The 4 Signs Of Water Retention

If you are a woman you have probably had it at one time or another. It makes you feel bloated and you probably are. This is sometimes what is more commonly referred to as water weight gain or water retention. In many women it can come and go with the menstrual cycles each month and is really nothing to be alarmed about. Then there are other times when it could be a sign of something more serious and this happens with men as well as women.

When a female goes through her regular monthly cycle, water weight gain might show up a week or so prior to beginning her monthly flow. This can be largely due to the fluctuation in hormone levels. While this is going on there could be a rise in estrogen levels which can cause aldosterone. Aldosterone is a hormone that can cause the kidneys to retain water and it can commonly collect in the abdomen and breasts and cause swelling and tenderness. It is not unusual for some women to gain a few pounds during this time of the month.

There are other times when water weight gain is not a normal occurrence. Water retention can also cause swelling in the legs, feet, and fingers along with the breasts and abdomen. Pregnant women often experience swelling in these areas, but when it comes on suddenly and is abnormal swelling, they should see the doctor as soon as possible. The three things that cause water retention are kidneys, sodium, and hormones.

Here are a few signs that you could be retaining water:

1. If your socks leave a ring around your leg it can be caused by water.
2. When you can not remove your rings because your fingers are swollen.
3. When you have a problem getting your pants zipper up and down all of a sudden.
4. When you gain several pounds in just a day or so.

Having a diet that is high in sodium can cause water retention many times because salt will make you drink more fluids. Steroid medications can also cause puffiness because they can cause your kidneys to hold more sodium even if you do not over indulge in salt. Estrogen replacement hormones can cause water retention in post menopausal women. These might be things you should discuss with your doctor if they are uncomfortable or happen frequently.

You should always contact your doctor if your skin stays swelled for a long period of time or if you poke yourself with your finger and it leaves an indentation mark, it could be signaling a problem with some vital organ like the kidneys, thyroid, liver, or your heart. Do not mistake what you think is a simple common problem for something that could be much more serious.

Dealing with and treating menopause

Menopause can be a difficult phase to go through for any woman. Aside from the thought of dealing with physical and emotional changes, menopause has been a cause of unnecessary confusion and worry to those who are nearing this specific phase because they don’t know how to deal with other symptoms.

Characterized by the end of menstruation period, menopause affects every woman differently just like in various biological changes. Common menopausal symptoms include changes in period patterns, hot flushes, night sweats usually followed by a chill, altered sleeping patterns or troubled sleeps, vaginal atrophy or vaginal dryness, thinning, or itching, depression, mood swings and emotional fluctuations, confusion or inability to focus on things and carrying out tasks, and hair loss or growth on unlikely areas such as the face.

Menopause may also cause more serious health problems such as obesity, osteoporosis, and heart attack in the long run if not paid attention. Make sure that you know and are well aware of other menopausal symptoms so you can understand it fully. PROPOSED TREATMENT AND ALTERNATIVES If you are one of those who are nearing menopausal years, educating yourself on how you can mange the symptoms and the effects of menopause can help you start living your life in harmony.

Experts suggest that eating a healthy diet along with regular exercise during menopausal years is effective to cope up and treat these symptoms. But if you think you can no longer handle the symptoms of menopause, then it is now time to seek for professional help or treatment to help you out. Studies show that the need of women to seek for professional help varies on her need and emotional stability. Experts say that although many menopausal women do not really need special treatments for menopause, there are those who need it to overcome their difficulties. For those women who are thinking of getting a treatment, there are various menopausal treatments available today.

Since there is no single treatment that sits down well to all women, it is best if you consult your physician first before getting any of these treatments. By doing this, you can ask your doctor to discuss with you the treatments that can be perfect for you. The following are the most popular menopause available today.

1. Hormone therapy (HT) or Hormone Therapy Replacement (HRT) is one of the most popular menopausal treatments today. Undergoing through this treatment will reduce and relieve menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness, hot flushes and night sweats. Recent studies have warranted special caution in using HRT as they may be associated with an increase in heart problems. Experts agree that HT/HRT should be taken at the beginning of menopause because it can be an effective solution to bone loss or osteoporosis because it can increase bone density by around five percent in two years and can even reduces the risk of spinal fractures by 40 percent. A follow up after the menopausal years is as equally important to ensure the maximum effect of the therapy. Experts say that HT is not recommended for the prevention of heart or bone disease, stroke, and memory loss. And since there many kinds of HTs, the best way to know which one is the best for you is by consulting so he/she can suggest what’s most suitable type for you.

2. Bisphosphonates, on the other hand helps the renewal of bone cells that are constantly being broken down. This treatment prevents bone loss by hindering the breakdown process. Although this is effective in preventing osteoporosis, experts warns the interested patients to brace for side effects like gastrointestinal upsets. Today, the most commonly used bisphosphonates include Fosamax, Actonel and Didrocal that should be taken daily or weekly.

3. Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs) is also one of the popular treatments because it supplies the natural estrogen of the body. Patients must look out for the potential side effects of SERMs that may include hot flushes and vein coagulation. Other effective menopause treatment include Tibolone (Livial) therapy, parathyroid therapy, Vitamin D and calcium supplements and “Bioidentical” hormone therapy. Overall, nothing replaces good healthy living habits like exercising regularly, eating well and relaxing,

Menopause and Bone Loss

Menopause is one of the most challenging episodes in the life of a woman. The stage brings with it certain bodily changes such as the cessation of a female’s ability to conceive. Psychologically, menopause also poses quite a challenge for a woman as it will likely challenge preconceived views on her role that may cause great changes in mood and temperment as well as requiring greater effort to accept such changes as part of the natural process. Most women reach menopause when they are 50, although the average age for menopausal women is considerably earlier in most developing countries. There are plenty of challenges confronting a woman during her menopausal stage. However, none is perhaps greater or of more pressing concern than bone loss.

How Is Menopause Related to Bone Loss?

A woman who reaches menopause usually experiences osteopenia, running the risk of developing osteoporosis in time. Moreover, the onset of the decay of the bone leading to a weak structure causes body pain, predominantly in the back and joints.

To answer the question raised, bone loss comes about because of the body’s need to balance between blood production and bone creation. When still young, the body is able to produce blood as well as create bones. However, upon reaching the age of 30, the body begins to lose bones faster than it can replace them.

At the onset of menopause, bone loss dramatically becomes faster. Estrogen production stops after menopause. Once this happens, it means more bad news for the bones because the hormone is very vital in maintaining bone strength.

Are All Women at risk for Bone Loss?

Yes. All menopausal and post-menopausal women do experience bone loss. However, there are certain groups who stand out as having the greater incidence of the condition as well as showing a very rapid bone loss. These groups include the following:

* Those who are thin or have a small body frames. Body mass is directly proportional to body size: smaller women will experience bone loss in its most severe form.

* Those who are taking steroids. Steroids interfere with the body’s natural production of hormones. As such, when menopause comes, the body is further impeded with what little amount of hormone it can produce.

* Those who consume low levels of calcium and Vitamin D. These two nutrients are very vital in maintaining bone strength. As such, when the body does not get enough of them, bone loss during menopause is predictably more severe.

* Those with sedentary lifestyle. Lack of exercise also leads to atrophy of the bones. On the other hand, those who exercise regularly develop strong bones.

Are There Ways to Prevent or Minimize Bone Loss?

Taking in enough calcium by eating fresh fruits and vegetables allow the bone to become strong in their structure, making them withstand the decaying effects of menopause. A menopausal woman needs about 1,500 mg of calcium each day. On the other hand, calcium will not be maximized if taken without Vitamin D. Vitamin D is the nutrient that makes calcium absorption easier. The best sources for the vitamin are eggs, fish, and milk. Moreover, exercising regularly will keep the bones strong, thus preventing bone loss.

Treatment for Vaginal Dryness

Over half of the women between the ages of 40-59 suffer from vaginal dryness at some point. In fact, vaginal dryness is one of the most common symptoms of menopause.

This directly affects the female libido and causes painful intercourse. If this symptom is left untreated, many problems can follow. A lack of sexual satisfaction can add a lot of stress to any relationship. Fortunately, for most women, there are a number of simple and inexpensive natural remedies available.

Causes vaginal dryness

During menopause the level of estrogen declines, which causes thinning and dryness of the vaginal wall. This is the most common cause of vaginal dryness. A reduction in muscle tone and slower arousal time are also important factors.

Emotional issues from feeling depressed or under stress, which may be best helped by counseling. Unresolved problems in your relationships can also cause a lack of arousal and vaginal dryness. No herbal remedy can take the place of resolving matters with your loved ones, but the remedies mentioned here can certainly help with your physical symptoms.

Medical conditions, such as disease can be the underlying cause for vaginal dryness. If your dryness is severe or you do not respond to the simple natural remedies at all, check with your physician for medical advice.

What can be done about vaginal dryness?

As with most natural remedies, you need to be patient. Most of these remedies take a week or two to take effect. You will be happy you took the time!

Drink plenty of water! It is surprising how little clear water most people actually drink during the day. There may be a lot of coffee, tea, juice, soda, sports drinks, vitamin water, etc., consumed; but very little simple water. We should be drinking 8-10 cups a day. At first that seems like a lot, but you quickly get used to it. The water does many marvelous things. It cleanses the system of toxins, speeds your metabolism, and helps lubricate the body, including the vagina.

Look at what you eat. Be sure to include soy and flax seed. These are both good sources of Phytoestrogens. Eat foods that help your body produce the necessary hormones. Dieting can be a major cause of hormonal imbalance, and many women suffer from this.

Take a high excellence vitamin or mineral supplement. Even with proper nutrition from a healthy diet, it is advisable to supplement your nutrition with vitamins and minerals. This helps to ensure that nothing is missing.

Use an own lubricant. This might seem so obvious that it is not worth mentioning, but many women just do not give it a try. This is too bad, because there are many benefits from such a simple remedy. The lubricant can be used to moisten the vagina before intercourse, as well as before bed. For many women, this has made a huge difference in their female libido and enjoyment of intercourse.

Phytotherapy is highly recommended to treat vaginal dryness. By treating the dryness at a cellular level, the underlying cause is often addressed and helped. There are numerous herbal formulas available just for this purpose.

Author : Jenny Hobson
Source : http://www.articlebiz.com

What is Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a very common health problem that affects both men and women. There is a good chance that you have probably heard of it before. What is osteoporosis though? Here, you will find more information about this serious health condition.

Osteoporosis is a degenerative disease that causes the bones to thin and become brittle. Without proper treatment, the bones can break. If you have been diagnosed with this health condition, you may be wondering what causes osteoporosis.

There are many different factors that cause osteoporosis. Some of these include menopause, certain medical conditions, medications, hormones, and an unbalanced diet. Since it may not be known what causes osteoporosis for every individual, it is important to look out for symptoms of the condition.

Many people who develop osteoporosis may not even know they have the bone disease because symptoms often remain hidden. Some of the symptoms of osteoporosis are back pain, loss of height, bone fractures and bone loss seen through dental x-rays. If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to visit a doctor.

If you are wondering what is osteoporosis, you may be interested in how this condition is detected. A bone density is the most effective way to find out if you have osteoporosis or are at risk of developing the bone condition.

This test is recommended to most women over the age of fifty-five. If the results of your blood density score indicate that you have low bone density or osteoporosis, then it is important to schedule a medical evaluation in order to determine what can be done in regards to treatment.

For most people, osteoporosis can be prevented or treated. A well balanced diet, a regular exercise regimen and vitamin supplements are all great ways to prevent further damage from occurring. Your doctor may also probably recommend you to take a particular medication in order to prevent osteoporosis from further affecting your bone density levels.

Keep in mind that one of the main keys to treating or preventing this bone condition is determining what causes osteoporosis. This, of course, varies according to person. If you are still wondering what is osteoporosis, then it is important to talk to your doctor, who will be able to provide you with further information.

If you're worried that you may have osteoporosis get to your doctor, and remember, there are things you can do to help with the condition.


Author: Peter Clark
Source : http://www.articlesbase.com

Menopause and Women's Health

Couples going through menopause often have unique struggles when coping with the new changes and challenges it brings to them both as individuals, and as partners. It is an inner battle – mentally and physically – for not just women, but men as well. For women, it may be hard to get a male partner to understand and be able to empathise with her challenges. But both sexes go through a form of menopause, and this transition is disruptive and even scary, and a certain level of understanding and communication is required for any one to have a quality relationship at this stage of life.

Nancy Cetel talks about many of the changes couples experience in her book Double Menopause, and what often happens is that emotions, including past hurts, hopes, dreams, etc., that may have been buried or unexpressed in the past, can no longer hidden. It can’t be helped – the truth will not be held back any longer. For some women, that shows up in pent up aggression that is taken out on a male partner by pushing him away and/or making him unable to relate to you on a physical level. Men need to know that the loss of desire for sex may be caused from the hormonal changes, but there might also be an emotional element that needs to be dealt with.

It is advisable that men in menopause couples acquaint themselves with the effects of menopause, in themselves and their partners, in order to better understand the changes their relationship is going through. Men soon realize that hormonal imbalances are causing unwanted emotional symptoms in women that could lead to verbal spats every now and then. Men need to be aware that emotional changes are likely to occur and that they are not to blame for them but that their partner may require extra attention, love and outward expressions of caring more now than ever before.

Men need to understand that their sexual drives could also have changed as they experience a slower loss of testosterone. To keep sexual interest, partners may need to put more time and attention into the quality of their sex lives and ‘update’ themselves on what things turn them on at this stag of the game.

Men need to know that a decrease in estrogen in their lover’s bodies – can significantly alter how she thinks and feels about sex. In addition, vaginal discomfort and thinning of the lining of the vagina can make sex painful so it will not be enjoyable for either of them until they find a solution for this.

More than ever this is a critical time for couples to communicate more about the changes they are both experiencing. Christian Northrup talks about ‘reversing roles’ as couples go through this transition in her book the Wisdom of Menopause. Men often lose a lot of the aggression that once fueled their younger years and they are happier to stay home and engage in more nuturing activities, that they never paid attention to before, such as cooking. Women, on the other hand, may want to venture out into the world and pursue a long-thought about career. They become more aggressive and passionate about accomplishing things. In this way, the couple almost switch roles in the relationship.

Talking a lot, expressing ideas, and bonding with one another again becomes critical during this transition. Men need to know what is happening to their women on a day-to-day basis, and visa versa. Women want men to cheer them on as they undergo significant changes including dealing with physical discomfort, hormonal imbalances, and possibly venturing out into the career world for the first time!

Men need to know that sex isn’t going away totally. Explore sexual alternatives and realize that having less sex is not the end of the world! Experiment with vibrators, and oral sex, if you haven’t already as these are fine alternatives and to maintain a healthy sex life. Women love toys as much as guys do. Menopause might mean taking more time for foreplay for some women. Get into a habit of communicating your needs to each other and learn to enjoy the changes instead of fighting against them.

The most important thing is that husbands provide a social network for their menopausal wives to rely on. Realize that menopause is only a phase, albeit the end of the old and the beginning of a new one, and it’s possible to adjust to the changes by remaining aware. By staying informed of each other’s thoughts and feelings and becoming tolerant and understanding to the emotional pains women can go through, menopause couples can overcome most difficulties. And, who knows, you might like the new person you wake up to better! Think of it as another adventure.

Author : Cathy Taylor
Article Source : http://www.articlecity.com

Vaginal Infections ( vaginitis) - Part II

Causes of vaginitis

The cause depends on the type of vaginitis a woman has.

Bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis results from an overgrowth of one of several organisms normally present in the vagina.
Usually, “good” bacteria outnumber “bad” bacteria in the vagina. But if bad bacteria become too numerous, they upset the balance and bacterial vaginosis results.

This type of vaginitis can spread during sexual intercourse, but it also occurs in people who aren’t sexually active.
Women with new or multiple sex partners, as well as women who douche or use an intrauterine device (IUD) for birth control, have a higher risk of bacterial vaginosis.

Yeast infections

Yeast infections occur when certain internal or external factors change the normal environment of a woman’s vagina and trigger an overgrowth of a microscopic fungus – the most common being Candida albicans.

The Trichomonas vaginalisorganism – commonly transmitted by sexual intercourse.

A yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted disease. Besides causing most vaginal yeast infections, Candida albicans also causes infections in other moist areas of the body, such as in the mouth (thrush), skin folds and fingernail beds. The fungi can also cause diaper rash.

Factors that increase a woman’s risk of yeast infections include:

• Medications, such as antibiotics and steroids
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy, birth control pills and menopause
• Bubble baths, vaginal contraceptives, damp or tight fitting clothing and feminine hygiene products, such as sprays and deodorants, do not cause yeast infections, but they may increase a woman’s susceptibility to infection.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by a microscopic, one-celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis.

This organism spreads during sexual intercourse with someone who already has the infection.

The organism usually infects the urinary tract in men, but often causes no symptoms in men. Trichomoniasis typically infects the vagina in women.

Mixed infections

Vaginitis due to simultaneous infection with at least two pathogens (e.g. bacterial vaginosis in a woman with vulvovaginal candidiasis) is also highly prevalent and makes up approximately 30% of all cases.

Screening and diagnosis of vaginitis

To diagnose vaginitis, a doctor may review a woman’s history of vaginal infections or sexually transmitted diseases and conduct a pelvic examination.

The doctor may take a sample of a cervical or vaginal discharge for laboratory analysis. However, laboratory tests take time or may not be available in some cases.

In such cases, making an accurate diagnosis is not easy especially when it is a mixed infection.

Complications

Generally, vaginal infections do not cause serious complications. In pregnant women, however, both bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis have been associated with premature deliveries and low birth weight babies.

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) may also occur through an ascending infection into the pelvis via the cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes. Once PID sets in, it is difficult to eradicate and a woman’s ability to conceive may be compromised.

Treatment

The type of medication used for vaginitis treatment depends on which type a woman has:

Bacterial vaginosis – For this type of vaginitis, the doctor may prescribe tablets or vaginal gels or creams.

Yeast infections – Yeast infections usually are treated with an antifungal cream or suppository. Yeast infections may also be treated with an oral antifungal medication.

It is possible to mistake a yeast infection for other types of vaginitis or other conditions that need different treatment.
Using the wrong medicine may delay a proper diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment, and can lead to complications.
Trichomoniasis – A doctor may prescribe metronidazole tablets.

Atrophic vaginitis – Oestrogen, in the form of vaginal creams, tablets or rings, can effectively treat atrophic vaginitis. This treatment is available by prescription.

Mixed infection – Effective treatment depends on accurate diagnosis. Combination therapy may be the most viable option in such cases.

Prevention

Good hygiene may prevent some types of vaginitis from recurring and may relieve some symptoms:

·Avoid baths, hot tubs and whirlpool spas. A woman should take care to rinse soap from her outer genital area after a shower, and dry the area well to prevent irritation. Avoid scented and harsh soaps, such as those with deodorant or antibacterial action.

·Avoid irritants. These include scented tampons and pads.

·Wipe from front to back after using the toilet. Doing so avoids spreading faecal bacteria to the vagina.

Other things that may help prevent vaginitis include:

·Don’t douche. A woman’s vagina does not require cleansing other than normal bathing. Repetitive douching disrupts the normal organisms that live in the vagina and can actually increase the risk of vaginal infection. Douching will not clear up a vaginal infection.

·Use a male latex condom. This helps avoid infections spread by sexual contact.

·Wear cotton underwear and pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Do not wear underwear to bed. Yeast thrives in moist environments.

·Eat yoghurt that contains active lactobacillus cultures. This sometimes may help reduce recurrent vaginal yeast infections. Lactobacillus is a type of “good” bacteria that is common in the vagina.

Vaginal Infections ( vaginitis) - Part I

WHAT is vaginitis?

Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching and pain. The cause is usually a change in the normal balance of vaginal bacteria or an infection.

Vaginitis can also result from reduced oestrogen levels after menopause.
The most common types of vaginitis are:

Bacterial vaginosis – This type of vaginitis results from overgrowth of one of several organisms normally present in the vagina, upsetting the natural balance of vaginal bacteria.
Many pregnant women have bacterial vaginosis, though many are not aware of it.

Yeast infections – A naturally occurring fungus called Candida albicans usually causes this type of vaginitis. An estimated three out of four women will have a yeast infection in their lifetime.

Trichomoniasis – This type is caused by a parasite and is commonly transmitted by sexual intercourse.

Atrophic vaginitis – This type results from reduced oestrogen levels after menopause. The vaginal tissues become thinner and drier, which may lead to itching, burning or pain.

Vaginitis can also be due to mixed or simultaneous infections with at least two of the above mentioned pathogens.
Vaginitis is very common and most women have some kind of vaginitis at least once in their lifetime.


Signs and symptoms

• Vaginitis symptoms may include:
• Change in colour, odour or amount of discharge from the vagina
• Vaginal itching or irritation
• Pain during intercourse
• Painful urination
• Light vaginal bleeding
• Additional signs and symptoms, depending on the type of vaginitis, include:
• Bacterial vaginosis – A grayish-white, foul-smelling discharge. The odour, often described as fish-like, may be more obvious after sexual intercourse.
• Yeast infections – The main symptom is itching, but there may also be a white, thick discharge that resembles cottage cheese.
• Trichomoniasis – This infection can cause a greenish yellow, sometimes frothy discharge.