Hormone Replacement Therapy For Preventing Osteoporosis

By Patricia Wagner


Bone weakening is actually a disease that's referred to by doctors as osteoporosis. What makes it a very serious matter is the fact that it can increase fracture risk. Men and women alike may one day suffer from osteoporosis, although experts say that it's more common in women as a result of menopause. It's a good thing that hormone replacement therapy or HRT can help considerably lower a menopausal woman's chance of developing this very serious bone disease.

Estrogen is something that helps keep the bones from becoming frail and brittle. It's just one of the many tasks that this particular hormone carries out. For as long as there's plenty of this naturally-existing chemical in the body, ending up with osteoporosis should not be a major cause for alarm among women.

Sadly, the levels of estrogen suddenly drop during the menopausal stage. This is exactly the reason why menopause is regarded as a major risk factor for osteoporosis. Such is also the reason why the dreaded bone condition is more commonly seen in women than in men who won't end up with osteoporosis.

Having a fracture as a result of osteoporosis can considerably decrease the quality of life of a woman. Its presence can keep her from carrying out activities that add lots of meaning and happiness to life. In fact, performing everyday physical tasks can prove to be a massive problem if a fracture is around. Hip fracture is very much likely to happen, and it requires undergoing surgical treatment that is not only expensive but also very risky.

HRT can help save women from encountering osteoporosis and the various problems that may stem from it. Such is perfect most especially for those who may wind up with the serious bone disease because of various other reasons. Aside from osteoporosis, HRT is known to effectively address the many other issues associated with menopause due to the fact that it encourages restored balance of the female hormones.

HRT is very good at managing one of the most pestering menopause-related issues, and that's none other than hot flashes. It can be a very big problem at night as it's the root cause of night sweats that can keep women from getting some sleep. HRT can also address appetite changes, unwanted weight gain, mood swings and hair loss due to menopause.

However, it's important to note that there are some risks that are associated with HRT. This is why some menopausal women are actually discouraged from going for it. Those who are prone to having breast cancer, for instance, are not encouraged to give HRT a try. The same is true for women who are at risk for or already suffering from heart disease.

Aside from undergoing HRT, there are other things that may be done in order to fend off osteoporosis that has something to do with menopause. It's a good idea for women to opt for an everyday diet that's rich in calcium and vitamin D. Exercising on a regular basis is highly recommended, too. Certainly, cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol intake should be avoided by women.




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