Hormones play an important role in the normal function of the human body. From middle age onward, hormone levels diminish. This natural change in hormone levels can cause disruptive symptoms that can have an impact on the individual’s quality of life. Hormone replacement therapy can relieve these symptoms and provide increased quality of life for individuals experiencing hormone deficiencies.
What Is Hormone Replacement Therapy?
As people age, their hormone levels naturally diminish. The menstrual cycle in women begins to dwindle, marking an end to their childbearing years. Men may experience changes in muscle mass and energy levels. Although these changes are normal, the fluctuating hormone levels may cause uncomfortable symptoms in some people. Hormone replacement therapy, from places like Genemedics Health Institute, restores some of the hormones needed for normal physical function. It can help to relieve troublesome symptoms, and can help people to feel more energetic.
Symptoms of Low Estrogen Levels in Women
Estrogen levels naturally diminish in women over the age of 50. However, sometimes, this drop in estrogen level causes symptoms that can disrupt daily life. Symptoms of decreasing estrogen levels include:
- Changes in menstrual cycle
- Hot flashes
- Sleep problems
- Skin dryness
- Changes in breast tissue
- Fatigue
- Vaginal tissue atrophy causing painful sex
- Decreased libido
- Urinary incontinence
How Estrogen Replacement Therapy Can Help
Hormone replacement therapy can reduce the symptoms of low estrogen levels in women, improving sexual drive and function, reducing urinary symptoms and increasing better sleep patterns. Women who have reached the age of menopause should discuss the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy with their physicians to see if it is right for them.
Symptoms of Low Testosterone Levels in Men
Testosterone is the primary hormone that controls male sexual characteristics. When testosterone levels fall too low, men may experience a variety of symptoms, such as:
- Increased body fat
- Decreased muscle mass
- Fatigue
- Reduced body hair
- Sleep problems
- Hot flashes
- Decreased sex drive and performance
How Testosterone Replacement Therapy Can Help
Testosterone replacement therapy can help to replace the lost hormones needed for normal body function. Testosterone can be given by oral medication, injection, transdermal patch or as a gel that is applied to the skin. Hormone replacement can help to reduce the symptoms of low testosterone levels and can improve muscle tone, energy levels and sex drive. Men who suspect low testosterone as the cause of their symptoms, should discuss the benefits and risk of hormone replacement therapy with their physicians.