When was the last time that you changed your brand or type of contact lens? If you have been using the same brand and type of contact lenses for several years, it may be time for you to learn about the newer versions that are on the market today. You may find that there is no longer the need to struggle with putting your lenses in each day, cleaning them, and messing around with those little storage containers. Extended wear contact lenses may be an option for you like they are for me. After being told five years ago that I could not wear extended wear lenses, the design of them have changed and I now wear them for an entire week before removing them! Learn more about the various contact lenses on the market today to help yourself, find some that are perfectly comfortable and less of an inconvenience!
If you're a women getting ready to or currently going through menopause, the symptoms can often be extremely uncomfortable. Women who deal with menopause have a higher risk of osteoporosis, a condition that causes brittle bones. Your gynecologist may be able to assist you through this time with a number of different options and treatments. One of these options is known as hormone replacement therapy.
What is It?
Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, is a treatment that is designed to supplement your body's naturally occurring hormone levels. As women age, certain hormones may drop down in numbers, raising the risk for heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Most candidates for this treatment are women who have severe menopause symptoms, or if osteoporosis runs in their family genetics. The two main types of hormones that are replaced or supplemented are estrogen and progesterone. Your gynecologist will be able to better determine whether you need to replace one of these hormones or both.
How can it Help?
When the vital hormones are administered, they can help the body produce calcium, which is essential for healthy bones. These hormones can also help keep cholesterol levels at an acceptable level. This can help to prevent heart attack and stroke. As women age and begin to go through menopause, the level of these hormones decrease quickly. Symptoms of menopause can include hot flashes, headaches, mood swings, and sleeping issues. With HRT, the gynecologist can help monitor and add back these vital hormones, which will help to decrease the menopausal symptoms.
How do Treatments Work?
Some women only deal with menopausal symptoms for about one year, while others may cope with it for several years. The gynecologist will administer the HRT via a pill, patch or gel. Most patients will receive a low dose initially, so the doctor can monitor progress. If it is discovered that more frequent or higher doses are needed, they can adjust the hormonal levels or dosages. Some women may only need HRT for a year or less, while others might need to receive the treatment for up to five years.
Who Should not Have Treatments?
Some women may not be eligible for HRT treatments. Women with a risk or history of blood clots should not receive HRT. Other factors include those who are coping with breast cancer or heart disease, and women with liver problems. Also, women who are not dealing with the symptoms of menopause are not eligible to receive the treatments.
For more information, contact Central Iowa OB/Gyn Specialists, PLC or a similar location.
Share