Menopause Symptom and Treatment Advice

If you are finding that the symptoms of menopause have you down, perhaps some of these treatment ideas can get you on your feet and back in the game. Below are some excellent hints, suggestions, and treatment suggestions to get things back to normal in no time.

1) Carefully research and weigh the benefits verses the risks of any treatment options available to you. This is your life and education is your best line of defense against harm. Be prepared to make educated, informed decisions about your health.
2) Make yourself aware of all the research available about the risks and the benefits of HRT and ask your doctor for guidance and advice of whether this is the best treatment option for you.
3) Whether you are using HRT as a short term or long-term treatment option, know the risks and be vigilant in protecting yourself against them.
4) Make your health and protecting it a priority.
5) Remember that all the symptoms of menopause, no matter how bothersome, are your body's natural reaction to the internal changes that are taking place.
6) Postmenopausal hormone therapy, which is designed to help you deal with the side effects that menopause brings after the fact, also carry with them risks and side effects. Among them are: bleeding, bloating, nausea, mood changes, headaches, and insomnia.
7) There are alternatives to HRT. The alternative treatments include: natural remedies, lifestyle changes, nutritional and dietary changes, supplements, and physical fitness. A healthy weight and well balanced diet are the best gifts you can give yourself during menopause.
8) Give serious consideration to alternative therapies and natural remedies rather than risking HRT if it isn't necessary.
9) Discuss all of your concerns, questions, hopes, fears, and preconceived notions with your doctor and make sure that he answers the questions you have to your satisfaction or find another doctor.
10) Sort through the pros and cons and select the treatment option that you feel will be best for you in the long run.

Knowing what to expect and talking with your doctor openly and frankly are very important when deciding on the proper treatment plan for you. Some suggested questions to ask your doctor include:

1) Why would you recommend Hormone therapy?
2) Which type of hormone therapy would you recommend for me?
3) What are the specific risks as they relate to me as a result of HRT?
4) Should I stop using HRT if I feel differently?
5) Are there alternative that can be safely used long-term?
6) How can I keep the symptoms from returning?

Keep in mind that as our bodies change, so do risk factors for certain health problems. You must protect yourself at this stage in life more than ever from the onset of osteoporosis and heart disease. The most important thing you can do for your peace of mind is to strike balance between the risks and the benefits that the treatment options provide and whether you feel the price is too high to pay.