You’re approaching that middle age groove, that time in life when things begin to slow down. Your metabolism is creeping along, making you gain weight when you eat nothing but salads. Your energy levels have dropped so much you feel sluggish all the time. Sleep is hard to come by. Your stamina isn’t what it used to be. You can’t keep up with your old workout routine. You’re wondering if hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, can recharge your body, but have your doubts. Can you trust it?
How Long has HRT Hormone Therapy Been Around?
Hormone replacement therapy first hit the scene in the 1960’s. In the beginning, estrogen replacement therapy was introduced. However, there were concerns associated with this type of therapy. Women who received estrogen replacement therapy were found to be at a higher risk for endometrial cancer. Therapies continued to evolve, reducing the level of estrogen used. Progesterone replacement therapy was included. Popularity grew for HRT in the 90’s. It is a common solution today for men and women experiencing a hormonal imbalance. Women facing menopause can benefit in several ways, including:
- A reduced risk of heart attack
- The ability to maintain a healthy weight
- Improved quality of sleep
- A reduction in the number of hot flashes and night sweats
- An improved mental state
- An increase in strength
- Improved bone health
Men also enjoy many benefits from hormone replacement therapy. Improved sex drive, weight maintenance, improved emotional well-being, and an increase in muscle mass are only some of the advantages of HRT.
What is the Downside of Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Hormone replacement therapy may have drawbacks for some individuals. Women may have a higher risk of breast cancer, heart attack, and stroke after prolonged hormone replacement treatments. The best way to reduce risks associated with HRT for women is to work closely with a hormone specialist. When estrogen doses are maintained at low levels and treatment is confined to five years or less, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages of treatment. Women are advised to consider HRT while in their 50’s. After the age of 60, risks increase. Men may experience unwanted side effects from treatment, such as enlarged breasts, higher cholesterol levels, and infertility. Proper dosages and limiting the duration of treatment could be key in giving men the best outcome with hormone replacement therapy.
Is Hormone Replacement Therapy Right for You?
If you feel like you are really dragging and your body is no longer your own, it’s time to look for answers. You should be able to feel your best. You can begin by taking matters into your own hands. Embrace healthy eating habits. As you get older, you may need to change up your diet with the addition of fresh produce, healthy fats, and lean protein. Smaller portions or several small meals could make a difference. Make sure you get physical activity on a daily basis, including strength training. Try supplements that will boost energy levels. Melatonin could help you to sleep. Yoga, meditation, and trips to the spa could relieve stress. If all of your efforts fail to give you a comeback, turn to a hormone therapy specialist to discuss hormone replacement as a potential solution for you.
Begin with a Consultation for HRT Hormone Therapy
Sit down with a doctor who focuses on hormone replacement to find out if this type of treatment could benefit you. This is your opportunity to open up about your symptoms, how long you have been experiencing them, any changes in your lifestyle, and how you have tried to address your symptoms. Expect a physical examination. You will also have blood tests to find out what is happening with your hormone levels. This will also provide your doctor with information concerning any other health concerns you may have. If your tests prove you have a deficiency in hormone levels, your doctor can share treatment options with you, explain the benefits, and answer your questions.
It’s Time to Find Answers
Don’t waste anymore time on do-it-yourself remedies. Hormone replacement therapy could change your life with a customized treatment plan. It isn’t one-size-fits-all. A hormone specialist can match your therapy with your needs. Call us at (205) 352-9141 to find out how the staff at Revive Therapy and Wellness can help you to feel like yourself again.