Menopause Transition: Don't Miss This Important Preventative Health Opportunity

Sometime between ages 45 and 55, for many women, gynecologic and related health issues begin to emerge. Menstrual cycles now seem different, mood swings and memory lapses appear, and sleep becomes more chaotic, coupled with warm flushes. And the weight! Why at the mid-section? These irritating acknowledgments belie a more ominous change. During this menopause transition, loosely referred to as “perimenopause,” events are unfolding that have an impact on a woman’s cardiovascular risk.

SPICE, PICKLES FOR LEG CRAMPS... Can it be that simple?

Most people have experienced muscle cramps, usually in the form of leg cramps. Surveys suggest that one‐third of adults over 60 years old and half of those over 80 experience muscle cramps, some reporting symptoms for ten years or longer. They strike without warning, often in the night, and usually, slowly respond as one keeps the extremity involved on stretch until the cramps  subside. Extrapolating from the experiences of athletes who get exercise‐induced cramps and people with peripheral vascular disease who get activity‐related cramps, one would assume that  muscle cramps must represent muscle fatigue, electrolyte imbalance, or tissue ischemia. Yet,  many muscle cramps occur temporally distant from any physical exertion and often when  hydration is not an issue. And for many athletes, hydration or electrolyte solutions have failed to  prevent or adequately treat their occurrence.

Let's Talk About Testosterone

Some sports figures have abused it. Many men with “low T” have used it. But most women have been refused it. While over 25 testosterone products in the United States are available to men, for women, there are no FDA-approved testosterone products.  For vaginal atrophy and pain with intercourse, only estrogen creams or pills are recommended.

Is There a Window for Menopausal Hormone Replacement Therapy to Help Reduce the Risk of Dementia?

Dementia conjures up many images. As we age, we all worry that the momentary misplaced car keys or the questionable location of the parked car in a large lot may indicate early dementia. In reality, the early signs of dementia are more likely evidenced by putting the car keys in the refrigerator or forgetting how to drive to your familiar home.

I’m Getting Older…Am I Still Relevant?