As women age estrogen levels fall, which impacts many parts of the body including skin, bones, and bladder.

Dry itchy skin is a common complaint. FACT: Without estrogen, the body tissues lose elasticity and shrink. A common complaint is you feel like your skin is crawling or it becomes sweaty and hot. There is an increased sensitivity to the sun, problem with teeth such as bleeding gums, loose teeth, and the eyes may be dry and itchy. FACT: Estrogen is a hormone that is circulated in the blood and affect both the well being and general state of health. FACT: Menopause is triggered by hormonal changes in the endocrine system. FACT: The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates (the father of medicine) was the first to describe menopause, which he put at the age of 50. FACT: A blood test called the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can reveal the arrival of menopause. The common medical response to menopause and estrogen loss is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). HRT is a synthetic form that acts as a replacement for the natural hormone, estrogen, the body produced in higher levels prior to menopause.

Hormone Replacement Therapy must be prescribed by a licensed physician. Recent studies indicate HRT has the potential for significant side effects. The side effects should be carefully evaluated. More information on the risks of HRT can be found from the following sources:

1. National Women’s Health Network – 514 10th Street NW, Suite 402, Washington, DC 20004, Phone 202-347-1140.

2. National Institution on Aging Information Center – P.O. Box 8057, Gaitnersburg, MD 20898-8057, Phone 800-222-2225, Publishes resource directory for older people, resources for women’s health and aging.