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hormonal imbalance symptoms and treatment
13Aug

Hormonal imbalance is one of the most common health issues affecting women. Millions around the world are affected by it. It manifests itself in numerous forms and affects the following states:

  • Emotional
  • Mental
  • Physical

This blog post will help you understand hormonal imbalance symptoms and treatment. It will examine the causes, signs, symptoms, and management strategies. Understanding these underlying factors and implementing proper treatment measures can help women restore their hormonal health and achieve a better quality of life.

Understanding hormonal imbalance in women

Hormonal imbalance is a collective term that includes all conditions linked to hormones. This imbalance occurs in women when there is an excessive level or a deficiency of one or more of these hormones.

A refresher: Hormones are substances that regulate various bodily functions by sending messages through the bloodstream to the muscles, skin, organs, and other tissues. These messages convey the necessary actions and their corresponding timing to the entire body. Life and health are dependent on hormones. They affect many bodily processes, especially:

  • Metabolism.
  • Homeostasis (constancy in the internal environment).
  • Growth and Development.
  • Reproductive Functions.
  • Sleep cycle patterns.
  • Mood variations.

With time, significant physiological fluctuations in hormone levels occur within women’s bodies, especially premenstrual syndrome, pregnancy, and menopause. Certain crucial hormones are quite imbalanced among women (thereby causing hormonal imbalance in women). They are:

  • Adrenaline.
  • Growth hormones.
  • Steroid hormones.
  • Insulin.
  • Estrogen.
  • Progesterone (a hormone secreted by the ovaries).

These hormonal imbalances can lead to fundamental endocrine disorders that need medical intervention and treatment.

Common Causes of Hormonal Imbalances in Women

Here are some common causes and signs of hormonal imbalance appearing in women:

Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Irregular periods are one of the most common signs of hormone imbalance in females. This includes missed periods, unusual bleeding (light, heavy), and those that are brief or longer than the duration. Progesterone and estrogen hormone imbalance can cause these fluctuations. The condition is visible during puberty, pregnancy, and perimenopause.

Irritability and Mood Swings

Hormones do have a close link to human emotions. Fluctuations of such can cause noticeable mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or depression. Levels of estrogen and progesterone can vary, especially during perimenopause, which can cause emotional instability.

Fatigue and Low Energy Levels

Even with adequate sleep, persistent fatigue often indicates fluctuating hormone levels. Both thyroid hormones (regulators of metabolism) and adrenal hormones (managers of stress responses) influence energy levels. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or an overactive one (hyperthyroidism) in females can cause them to experience frequent tiredness.

Difficulties in Gaining or Losing Weight

Cortisol, insulin, and thyroid hormones play essential roles in regulating metabolism and storing fat. Varying levels of these hormones can lead to unexplained gains or losses in weight. Women experiencing such weight level changes without any exercise routine or changes in diet need to check for any imbalance in their hormone levels.

Disturbances in Sleep Patterns

Fluctuations in progesterone can cause problems with falling or staying asleep. It helps females relax and sleep. Its levels naturally decline with age and can be low during perimenopause. Imbalances in estrogen levels can cause night sweats, leading to disturbances in sleeping patterns.

Acne or Other Skin Changes

Changes in hormone levels, especially a rise in androgens like testosterone, lead to more oil produced by the skin. This results in acne, especially in areas of the jawline or on the chin. The condition is visible during puberty, menstruation, or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Hair Thinning or Hair Loss

Thyroid or estrogen hormone imbalance can cause hair loss or thinning in women. Individuals experiencing thyroid dysfunction or menopause may notice their hair thinning or shedding on the scalp.

Addressing Hormonal Imbalances via The Right Treatment

If females notice any of the previously mentioned symptoms, then they should consult with a women’s specialist healthcare professional right away. Here are some ways they can address hormonal imbalances and answer the query “how to treat hormone imbalance”:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT can be a viable option for ladies enduring menopause or managing hormonal fluctuations due to aging. The treatment can help control symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. Healthcare providers can determine whether HRT is the right choice for treatment.

Managing the Thyroid

Thyroid fluctuations are treated with prescription medications. The medications can help with either of the following:

  • Supplementing thyroid hormones (for hypothyroidism).
  • Helping regulate thyroid activity (for hyperthyroidism).

Regular blood tests help monitor thyroid levels and also help in determining the correct treatment.

Changes in Lifestyle

Both diet and exercise play a role in balancing hormones. A diet dense in nutrients and rich in the following can support healthy hormone production:

  • Fruits.
  • Lean Proteins.
  • Vegetables.
  • Whole Grains.

Regular physical activity also helps regulate insulin levels and improve mood.

Stress Management

Chronic stress raises cortisol production. If the output remains elevated, it can cause health issues, especially fatigue and weight gain. Stress reduction methods like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help control cortisol levels. In turn, it helps promote overall wellness.

Effects of Herbal Nutrients and Nutrients

Evening primrose oil, maca root, and Vitex (chaste tree berry) are among those natural supplements that can naturally balance hormones. But it is wise to consult with healthcare providers before using any supplements. It helps ensure their use is safe and effective for your specific requirements.

Routine Hormone Monitoring and Testing

Leading healthcare centers and professionals recommend routine hormone testing. This helps monitor fluctuations and ensures women’s hormone levels are balanced. Regular testing helps in the creation of optimized treatment plans. It provides the needed adjustments at the right time.

Conclusion

No healthcare professional should treat hormonal fluctuations and imbalances lightly. They are the stepping stones to critical health issues that can be expensive and hard to treat. Furthermore, these fluctuations require appropriate treatment to ensure the affected women recover in time and lead everyday lives.

For Consultation Contact us here:

Hotline: 03311110397

wa.me/+923302963300 | wa.me/+923312597322
OMI Hospital, 89/1 Depot Lines, MA Jinnah Rd, Karachi. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/g98JKgzfjRkiy5K66 )

Farooq Hospital-DHA Avenue Mall, Main Ghazi Rd, DHA, Lahore, Punjab 54000, Pakistan (https://maps.app.goo.gl/g98JKgzfjRkiy5K66 )

does smoking cause erectile dysfunction
12Aug

The link between erectile dysfunction (ED) and smoking is widely accepted across multiple communities. This is also proven by research. Numerous studies have linked cigarette smokers to an elevated risk of erectile dysfunction. This is primarily due to the adverse effects of smoking on the health of humans overall.

Many have quit the habit. However, they often wonder how long it takes for the ED to improve after quitting smoking. The answer is that it depends on the individual. Meaning some improve in a day, some in a week, and others in a year or two. Smoking and male fertility have an inverse relationship with each other.

We will now have a good look at how smoking causes erectile dysfunction. We will also be discussing treatments and how quitting smoking can help improve your sexual health.

Does smoking cause erectile dysfunction?

Smoking is a clear and proven threat. It is also an evident risk factor for causing erectile dysfunction (ED). Whether it is tobacco products or the effects of nicotine obtained by vaping, it is a bad habit.

But smoking itself is not a direct cause of erectile dysfunction. What it does is that the conditions that are associated with erectile dysfunction start up and worsen with time. Among them are:

  • Hypertension.
  • Stress.
  • Sexual Desire Disorders.
  • Heart conditions.
  • Obesity.
  • Anxiety.
  • Depression.

Does smoking cause erectile dysfunction? Smoking contributes to the development of erectile dysfunction itself, along with other kinds of sexual disorders. Other health problems are also a by-product of smoking. The dangers of ED are related to smoking. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has connected tobacco use to the following medical conditions and illnesses:

Briefly understanding Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) isn’t exactly full-scale impotence. A man can still get an erection, but will face issues. Meaning it does start gradually, but maintaining it can be an issue. At times, the dysfunction simply means the erection is not consistent. The worry itself becomes a barrier.

Reputed institutions reveal that ED is the inability to either obtain or maintain an erection firm enough to engage in sexual intercourse. Almost 30 million men in the United States are affected by it. Although it is more common with age, ageing itself isn’t the sole factor that causes this. ED has both physical and psychological causes. Nicotine is a villain as it affects both aspects.

In what ways does smoking affect the normal erection cycle and sexual drive in men?

Nicotine and tobacco are, unfortunately, villains. Cigarette smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco or smoking cigars, nicotine is present in them and is a stimulant that affects the cardiovascular system. It also has a lot of physiological effects on normal erectile function.

Erections are dependent on good blood flow. Limitations to that flow can make the  achievement and maintenance of erections quite challenging. Does smoking affect erection? Unfortunately, it does, and it can even harm it.

Men smoking more than 20 cigarettes daily have double the risk of severe ED compared to those smoking less. Here is how both nicotine and smoking cause erectile dysfunction:

The blood vessels narrow down

Nicotine causes vasoconstriction, i.e., the tightening of blood vessels, which limits circulation. It damages the inner lining of the arteries and reduces their elasticity over time. This condition is known as endothelial dysfunction. It makes normal blood flow difficult, especially during sexual arousal.

It disrupts the production of Nitric Oxide

Nitric Oxide is a molecule that relaxes the blood vessels. It then allows the blood to flow directly to the penis during sexual arousal. Nicotine interferes with the body’s ability to produce and use nitric oxide effectively. This, in turn, impairs erections.

Smokeless tobacco is of no use either. It also interferes with nitric oxide production and contributes to erectile dysfunction as a result.

It reduces testosterone levels over time

Some studies have linked chronic use of nicotine to a considerable reduction in testosterone levels. The relationship is yet to be fully understood. But lower testosterone levels can contribute to lower libido and substandard sexual function.

What can the affected do to overcome this?

No one can change their lifestyle overnight. However, they can implement small and gradual changes to make a significant difference. Let us take a look at some tips that can help affected men overcome erectile dysfunction:

Quitting smoking

There are countless benefits of quitting smoking. Nicotine patches work as a practical aid for cessation of tobacco. They improve the chances of people quitting smoking. The result is numerous health benefits (improved sexual performance among them). But using them requires consultation with a healthcare professional.

Checking smoking habits

The amount and duration of smoking can raise the risk of erectile dysfunction. A long history and higher dose of tobacco use correspond to a higher likelihood of severe ED. Monitoring smoking habits and tobacco usage can reduce the intake of such substances to reduce the risk of developing ED.

Visit a trustworthy doctor

A doctor can assess your lifestyle habits, hormone levels, and vascular health. ED can also be an early indicator of heart disease or other underlying conditions. It is wise to have your health checked.

Cessation support and nicotine replacement

Nicotine patches, Nicotine gum, Prescription medications, and behavioral support can help smokers ease off their habit gradually. Smoking cessation helps improve the sexual health of men suffering from ED. Nicotine helps deliver nicotine to the body and reduces dependence on cigarettes.

Improving blood circulation via lifestyle changes

A thirty-minute walk can help improve blood circulation. Here are some more tips on improving the same:

  • Regular and timely exercise.
  • Improved sleep.
  • A balanced diet.

Getting support for anxiety and stress

Performance anxiety can be present even after the improvement of physical issues. Meditation, therapy, or simply talking to someone about worries can help many overcome the mental stigma associated with ED.

Over to You

What is the main cause of erectile dysfunction? Many will reply that smoking causes it. Although not the sole reason, it is somehow the culprit. It is proven that smoking is bad for human health. It also causes impotence. If you are a smoker and are unsure of whether you have ED, book a consultation with https://drimtiazahmad.com/ right away.

For Consultation Contact us here:

Hotline: 03311110397

wa.me/+923302963300 | wa.me/+923312597322
OMI Hospital, 89/1 Depot Lines, MA Jinnah Rd, Karachi. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/g98JKgzfjRkiy5K66 )

Farooq Hospital-DHA Avenue Mall, Main Ghazi Rd, DHA, Lahore, Punjab 54000, Pakistan (https://maps.app.goo.gl/g98JKgzfjRkiy5K66 )

enlarged prostate symptoms
11Aug

At times, the symptoms of an enlarged prostate are mistaken for prostate cancer. Today, we will take a closer look at the signs of an enlarged prostate and indications of other disorders of the prostate.

Understanding the symptoms of an enlarged prostate

An enlarged prostate is a disorder also referred to as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is a common issue for males above 50. Yet its symptoms can be alarming as they can diminish the quality of life and even hide more serious medical disorders.

BPH is the leading cause of prostate disorders. What should also be understood is that infections can also cause an enlarged prostate. If there is blood in the urine, it can be either an infection or a potentially serious disorder (cancer, kidney disease). It is also a sign of BPH.
If you are experiencing enlarged prostate symptoms, do not hesitate to have a thorough medical evaluation by a specialist immediately.

Briefly understanding Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) happens when the prostate and surrounding tissue expand. The former undergoes two main growth stages as a person ages. The first one is early in puberty when the prostate doubles in size. The second one typically begins around the age of 25 and continues for most of a man’s life.

As a man ages, their prostate gets larger. BPH occurs when it becomes large enough to cause problems. Once the prostate grows, it presses against the urethra. The bladder walls thicken and may cause the bladder to weaken.

The thickened walls create Urinary Retention. It loses its ability to be empty completely. A little bit of urine remains in the bladder.

These issues cause numerous symptoms of the lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with BPH. Understanding how BPH creates symptoms can help your doctor determine the kind of treatment required to help you overcome it.

Understanding how the prostate works?

The prostate is part of the male reproductive system. Its main job is to make fluid for semen. It is about a walnut and weighs almost an ounce. Moreover, it sits below the bladder and right in front of the rectum.

The prostate also surrounds a tube called the urethra. The latter carries urine from the bladder through the penis.

Who is at risk for BPH?

The following men are at risk for BPH:

  • Men above the age of 50 (as the risk grows with age).
  • Those whose fathers had BPH.
  • Men who are overweight.
  • Those who have a sedentary lifestyle.
  • Men with erectile dysfunction ED).

Briefly examining the causes of an enlarged prostate

No one knows the cause of an enlarged prostate. Experts reveal that the condition affects millions of men worldwide as they age. The symptoms of an enlarged prostate make an appearance once a man reaches his forties.

50% of men between the ages of 51 and 60 are affected by BPH. The figure reaches 90% for men above the age of 80.

Older men are most affected by BPH. Experts believe the condition can be linked to ageing and hormonal changes. As a man’s testosterone levels decline with age, this results in a greater percentage of estrogen. This could be the factor triggering the prostate’s growth.

This is further supported by the fact that younger men who had their testicles surgically removed due to testicular cancer never developed BPH. Moreover, the National Institute of Health (NIH) suggests that the accumulation of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). When testosterone levels decrease, this can lead to the growth of prostate cells.

Treatment for an enlarged prostate

What is the latest treatment for an enlarged prostate? This is a question many are asking these days due to rising awareness of BPH and prostate cancer. There are many ways of getting the prostate back to normal, but all of this depends on the severity of the condition.
In relatively mild conditions, limiting consumption of sodas, coffee, and tea is needed. Caffeine increases the frequency of urination by stimulating the bladder.

Here are the treatments for an enlarged prostate.

Medications

Alpha Blockers: They relax the muscles of the bladder and the prostate. This, therefore, makes urination easy.

Alpha Reductase Inhibitors: They block the hormones that cause the prostate to grow. In some cases, they shrink the prostate.

Treatments

Here are the treatments for an enlarged prostate:

  • UroLift: They are tiny implants designed to hold the prostatic urethra open and remove obstructions.
  • Aquablation: Shrinking the prostate using a heat-free water jet.
  • Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE): They involve the insertion of micro particles through a catheter in the prostate artery. It reduces blood supply to the prostate, hence shrinking it over time.
  • Rezum water vapour therapy: A steam-induced treatment removing excess prostate tissue.
  • Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): A surgical procedure that removes some of the prostate tissue.

The best treatment option for an affected patient depends on the severity of the symptoms. The test results also count. Can running cause prostate problems? It does not. However, it can worsen existing conditions. If not treated, an enlarged prostate can create the following:

This is why you should consult a doctor right away.

Over to you

An enlarged prostate is indeed bad news. Its symptoms can be troublesome without any doubt. This is why visiting a physician firsthand is even better, as it helps determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment for the condition.

For Consultation Contact us here:

Hotline: 03311110397

wa.me/+923302963300 | wa.me/+923312597322
OMI Hospital, 89/1 Depot Lines, MA Jinnah Rd, Karachi. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/g98JKgzfjRkiy5K66 )

Farooq Hospital-DHA Avenue Mall, Main Ghazi Rd, DHA, Lahore, Punjab 54000, Pakistan (https://maps.app.goo.gl/g98JKgzfjRkiy5K66 )

11Mar

Varicocele embolization is generally considered a low-pain, minimally invasive procedure, with discomfort typically minimized through careful technique and anesthesia. Here’s a structured summary:

1. Anesthesia:

– Local anesthesia and topical numbing agents are applied at the insertion site (often the neck for jugular vein access), preventing pain from needle/catheter insertion.
– Patients remain awake but do not feel sharp pain at the site due to numbing.

2. Procedure Details:

– A thin catheter (4 FR) is guided through veins to the varicocele. While internal veins lack pain receptors, patients might sense mild pressure or movement, which is usually more odd than painful.
– Medical glue injection is typically painless, though rare instances of a warm sensation or brief discomfort are possible.

3. Patient Experience:

– Most report little to no pain during the procedure, with some describing temporary pressure or tugging.
– Post-procedure, mild soreness or bruising at the insertion site may occur, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

4. Comparison to Surgery:

– Less pain and faster recovery than surgical alternatives (e.g., open or laparoscopic surgery), which involve incisions and general anesthesia.

5. Variability:

– Individual pain tolerance varies, but severe pain is uncommon. Complications (e.g., infection, glue migration) are rare but could cause discomfort.

Conclusion:

Varicocele embolization is designed to be gentle, with discomfort kept to a minimum through local anesthesia and precise imaging. While minor sensations like pressure might occur, significant pain is atypical, making it a well-tolerated option for most patients.

10Mar

1. What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic concern; these swollen, snaking vessels can appear in shades of blue, red, or even skin-toned. They often resemble cords rising above the surface of the skin, primarily gracing the thighs, calves, and legs. Interestingly, during pregnancy, they may also emerge in sensitive areas like the vagina, buttocks, and rectum.

2. What Causes Them?

These veins emerge when the superficial veins in the lower abdomen or legs become blocked, primarily due to:
– Impaired Venous Valves: When valves are absent or defective, trouble follows.
– Increased Venous Pressure: Long periods of standing, obesity, or pregnancy can exacerbate the issue.

3. Who’s at Risk?

Several factors can heighten your chances of experiencing varicose veins:
– Genetic Predisposition: A family history can make you more susceptible.
– Advancing Age: Aging weakens vein valves, increasing risk.
– Gender: Females face greater odds, often due to hormonal influences.
– Pregnancy: A significant trigger due to increased blood flow and pressure from the uterus.
– Obesity: Extra weight adds stress to your veins.
– Posture: Too much sitting or standing can hinder healthy circulation.

4. Pregnancy and Symptoms

– When to Expect: Typically surfaces in the 2nd or 3rd trimester.
– Common Symptoms: Look out for redness, swelling, itching, and discomfort.

Location-Specific Symptoms:
– Legs: Experience edema, night cramps, numbness, heaviness, and worries about aesthetics.
– Vulva: You might feel a sense of fullness or pressure, raising concerns about delivery.
– Rectum: Varicose veins can lead to hemorrhoids, often worsened by constipation.
– Recurrence: If experienced in the first pregnancy, there’s a good chance of recurrence in subsequent ones.

5. Treatment Pathways

Sclerotherapy
– How It Works: Involves injecting a sclerosing agent to collapse the problematic vein.
– Pros: Boasts a success rate of 70-80% for smaller veins.
– Cons: Recurrence is common; potential risks include infection, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), nerve damage, and skin discoloration.
– Recovery: Can involve a longer healing period.

Embolization (e.g., CLARIVEIN®)
– How It Works: A minimally invasive procedure using a catheter to block the vein under local anesthesia.
– Pros: Offers a remarkable 90-95% success rate; low chances of recurrence when precautions are taken; the process is generally painless and safe.
– Recovery: Quick turnaround, often complementing other treatment methods.

6. Smart Prevention Strategies

– Stay Active: Combat inactivity with regular exercise.
– Mind Your Posture: Elevate your legs and steer clear of prolonged sitting or standing.
– Lifestyle Choices: Opt for loose-fitting clothing and compression stockings, maintain a healthy weight, and embrace a high-fiber diet.
– Footwear Wisdom: Ditch the high heels for more comfortable options.

7. Key Takeaway

Don’t hesitate to consult an experienced Interventional Radiologist or an Endovascular surgeon** early on for diagnosis and tailored treatments. Addressing varicose veins promptly can not only prevent complications but also enhance your overall well-being—especially during pregnancy!