Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a fairly common occurrence and a situation we tackle on nearly a daily basis at our wellness center. In fact, it is estimated that UTIs account for nearly 8.3 million visits to the doctor's office. Although most cases are women, we also come across men and seniors who are prone towards infection of the urinary tract or prostate.For the purposes of this article we will discuss infections of the lower urinary tract which occur in the urethra and the bladder. It should be noted that UTIs can become a chronic problem for many women resulting in a nearly constant need for antibiotics to keep the bacteria in check. There are a number of subgroups of women who are prone towards developing UTIs, these include:
1.Pregnant women – UTIs are considered the most common infection in pregnant women and can place the fetus at risk of complication. Infections in pregnancy must be treated immediately in order to prevent such complications.
2.Women in college – Frequent sexual activity is certainly linked to risk of UTIs and a number of studies have found college-age women are at increased risk.
3.Women with extenuating circumstances – Such situations as neurogenic bladder, post-menopausal women with diabetes, poor health, vaginal dryness or previous UTI.
Hormone Replacement Therapy – the rest of the story…
Written by Brian Sanderoff, P.D.
In
last month’s column I reviewed the valid medical reasons why Hormone
Replacement Therapy (HRT) or Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT) should
be used in women going through menopause… NONE!
Hormone Replacement Therapy – an idea whose time has passed
Written by Brian Sanderoff, P.D.
The
concept of Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT (formerly known as
Estrogen Replacement Therapy or ERT) was flawed from the outset.It
was never able to deliver on the promise of protecting women from the
ravages of aging, such as defending against heart disease, avoiding
osteoporosis, or keeping them feeling young forever.
