Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Causes, Symptoms and PMDD

During the monthly menstruation cycle many women experience premenstrual syndrome also known as PMS. This most frequently occurs between one and two weeks before the start of the menstrual flow. PMS can be fairly mild or it can be incapacitating for some. When symptoms are extreme it is often called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome include swollen and tender breasts, irritability, cramping, back pain, irregularity and sleeplessness.Premenstrual syndrome may be related to fluctuations in hormones, but the exact cause is unknown. PMS is reported by women between the ages of 20 and 40 most frequently. In addition, having children may increase a woman’s risk of experiencing premenstrual syndrome. Another apparent risk factor is a history of depression. Some things may also add to problem as well. For example, eating fried foods, caffeine, refined sugar and drinking alcohol may compound the problem. Additionally, smoking may also intensify PMS.

 

Unless PMS symptoms are extreme, there may be lifestyle changes that can help reduce symptoms. For example, eating a healthy diet full of vitamin rich foods may be helpful. Exercise may also give a woman who suffers with PMS a boost. Stress reduction when possible may ease some of the tension and irritability associated with PMS. Another significant lifestyle change that is possible is getting plenty of rest. Sleeping 8 hours a night may be especially beneficial for women.

 

Over the counter PMS-period relief medicines are also readily available to take the edge off the pain and swelling some women have. For more severe cases of PMS or PMDD a doctor may recommend stronger medication or hormone treatments such as birth control pills. PMDD can significantly impede a woman’s ability to live a normal life, and it may be necessary to get medical intervention when symptoms are profound. PMS stops as soon as a woman goes through menopause and ceases to have a monthly menstruation cycle.

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Causes of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

PMS is fairly common and some estimates suggest that up to 70% of women have at some point in their life experienced it (Papalia, Olds, Feldman, 2001). Causes for premenstrual syndrome can be difficult to establish because women who report it may experience it differently and at different intensities and under different circumstances. In addition, there may be extenuating factors for some women, such as high stress levels, that can lead to conditions that mimic PMS symptoms such as anxiety, depression and trouble sleeping.

It is believed by many that hormones may be responsible for much of the problems that PMS is associated with. During the menstrual cycles hormones are released that regulate the reproductive cycle. Two of these hormones progesterone and estrogen seem to be related to the experience of PMS. Fluctuations in hormones or an imbalance may underlie PMS, but other things may contribute to the problem. For example, diet and lack of exercise have the potential to intensify symptoms.

Examples of foods associated with increased PMS symptoms are foods that are high fat, caffeinated or fried. Modifying the diet to include vitamin rich foods such as vegetables, fruits and lean proteins may ease symptoms considerable. In fact, so much so that dietary changes are frequently suggested by physicians treating PMS sufferers. Regular exercise also sees to reduce symptoms and their severity when they occur.

Diagnosing PMS is often dependent on the timing of the symptoms. PMS occurs 1-2 weeks before the menstrual period and usually cease once the period begins. A woman or her health care provider may track the occurrence of the onset of symptoms to make a final diagnosis of PMS. Causes of PMS are not clear cut however, it appears that hormonal fluctuations can trigger PMS symptoms and other factors can make them worse such as diet, stress and emotional problems.

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Treatment of PMS: Manage PMS with Excercise, Herbs & Vitamins

For women who are experiencing PMS there are several treatment options available. One of the simplest courses of treatment of PMS is to make lifestyle changes that appear to lesson symptoms. Diet may make a big difference for some women for who have PMS. For example, calcium, Vitamin E and magnesium have all been implicated in treatment of PMS. Including these and other nutritious foods into the diet is simple and inexpensive. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists also suggest that exercise, especially aerobic exercise, to help manage PMS. In addition, stress reducing exercise such as yoga and stretching may be helpful.PMS appears to be related to hormones and as a consequence it may also be a product of chemical changes in the brain. One treatment of PMS option involves the use of Serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) In addition; hormone replacement or suppression may also be useful. Oral contraceptives that suppress ovulation are often prescribed for women who have severe PMS symptoms. The problem with the use of pharmaceutical treatments is that there may be side effects whose benefits don’t outweigh the risks. As a result of concerns over side effects, some women opt to try alternative or herbal treatment of PMS. There are also over-the-counter medications designed for PMS as well as cramping that occurs during the menstrual period.

Several herbs and preparations have been used to manage PMS symptoms including evening primrose, borage, wild yam, dong quai and chaste tree fruit. Most of these supplements have not been tested in laboratory settings and some may also have side effects that could be problematic. In addition, some commonly herbs may be detrimental if a woman is pregnant or nursing. Acupuncture may be an option for women who are having PMS, and frequently Chinese herbal formulas are offered

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Diagnosis of PMS

Premenstrual syndrome can be problematic to diagnose because other conditions can also underlie some or many of the symptoms that are common in PMS. To overcome this difficulty, health care providers often recommend that women track their symptoms and their menstrual periods. PMS occurs 1-2 weeks before the onset of menstruation. This time in the cycle is referred to as the luteal phase and it is the last part of the cycle. In order to be diagnosed as PMS, symptoms need to follow this cycle with consistency. Further, a diagnosis of PMS is only made when symptoms present during this period interfere with a woman’s life.

Although there doesn’t appear to be a clear cut cause for PMS, it is believed that PMS is related to hormones. Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone are all implicated in the menstrual cycle and fluctuations in the levels of these hormones may contribute to PMS. Symptoms that are indicative of PMS include breast tenderness, abdominal swelling, diarrhea or constipation, aches and pains in the legs, joints or back. There may also be instances of moodiness, sleeplessness, food cravings and headaches.

During the luteal phrase of the menstrual cycle symptoms of other conditions can be worsened complicating a diagnosis of PMS. For example, women who are depressed may have more profound depression during this time. Another example of a condition that is negatively influenced by the influx of hormones after ovulation is chronic fatigue syndrome. This all underscores the importance of tracking symptoms throughout the cycle and to do so for at least three months. Symptoms of chronic conditions may be more intense before a period, but they will be present all month long while PMS symptoms end during menses. Conditions such as cramping and pain that lasts beyond the onset of bleeding may be a sign of other problems.

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Dysmenorrhea: Painful Cramping during Menstrual Periods

Sometimes a woman will experience painful cramping while she is having her menstrual period. When the cramping and pain are intense and regular, she may be suffering from dysmenorrhea. This painful condition is classified as being either primary or secondary dysmenorrhea. The primary type begins when the woman first begins menstruating and will likely continue throughout her life. Secondary dysmenorrhea frequently begins later in life when an underlying condition such as endometriosis occurs that aggravates the condition.

Primary dysmenorrhea may be caused by a hormonal or chemical imbalance. There may also be other factors such as structural problems internally. Secondary dysmenorrhea may be caused by an assortment of conditions. For example, uterine fibroids and Pelvic inflammatory disease are two conditions that may lead to dysmenorrhea.

Cramping and pain are frequently accompanied by other symptoms during the menstrual cycle for women who have dysmenorrhea. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea, back pain, pain radiating down legs and headaches. Treatment options for women who are experience dysmenorrhea will vary from woman to woman. For example, some may respond to hormone therapy such as taking progesterone. A doctor may also recommend taking birth control pills to inhibit ovulation. Some women find relief using over-the-counter products that reduce inflammation and ease pain such as products containing NSAIDs. In extreme cases, some women have hysterectomies or surgical interventions to address dysmenorrhea.

Women who have dysmenorrhea should consult with a health care provider to find a safe, effective means of managing this condition. Making dietary changes and getting regular exercise may help lesson some of the symptoms of this painful disorder. For instance, avoiding caffeine, fat and processed foods may help. Supplemental vitamins can help a woman meet her nutritional needs at this time. In addition, stress may compound the problem so finding ways to manage stress may also be beneficial.

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Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome

Symptoms of Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can make a woman’s life difficult. In some cases PMS can interfere with normal activities and in the process create problems on the job, at home, and in interpersonal relationships. For instance, PMS sufferers often report trouble sleeping and frequently moodiness, which can affect judgment, stress levels and performance on tasks. Other physical problems may also be present as well for example, bloating and an upset stomach as common during this time in a woman’s cycle. Constipation or diarrhea may also be present. These problems may be related to changes in appetite, eating problems and food cravings that many woman with PMS report.

PMS is common, but not all women experience it. In addition, PMS symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe. Generally PMS occurs one two weeks before the onset of the menstrual period. PMS may also be more common for women who are over 30. Historically PMS has been blamed by some on emotional problems, but research has helped dispel that notion and now underlying biological and chemical factors have been explored. For instance, it is believed that variations in the levels of estrogen and progesterone may underlie some of the symptoms. An example of one symptom that is strongly associated with hormones is acne. Breast tenderness and swelling may also suggest hormones are at play.

Premenstrual syndrome symptoms also include aches and pains that may seem unrelated to the menstrual cycle. Joint pains and muscle aches are common with PMS. In addition women who have PMS may have back aches or have more frequent headaches. Fortunately, all of these PMS symptoms ease up once the menstrual period begins. There may also be some things that women can do to reduce the intensity of the symptoms. For example, eating a healthy diet and reducing the intake of caffeine, fried foods and sugar may help

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Benefits of Hormone Replacement, relief from menopausal symptoms

Hormone replacement is therapeutic and useful for a wide assortment of menopausal symptoms. For example, in menopausal women, it helps regulate the flow of estrogen and in the process decreases the occurrence of hot flashes and night sweats. There are many other benefits of hormone replacement as well. However, there is a significant body of evidence that suggests hormone replacement therapy can be risky and shouldn’t be used long term (Woman’s Health Initiative). The benefits of hormone replacement include protection from bone loss, colorectal cancer, and from heart disease.

Prolonged use of hormones may increase the risk of heart disease. In addition, hormone replacement may make sexual relationships better and more satisfying for menopausal women because it combats vaginal dryness and discomfort frequently experienced by menopausal women. As hormones produced in the ovaries decline after menopause, changes in the vagina as a result can make intercourse uncomfortable. Estrogen provides benefits of hormone replacement by keeping the vagina more elastic and reduces thinning and drying of the tissue.There are changes in the urinary track as well as a result of the loss of naturally occurring hormones. As a result of those changes many women experience problems of leakage and sometimes incontinence. The benefits of hormone replacement in this case are that the urinary tract is kept subtle and women have fewer problems as a result. While there is some important ways that hormone replacement therapy eases menopause, women who are considering it should be mindful of the risks. During the landmark 2002 study by the Woman’s Health Initiative it was discovered that women on hormone replacement therapy were more likely to exhibit blood clots, stroke, heart disease and breast cancer. There are some alternative treatments that provide a measure of relief for menopausal symptoms such as the use of biological identical hormones, natural phytoestrogens such as soy, and herbal formulas when the benefits of hormone replacement are desired without the risks.

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Natural Hormone Replacement Therapy: DHEA, Testosterone

Natural hormones are often the preferred many of taking hormones. With the same chemical structure as the bodies own hormones they are frequently referred to as bio identical. Natural hormones come from a wide selection of sources including soy and yam. Natural hormone replacement is used for symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats, osteoporosis prevention, vaginal dryness and thinning as well as a host of other conditions.

Estradiol, pregnenolone, estriol and testosterone are some of the hormones that are administered for menopausal women. Natural hormones can be given in the same manners that synthetic hormones are given. There are gels, creams, capsules, patches and pellets. Doses and a time schedule for taking natural hormone replacement therapy will vary from woman to woman and will best be determined by a the woman and her physician.

Natural hormone replacement may provide the same or better results as synthetics. In addition, they may be easier on some women and may have fewer side effects. For example, natural HRT may be just as effective for osteoporosis. Other natural hormones include DHEA and testosterone that are used to treat sexual dysfunction that frequently accompanies perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. In conjunction with estrogen replacement, these hormones increase libido, and help maintain the elasticity of the vagina and reduce the likelihood of painful intercourse.

Saliva tests can help determine if a woman needs hormone therapy at all. Many women have plenty of hormones in their bodies without having to resort to hormone therapy. In addition, bioidentical hormones may be a better, safer alternative that synthetics that offer come from other sepsis altogether. For example, mare hormones are often synthesized for humans. Finding a physician that is familiar with bioidentical hormones and the benefits and risks of using them may be the first step in finding out if they are appropriate for the woman seeking relief from menopausal symptoms.

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Ways of Taking HRT: Hormone replacement with pills, injections, patches or creams

Hormone replacement therapy provides relief from many symptoms associated with menopause. There are many ways that HRT can be administered.

For example, estrogen and progestogen can be taken in pills, patches, injections and creams. They can also be taken on a variety of schedules. Continuous therapy is given daily either via a pill or a patch can be used for two days a week for instance.

In addition, HRT can be offered on a cycle where hormones are given for a period of time and then withheld for a specific time. Oral hormones taken in a pill form are convenient. There are not as effective for some woman as intramuscular injects.

One of the problems with this way of taking HRT is that the pill may be digested before enough of the hormone can be released into the system. Intramuscular injects is another means of taking hormones.

Intramuscular injections are given every few weeks and may cause hormone fluctuations as the hormones are absorbed into the system.

Some women like the convenience of using transdermal patches as a way to take HRT. Patches are worn continuous and supply a steady stream of hormones. Some women have reported difficulty with rashes while using patches.

Another popular way to take hormones is by using vaginal hormone creams. These creams are applied directly onto the vagina. It is an effective way to help reduce vagina symptoms of menopause such as dryness and thinning on the vaginal wall. Progestins are occasionally given via the use of suppositories.

Subcutaneous pellets are a way of taking HRT whereby pellets are inserted under the skin. Though this means of taking HRT is convenient, there may be problems associated with its use. For instance, if the dosage is wrong or the pellet has to be removed it requires surgery. In addition, side effects such as weight gain have been reported.

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Theories of Aging: Why and How we age

There are many theories on aging. For example the evolutionary theory of aging supposes that genes are inherited that limit the lifespan amongst other things. Further, the theory suggests that some genes that may be beneficial in youth may have negative consequences later in life. This theory suggests that aging is a byproduct of Darwin’s evolutional theory of natural selection. Unlike biology based theories that view aging as a consequence of chemical processes like oxidative stress and hormone losses.

One theory of aging called the theory of programmed death offers the idea that soma cells are predetermined to only split so many times. This idea postulated by Hayflick (1980) and others suggests that once that number has been reached the cell dies. It goes on to explain that in the early stages of cell division (infancy and childhood) the cell divides rapidly and as the individual ages cell division slows down and eventually quits altogether.

Biological based theories of aging include the idea that free radicals cause the body to deteriorate and as a result signs of aging appear. Free radicals can cause accumulated damage to cells and organs that leads to inflammation and further destruction.

Another theory suggests that it is accumulated waste matter that forces aging on people. Included in this body of biological rather than evolutionary theories of aging is the metabolism theory of aging.

There is another theory of aging that metabolism is responsible for the aging process. Delayed or slower metabolism equates to longer life. The energy consumption hypothesis says that burning calories increases damage to cells and results in more rapid aging. In line with this thinking is a theory that suggests severely restricting calorie intake can prolong life and slow down the progression of age related symptoms. Studies with lab animals supports this idea however, few if any longitudal studies have been done with humans and the lab animals received exacting diets high in nutrients. This strategy may be difficult to replicate with humans.

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All About Aging, difficulties brought by aging

The average age span is about 77 years for men and 80 for women. This extended lifespan combined with people’s desire to have active senior years has spurned interest to learn all about aging. Aging begins at the moment of birth though signs and symptoms of aging that are considered problematic don’t become apparent until people reach their 30’s and 40’s. By the time some people are 30 they begin to see outward signs of the aging process such as wrinkling. During the 30’s and 40’s people may be at their best cognitively. It isn’t until the late 50’s that some people begin to have difficulties with some cognitive tasks. Even then, changes are hardly noticeable.

Sensory changes start to show up gradually as well. Hearing, smell, taste and vision all begin to show slight declines as people age. However, because people all experience aging differently it’s difficult to offer a time schedule that directs all about aging with precision. Nearly 1/3 of adults have some hearing loss by the time they are 60. In particular, older adults may have trouble detecting high-pitched sounds. They may also have more difficulty discerning conversation in a room with a lot of background music.

By the time adults reach 30-40 they may begin to experience problems with their vision. Though not all people will experience diminished vision, many people report that they have trouble reading and that they need to hold books and newspaper farther away from their bodies. Peripheral vision may also be compromised and eyes may need more time to adjust to changes in lighting.

As people age they are more vulnerable to broken bones because bones may become thinner. Women who are menopausal may be especially vulnerable. Joints and ligaments begin to stiffen as we age because there is a loss of elasticity. In addition, elderly people become more susceptible to tooth loss, heart disease and cancers. While aging is inevitable, the good news is that research all about aging has learned that lifestyle factors like diet and exercise and good medical care can extend the average life span and in the process improve the quality of life as well.

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Menstruation Problems: Abnormal bleeding, scanty bleeding, clots, fibroids, delayed menses

For most women the menstrual cycle begins in puberty and can last for decades into their 50’s. The period of bleeding in the cycle is called menstruation and for some women there may be menstruation problems.

One example of the kinds of difficulties some women face is amenorrhea. Amenorrhea is the delayed onset of menstruation in young girls who haven’t started their periods by 16. In older women amenorrhea occurs when a woman misses her periods for three months or more. There may be one or several reasons for the occurrence of amenorrhea including pregnancy, hormone imbalances, and illness, of structural problems in the reproductive system.

Dysmenorrhea is another potential menstruation problem. This condition is characterized by severe cramping and pain during menstruation. Sometimes an excess of prostaglandin is implicated in severe periods. There may also be underlying problems such as endometriosis or fibroids. Many women find a measure of relief from severe periods using over the counter medications. Some woman use herbs and herbal formulas to help such as black cohosh and squaw vine. Frequently the use of a heating pad provides some relief.Sometimes dysmenorrhea is accompanied by abnormal uterine bleeding. This can include heavy bleeding and abnormally long periods. In addition women may have more frequent periods. Hormones are often the reason women have this particular problem. Fibroids, cancer or polyps are also a possibility when abnormal bleeding occurs.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is another menstruation problem that plagues many women. It can manifest in painful breasts, cramping, mood swings and bloating. Like other menstruation difficulties, PMS may be related to fluctuations in hormones. There is some evidence that diet may contribute to the problem. For example, fried foods, caffeine and sugar all seem to add to PMS symptoms. Many women will experience the occasional menstruation problem, however sever or prolonged symptoms may indicate the presence of a serious condition.

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Menstruation Period : Preparing body for Conception and pregnancy

Menstruation is a natural cycle that almost all women undergo. The purpose of this cycle is to prepare a woman’s body for conception, pregnancy and the delivery of children. The cycle begins on the first day of the menstrual period and goes all the way through till the first day of the next period. This cycle generally take 28-31 days though it may vary somewhat for individual women.

The ovaries produce hormones that prepare the uterus for pregnancy. In addition, the ovaries ripen and release an egg(s) monthly that will travel down the fallopian tubes during ovulation. While this is going on the uterine lining is becoming thicker. This endometrial material will be shed off if conception doesn’t occur. When this happens the menstrual period will commence.

Menstrual periods last generally between 3 and 5 days. They begin, as a rule, in puberty at the average age of 12. Some girls begin their menstrual period as early as 8 and some much later. However, if the onset of the menstrual period doesn’t begin until 16 or later that is called amenorrhea and may be a sign of problems.

Many women occasionally experience cramping, bloating and moodiness in conjunction with the menstrual bleeding. If it isn’t severe, a heating pad can provide relief.

Dysmenorrhea is a condition characterized by painful cramping during the menstrual period that can be severe. This may be a sign of hormone imbalance, fibroids or endometriosis and a doctor should be consulted.

Sometimes abnormal bleeding can occur that is heavy or contains clotting. This may also indicate a problem. In addition, some women have experienced frequent periods that may be a symptom of additional conditions. Menstrual periods will continue throughout a woman’s life until she is well into middle age. Sometimes this life cycle of menstruation periods is shortened through a hysterectomy or other circumstance.

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Menstruation Pads: Sanitary napkins and Tampons

Menstruation pads are used to protect a woman’s clothing during the menstrual period. Pads come is a wide selection of sizes and absorbencies as well. Menstruation pads are also called sanitary napkins.

They are sized according to the size of the woman, some are longer, some narrower. They are also classified according to rate of flow from the period. For example, there are thin pads for light days and maxi-pads for heavier days. They usually have an adhesive backing that secures them to the underwear. The top is made from absorbent fiber usually wood cellulose. In addition there may be a plastic padding across the bottom to help reduce leaks.In addition to varying absorbencies and sizes there are other differences between pads as well. Some menstruation pads have flaps on the sides called wings. These wings fit around the crotch of the underwear to better secure the pad. In addition some are shaped so they fit more comfortably across the crotch. Others are rectangular and fairly simple and still others are thinner and tapered for women who wear thongs.Many sanitary napkins are also scented or have a deodorant impregnated in the material. For some women with sensitive skin or allergies, this may be a problem.

Women may have to change their pads every 2-4 hours to reduce the risk of leaks and also to help eliminate any odor. There are also natural pads available that are made from cotton. Some of these are designed to be washed and reused. These are for women who are sensitive or who are concerned about adding to land fills. Another type of pad that is frequently used is called tampons. They are inserted into the vagina by using a tube or by being pushed in with a finger. Some women prefer using tampons because they don’t show through cloths. They can leak however and should be changes frequently.

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Estrogen Replacement Therapy for menopausal and post menopausal women

Women who are menopausal or post menopausal have a rapid decline in the production and presence of estrogen in their bodies. This can lead to a host of problems that are associated with the change of life. While menopause isn’t complete until there have been 12 consecutive months without a period, loss of estrogen can begin causes problems much sooner.

In some cases where a woman has had a hysterectomy that includes the removal of her ovaries menopause will be more abrupt. Estrogen replacement therapy has been used with a fair measure of success to combat signs and symptoms that are problematic for women who are experiencing menopausal related symptoms.  Some of the symptoms associated with the loss of estrogen include; night sweats, hot flashes, loss of bone mass and vaginal and urinary changes. Estrogen replacement therapy helps reduce the severity of these problems. It is the fluctuation of estrogen that leads to hot flashes for example, estrogen replacement therapy levels the flux of estrogen and the result is a decline in hot flashes and related night sweats. Further, estrogen replacement therapy offers some protection from bone loss which is common in menopausal women. Osteoporosis greatly increases the risk of fracture to hips and other bones, so estrogen replacement can be a good way to protect menopausal women from breaks.

There are some serious concerns over estrogen replacement therapy however. For instance, women who have taken estrogen for five years or longer may have a statistically significant increased risk of breast cancer. Another important finding is that women who use estrogen replacement therapy for long periods of time may have an increased risk of heart disease such as heart attacks. This is why estrogen replacement therapy has become so controversial. Women who are considering its use will need to weigh benefits verses risks before beginning estrogen replacement therapy.

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Menopause Treatment and Relief, natural treatment of menopause

Menopause treatment and relief comes in many forms.

• For instance, hormone replacement therapy offers a course of treatment that has yielded positive results for menopausal women.
• In addition, there are natural treatments such as the use of herbs like black cohosh that apparently reduces the severity of menopausal women. Some of these symptoms like hot flashes, bone loss, loss of libido and vaginal dryness make menopause a time of great discomfort for many women.
• The loss of naturally produced estrogen, progesterone and testosterone lead to a wide assortment of menopausal symptoms. For instance, menopausal women often report sexual difficulties like the loss of libido and vaginal dryness.
• There are also physical symptoms that may have long term consequences such as thinning bones (osteoporosis).

The use of menopause treatment and relief products can make a big difference for women who are faced with these difficulties. Hormone replacement therapy, natural hormone replacement therapy and natural products all have shown some promise of relief.

Hormone replacement especially artificial hormones may have some significant risks. Studies by The Woman’s Health Initiative for example, indicated that hormone replacement therapy can lead to increased risk of heart disease and some forms of cancer. Use of natural hormones such as DHEA is also promising as menopause treatment and relief and appears to be safer though human studies are limited.

Some women have chosen to use natural herbs and formulations as a means of avoiding the risks of hormone replacement therapy. For instance, black cohosh is reputed to minimize hot flashes, and night sweats. Saint John’s wort is another herb that has been used to curb some of the emotional upset frequently experienced by menopause. Other natural treatments like the inclusion of soy products into the diet may yield some benefits. The problem with some natural menopause treatment and relief products is that there may be reactions to other drugs. Some of these herbs are quite potent. In addition, there have been few human studies on the efficacy of these products.

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DHEA, Anti-Aging hormone replacement therapy

There are a plethora of hormone treatments and anti-aging regiments on the market, but perhaps one of the most promising hormone replacement therapies is the use of DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) and anti-aging hormone replacement.

Researchers at the National Institute of Health, National Institute of Aging and other major research facilities are aggressively looking at this hormone for all the benefits that it may hold. DHEA is important to the development and health of every system in the body. It is so important in fact, that it is the most abundant hormone in the body. Though DHEA is present throughout life, the amount of it present declines significantly as people age.

DHEA and anti-aging seem like a natural match. People who use DHEA often report a feeling of well-being and heath. It has been suggested that DHEA may combat cancer, cardiovascular disease, and immunological deficiencies. While research on these qualities is slim at this point there is evidence that the lack of DHEA may be a marker in some disease and conditions. Further, research on animals suggests that it extends the life and health of laboratory animals. It has been hypothesized that DHEA and anti-aging studies may find links between the use of DHEA and the lessoning of many age related conditions.

• For example, DHEA may help treat autoimmune deficiencies, chronic fatigue, osteoporosis and menopausal symptoms to name a few.
• Naturally occurring DHEA helps to regulate hormone production including sex hormones. The use of DHEA may be especially beneficial for menopausal women because of this effect.
• Hormones can increase libido, keep the vagina subtle and reduce health risks associated with the loss of estrogen and progesterone including weakening bones and incidence of cardiovascular disease.
• While the verdict is still out on the benefits of supplementing DHEA in humans, most indicators suggest DHEA and anti-aging treatments may yield huge benefits.

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HGH : Human Growth Hormone for Anti-aging

In recent years interest in human growth hormone as a means to stave off the signs and symptoms of aging has exploded. Currently HGH is prescribed to treat a host of conditions related to a deficiency of the hormone in children and adults. For example, it is often prescribed for children who are short of statue. In adults with deficiencies it has been used to increase bone and muscle mass, to increase endurance and strengthen the heart.

It has been suggested by some that HGH and anti-aging are a natural match. Studies on the use of HGH for use on an aging population have been limited. However, there is some indication that it holds promise as a means of reducing signs and symptoms associated with normal aging. HGH is present in most people throughout their lifespan. It is as its name implies directly related to the growth and development of tissues and systems in the body. It is available by prescription and is given as an injection. There is also a proliferation of so called HGH pills as well, though it may be hard to tell how much HGH is actually contained in the pills being hawed on the internet and other questionable sources. HGH and anti-aging has spurned interest in its therapeutic value, but caution appears prudent. While adults who are given artificial HGH in controlled situations may see increased muscle and bone mass as well as improved endurance, HGH is not without side effects and should be closely monitored should an individual chose to use it.

HGH use may result in arthritis-like symptoms. In addition, people who are using HGH have reported carpel tunnel, and abnormal bone growth. Further, the use of HGH may lead to high blood pressure as well. These symptoms and others are enough to give pause when considering HGH and anti-aging. Other anti-aging strategies may be as effective without the same probability of side effects such as regular exercise and a healthy diet.

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Anti-Aging Skin Care : Skin products to keep skin young

Anti-aging skin care has become a huge industry. With scores of products on the markets it can be difficult to find the right products for individual needs. There are a few products that have shown tremendous potential and that have weathered the test of time.

• For instance, products that stimulate the production of elastin seem to show promise for anti-aging skin care. Elastin is a skin protein found in connective tissue. It is partially responsible for tissues being able to retain their shape and elasticity. Products such as Retin A that contain Retinoic acid may help the body’s balance of elastin.
• Another area of study in anti-aging skin care is the use of topical hormone to help reduce the signs of aging. Estrogen creams have been shown in studies to offer some benefit to menopausal and post menopausal women. Estrogen replacement therapy in the form of topical skin treatments does show improvement in the overall appearance of aging skin, but there are concerns over the safety of supplementing estrogen. For instance, estrogen therapy has been implicated in increased risk of breast cancer.
• Progesterone another naturally occurring hormone may offer many of the benefits of anti-aging skin care without as many risks. A British study conducted on progesterone use indicated that progesterone increases skin firmness and reduces wrinkles.
• Products using beta-glucan are also being examined for the potential uses as anti-aging skin care. Beta-glucans come from cereals such as oat. Beta-glucans are supposed to help wrinkling and are reputed to have healing properties. It has been suggested that beta-glucans stimulate the production of collagen.
• Creams and lotions containing antioxidants such as resveratol may offer some anti-aging skin care properties. Antioxidants reduce inflammation and in the process protect and in theory nourish skin.
• Some evidence suggests that some of the best methods of anti-aging skin care are proper nutrition, hydration and exercise.

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Anti-Aging Medicines to stay young

People have long sought to resist the aging process. Very few people believe that there is a possibility of eternal youth, but many believe that aging can be slowed down and that life and beauty can both be extended. Anti-aging medicine is readily available to help people accomplish those goals. These anti-aging formulations cull the best in anti-aging science and many use traditional herbs as well.

Examples, of these anti-aging medications include; Omega-3 Fatty acids, Saw Pimento, Shark Cartilage, soy proteins, chondroitin sulfate, Coenzyme Q10 and Evening Prime Rose.

• Omega-3 fatty acid reportedly offers heart protection, lowers blood pressure, fights inflammation and in the process relieves arthritis symptoms. However, there are reports that Omega-3 Fatty acids may increase bleeding and may contribute to bloating.
• Saw Pimento is a traditionally used herb that is an anti-aging medicine reputed to increase lagging libido, prevent hair loss in men, helps low thyroid and may sooth an irritated bladder. On the down side of this saw pimento may cause headaches, nausea and diarrhea to name a few side effects.
• Shark cartilage is used as an anti-aging medicine that supposedly treats cancer, and helps to ease ligaments and joints that are inflamed due to arthritis. It also may cause toxicity, nausea and fatigue.
• Soy products have long been recommended to menopausal women as a mean of supplementing hormones. It contains hormone like substances called phytoestrogens that in some ways mimic natural hormones.
• Another commonly used anti-aging medicine is chondroitin. Chondroitin sulfate is used to reduce inflammation as well with relatively low incidence of side effects such as stomach irritation and bloating.
• Coenzyme Q10 may slow down the aging process and increase metabolism. Further it is used to treat high blood pressure and help build immunity.
• Finally, evening primrose is another herbal anti-aging medicine that is used to treat cardiovascular disease, reduce hot flashes, therapeutic for diseases of the skin and aid in weight loss.

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