There are products using tablets, injections, or transdermal systems. Different treatments bring about different types of testosterone therapy side effects. When taking tablets, sometimes liver function changes, causing abnormalities in the liver. In this case, physicians will order more testing with liver scans and biopsies. If injections are administered, they are given into the muscles. Sometimes this treatment results in fluctuations of hormones in the body. One of the transdermal treatments is the use of scrotal patches. They produce high levels of circulating dihydrotestosterone (DHT) due to the high 5-alpha-reductase enzyme activity of scrotal skin. One of the testosterone therapy side effects with this treatment is skin irritation. With any of these medications, ongoing care by a physician is necessary to ensure that hormone levels stay at normal rates.

The doctor who is checking for testosterone therapy side effects will be looking for any changes such as outbreaks of acne, increase in breast size, and breast tenderness. Other symptoms may be sleep apnea and very rarely fluid retention. When a patient receives medication via transdermal delivery, serum levels should be checked in three to twelve hours after receiving the medication. With an injection, tests should be taken each three to four months. Any test that comes out over 500 ng/dL or less than 200 ng/dL will require adjustment of the dose given to the patient. Two other tests should be given: a digital rectal examination (DRE) and prostate specific antigen (PSA). The PSA is a protein produced by the prostrate cells. This blood test measures prostrate health. If the PSA come out high, the patient may have an enlarged prostrate or prostrate cancer. A PSA level of 1.5 or higher may signify an enlarged prostate gland. The doctor may order other tests to make sure that other diseases are not present. A PSA test can be ordered for any man as a prevention tool against other diseases.

Those who want to live healthy lives will listen to the advice in Psalm 19:7, "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple." Any type of medical intervention means that the patient needs to be wise about his care and take an intimate part in developing healthcare practices. With proper treatment, a man can experience an overall sense of well-being within three to six weeks. Sexual performance will be heightened as well as energy levels, mood, and concentration. This will result is a better self esteem and greater confidence in whatever is accomplished. If a person does not test with a low level of hormone, testosterone replacement therapy will not benefit his health. So this is not a treatment for those who just want to heighten their libido. These procedures and medications are meant for those who have a definite medical problem. They are not meant to deal with emotional or psychological problems that are not related to physical deficiencies or disease processes. Also note that there may be other long-term risks that haven't yet been shown through studies of the treatments listed because hormone therapies are such new remedies.

For more information: http://www.christianet.com/menopause

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