Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a medical treatment option for managing symptoms associated with age- or medical-related hormonal changes, particularly during menopause. Many individuals explore HRT to address their discomfort, improve their quality of life, and support their overall well-being. However, it is important to keep in mind that this treatment has both advantages and drawbacks, which you should consider before undergoing it.
Hormone replacement therapy can provide significant relief from menopausal symptoms. These symptoms include:
Menopausal symptoms can disrupt a person's sleep, daily routines, and overall quality of life. HRT can help stabilize hormonal levels in the body and reduce the severity and frequency of these changes.
During hormonal transitions in menopause, some individuals experience mood swings, irritability, or difficulty concentrating. HRT stabilizes hormone levels, which can help regulate mood and support cognitive function. This improvement can contribute to better mental clarity and emotional balance in everyday life.
When the individual begins HRT before menopause (perimenopause), it can also help protect their brain from Alzheimer's disease. HRT can prevent the brain from using lipids (fats) in the white matter as fuel instead of glucose.
As people get older and their oestrogen levels decline, it can lead to reduced bone density. This increases the risk of bone-related health issues like osteoporosis, which thins bones and makes individuals more likely to experience fractures. Fortunately, HRT can help slow bone loss and reduce the likelihood of osteoporosis. A 2022 study published in Osteoporosis International found that HRT significantly lowered the risk of fractures in more than 25,000 postmenopausal women aged 50 to 79. It is particularly valuable for those who stop menstruating before the age of 45 or are at risk of bone-related health issues due to genetics or undergoing procedures like a hysterectomy.
Despite its benefits, hormone replacement therapy carries potential risks. While these events are rare, the patient may be at increased risk for breast cancer, blood clots, and stroke depending on the type of therapy and their medical history. For example, transdermal estrogen patches present a lower risk of stroke and blood clots than oral tablet estrogen.
Meanwhile, patients who still have a uterus should use a combination of estrogen and progesterone to prevent uterine cancer. However, according to the American Cancer Society, this combination can also raise the risk of breast cancer.
Some individuals may also experience side effects of HRT, particularly when they first begin their treatment plan. These side effects include bloating, tender breast tissue, headaches, nausea and indigestion, irregular vaginal bleeding, and skin irritation. These effects typically resolve over time, but they can still affect the individual's comfort as their body adjusts to HRT.
Hormone replacement therapy is not recommended for people with a history of certain cancers, liver disease, or blood clots. In this case, the medical provider may recommend other alternative treatment options. These risk factors can limit the patient's access to hormone therapy.
Hormone replacement therapy offers many benefits. However, like other medical treatments, it also presents possible risks and may not be appropriate for everyone. Would you like to learn more about HRT options at Encompass Care? Call our North Las Vegas office today to speak with our team or schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://encompasscarelv.com or call Encompass Care at (702) 514-4295 for an appointment in our North Las Vegas office.
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