Dry itchy skin is a common complaint. FACT: Without estrogen, the body tissues lose elasticity and shrink. A common complaint is you feel like your skin is crawling or it becomes sweaty and hot. There is an increased sensitivity to the sun, problem with teeth such as bleeding gums, lose teeth, and the eyes may be dry and itchy. FACT: Estrogen is a hormone that is circulated in the blood and affects both the well being and general state of health. FACT: Menopause is triggered by hormonal changes in the endocrine system. FACT: The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates (the father of medicine) was the first to describe menopause, which he put at the age of 50. FACT: A blood test called the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can reveal the arrival of menopause. The common medical response to menopause and estrogen loss is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). HRT is a synthetic form that acts as a replacement for the natural hormone, estrogen, the body produced in higher levels prior to menopause.
Hormone Replacement Therapy must be prescribed by a licensed physician. Recent studies indicate HRT has the potential for significant side effects. The side effects should be carefully evaluated. More information on the risks of HRT can be found from the following sources:
1. National Women's Health Network - 514 10th Street NW, Suite 402, Washington, DC 20004, Phone 202-347-1140.
2. National Institution on Aging Information Center - P.O. Box 8057, Gaitnersburg, MD 20898-8057, Phone 800-222-2225, Publishes resource directory for older people, resources for womens health and aging.
Because of the risks now found to be inherent in hormone replacement therapy, all natural estrogen formulations from plant sources are becoming available. Carefully formulated hormone balancing creams are available both with and without herbs that resolve the physical and emotional changes that occur during menopause but from all natural sources. Look for herbal balances that include black cohosh, chaste tree berries, dong quai, evening primrose oil, red clover, alfalfa, licorice, and ginseng. These creams are available over-the-counter.
Exercise and diet are also important during menopause. The best type of exercise will build strength and stamina, increase flexibility, and help balance and concentration. Exercise such as tennis, brisk walking, jogging, and step aerobics are recommended. A carefully balanced diet, often including supplemental vitamins and minerals, help the body function at its optimal level.
Typically, Vitamins A, C, E and the mineral Selenium, commonly termed antioxidants, become more important in protecting body cells from damage as we age. Vitamin D, combined with calcium, formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin are typically recommended.
