hormone therapy southfield

Is Bioidentical Hormone Therapy the New Fountain of Youth?

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Natural Hormone Therapy: BHRT is the Key to Anti-Aging

We all wish we had the secret to turning back the clock and looking and feeling like our younger selves! So, what if we told you that a safe and natural treatment available in the Southfield, MI, MI area does offer many antiaging benefits?

Understanding the causes of aging is the first step to reversing it. As we age, our hormone levels decline – which is the underlying leading cause of the physical and mental changes that are often associated with getting older. Weight gain, low energy, sexual problems, weak bones, brain fog, loss of muscle, sleep problems, and more can all have their cause rooted in the hormone decline of menopause in women and andropause in men.

But many people don’t realize that it is possible to slow down or even reverse the aging process by addressing hormonal imbalances. Natural hormone therapy can help restore balance, improve overall health, and enhance the quality of life for both men and women.

At Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area, Dr. Nishath Hakim offers safe, natural hormone therapy as a powerful tool to combat many of the physical, mental, and even cosmetic signs of aging.

Hormones Decline & How It Affects Aging

As we age, our bodies undergo significant hormonal changes. In women, menopause marks a dramatic decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, weight gain, painful sex, urinary incontinence, and more.

Men experience a similar phenomenon known as andropause, characterized by a gradual decline in testosterone levels. This decrease in testosterone – often called “Low T” – can lead to weight gain, muscle loss, fatigue, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and more. Addressing these imbalances through anti-aging hormone therapy can alleviate many of these symptoms and promote a more youthful and vibrant state of health at every age and stage of life.

Why BHRT is Safe & Natural

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) utilizes plant-derived hormones that are chemically identical to those naturally produced by the human body. Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are derived from natural sources and are tailored to match each individual’s specific hormonal needs.

This approach ensures better compatibility with the body’s natural processes, reducing the risk of side effects and improving efficacy. BHRT is considered safe and effective for managing symptoms of hormonal decline and is a cornerstone of anti-aging medicine.

Ways Hormone Therapy Can Slow or Reverse Aging:

Hormone Therapy for Weight Gain

During menopause or andropause, individuals often experience unexplained weight gain despite maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine. In women, low estrogen levels can lead to fat accumulation around the midsection, known as visceral fat, which is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues.

In men, a decline in testosterone levels can result in an imbalance of female hormones, leading to fat storage in the belly and breast areas. Hormone therapy at Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area can help restore estrogen and testosterone levels, aiding in weight control – as well as preserving muscle mass.

Hormone Therapy for Building Muscle

Testosterone is vital for muscle growth in men, but estrogen also plays a significant role in muscle health for women. Research from the University of Minnesota has shown that estrogen is crucial for the function of satellite cells, which are responsible for muscle regeneration.

By maintaining hormonal balance, hormone therapy at Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area can support muscle building and maintenance, helping men and women stay strong and fit even as they get older.

Hormone Therapy for Wrinkles

Hormone decline also takes its toll on the skin – and wrinkles and lines are often viewed as inevitable aspects of aging. However, maintaining optimal hormone balance can protect the skin and delay these signs of aging.

Female hormones like estrogen play a crucial role in the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, which keep the skin plump, smooth, and hydrated. But hormonal decline can cause the skin to thin, lose elasticity, and dry out, leading to sagging, lines, and wrinkles. Hormone therapy at Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area can stimulate the production of these essential proteins, resulting in smoother, more youthful skin.

Hormone Therapy for Concentration & Memory

Low levels of estrogen and progesterone have been clinically proven to affect cognitive functions, leading to brain fog and memory issues. Restoring these hormones through therapy can improve mental clarity and enhance memory, supporting overall brain health.

Hormone Therapy for Lack of Energy

Fatigue is a common symptom of hormonal decline in both women and men. In women, a progesterone imbalance can cause sleepiness, while men with low testosterone often experience a significant decrease in energy levels. Additionally, thyroid hormone deficiencies, which are common in aging individuals, can slow metabolism and deplete energy levels.

Safe and natural hormone therapy at Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area can help restore balance, ensuring that both men and women maintain their vitality and energy at every age and every stage of their life.

Hormone Therapy for Women’s Hair Loss

Hair loss has a variety of causers. But in women, hair loss can be due to menopausal hormone decline. Menopausal hair loss tends to occur gradually, resulting in overall thinning rather than distinct bald patches. This diffuse thinning can affect the entire scalp, including the front, sides, and top. Hormonal imbalance can also cause hair to come out in clumps during brushing or washing.

By balancing women’s hormones with BHRT at Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area, hormone therapy can help reduce hair loss and promote healthier hair growth, offering a fuller, more vibrant head of hair.

Hormone Therapy May Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk in Women

Recent research has established a link between hormone decline and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease in women. Studies have shown that hormone replacement therapy can slow biological aging, particularly in women with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s.

By maintaining hormone levels, BHRT may help decelerate the aging process and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in some women, providing a significant benefit for cognitive health.

Hormone Therapy for a Better Sex Life

In men, testosterone decline due to aging (“Low T”) often brings challenges such as erectile dysfunction (ED) and a decrease in sex drive. Hormone therapy can address these issues by restoring testosterone, improving sexual function and performance and reigniting desire.

For women, hormone therapy at Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area can often help alleviate sexual issues, including vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, loss of sensation, and low libido, enhancing sexual satisfaction and intimacy.

Natural Hormone Therapy (BHRT) | Southfield, MI Area

At Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area we offer safe and natural BHRT hormone therapy as part of a comprehensive approach to anti-aging. Hormone therapy is in many ways a medical “fountain of youth” that can help manage or reverse many of the signs of aging, addressing everything from weight gain and wrinkles to energy levels and sexual health.

Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in the Southfield, MI area provides personalized hormone therapy tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring you only receive the hormones you need to achieve the best possible results and reverse the signs of aging. By restoring hormonal balance, Dr. Hakim in the Southfield, MI area helps patients experience a significant improvement in their overall health and well-being, with restored youthful vitality.

If you live in the greater Southfield, MI area and you would like to learn how safe and natural hormone therapy can help you turn back time, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hakim at Prosperity Health today.

Hormone Therapy | Southfield, MI Area: 248-997-4242

Unexplained Symptoms that May be Due to Hormone Imbalance

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From Frustrating to Serious, Your Symptoms Could be Hormone Imbalance

Are you experiencing frustrating unexplained symptoms that seem to have no clear cause? Are you dealing with chronic health complaints on a daily basis, that your doctors have failed to diagnose or remedy? If so, you may be dealing with hormone imbalance!

While extremely common, hormone imbalances are often overlooked – leading to symptoms that can wreak havoc on your health and well-being. Fortunately, hormone therapy offers a safe and effective solution for restoring balance and alleviating symptoms – so you can get your life back on track.

In this article, functional medicine Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD in the Southfield area explains how hormones impact every aspect of your health. And she discusses how hormone therapy, specifically bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) pellets, can help bring your body back into harmony to eliminate your symptoms, so you can enjoy life again.

How Hormones Affect Every Aspect of Health

Hormones play a critical role in regulating almost every function of the body: from metabolism and mood, to sleep, sexual function, weight gain, and energy. But when hormones become imbalanced, whether due to age, stress, menopause, andropause (male menopause), or other factors, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, and more.

For women, fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels can cause issues such as hot flashes, night sweats, painful sex, aging skin, weight gain, irregular periods, bone loss, heart disease, and more. So, as you can see, hormone imbalance can have a profound impact on a woman’s overall health and quality of life.

Causes of Women’s Hormone Imbalance

Menopause is the most well-known cause of hormone decline. But women of any age can suffer symptoms due to hormone imbalance or deficiency. For women, hormone imbalance can also be caused by stress, dietary factors, and underlying health conditions.

As women age, levels of estrogen and progesterone naturally decline, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. But chronic stress can also disrupt hormone balance by increasing cortisol levels, which can throw other hormones out of whack. And poor diet, lack of exercise, and exposure to environmental toxins can also exacerbate hormone imbalances, making it essential to identify and address these underlying factors.

Hormone Imbalance in Women Under 40

For women under 40, hormone imbalance can manifest in various ways, with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) being a common culprit. PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalances that can lead to irregular periods, acne, weight gain, and excess hair growth. Insulin resistance and high levels of androgens, such as testosterone, are hallmark features of PCOS, contributing to its symptoms. Additionally, stress, poor diet, and lifestyle factors can exacerbate hormone imbalance in younger women, making it essential to address these underlying issues alongside hormone therapy for effective treatment.

Signs of hormone imbalance before perimenopause can include:

  • Heavy or painful periods
  • Fertility issues
  • Excessive hair growth on the face or body
  • Unexplained or rapid weight gain
  • Weight that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise

Hormone Imbalance in Women 40 to 45

Only one percent of women go into the pre-menopausal hormone decline before age 40. But as women approach their early 40s, they may experience perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause. During this time, hormone levels fluctuate unpredictably, leading to symptoms such as irregular periods, mood swings, and hot flashes. Estrogen levels begin to decline, while progesterone levels may fluctuate, resulting in hormonal imbalance. Stress and lifestyle factors can further disrupt hormone balance during perimenopause, making it crucial for women in this age group to prioritize self-care and seek hormone therapy to alleviate symptoms and support overall well-being.

The earliest signs of perimenopausal hormone imbalance include:

  • Sudden and/or unexplained weight gain
  • Periods that are lighter than usual
  • Three or more missed periods in a row
  • Insomnia or sleep problems
  • Hot flashes
  • Vaginal dryness or itching

And because these symptoms can also be signs of pregnancy or other medical conditions, a hormone imbalance is often missed.

Hormone Imbalance in Women 45-50

Between the ages of 45 and 50, women typically enter menopause, marking the end of their reproductive years. During menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels decline significantly, leading to a wide range of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. Hormone imbalance during menopause can have a profound impact on quality of life, affecting everything from sleep and mood to bone health and heart health. Hormone therapy, such as BHRT pellets, can help restore hormone balance and alleviate menopausal symptoms, allowing women to navigate this transition with greater ease and comfort.

In addition to the symptoms above, hormone decline at ages 45 to 50 often include:

  • Irritability
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Mood swings or volatile emotions
  • Night sweats
  • Low sex drive (low libido)
  • Memory issues
  • Trouble concentrating or
  • Thinning hair
  • Dry, wrinkled or crepey skin
  • Increased or irregular heart rate
  • Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Hormone Imbalance in Women 55 and Beyond

By the age of 55 years old, most women have gone through menopause. A year after a female’s last period, a woman is considered to be in the postmenopausal phase. During the postmenopausal phase, a woman’s risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, Type 2 diabetes, and other serious diseases can also increase – influenced in large part by hormone deficiency.

In addition to the symptoms above, the following problems of hormone decline also become more common:

  • Bladder leaks (urinary incontinence)
  • Increased anxiety
  • Osteoporosis (decreased bone density)
  • Changes in breast tissue
  • Breast tenderness or pain
  • Markedly sagging or wrinkled skin
  • Painful sex
  • Inability or decreased ability to achieve an orgasm

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) can help protect a woman against heart disease, osteoporosis, and many other age-related diseases.

Hormone Imbalance in Women After 55

After the age of 55, women may continue to experience hormone imbalance as they adjust to life post-menopause. Estrogen and progesterone levels remain low, increasing the risk of health issues such as osteoporosis, heart disease, and cognitive decline.

Less Common Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance

While the symptoms above are the most common signs of hormone decline, there are also a number of less common symptoms of hormone imbalance. And while they can be extremely frustrating, because they are less common, they are often misdiagnosed. These can include:

  • Tingling in the hands or feet
  • Bloating
  • Brittle, cracked fingernails
  • Dizziness or balance issues
  • Panic attacks
  • Depression
  • Headaches
  • Burning tongue
  • Digestion issues
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Changes in body odor

How Hormone Therapy (BHRT Pellets) Can Balance Hormones

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) offers a natural and personalized approach to hormone balancing that can help alleviate these symptoms and restore vitality. BHRT pellets, which are derived from plant-based sources and designed to mimic the body’s natural hormones, are inserted beneath the skin and release hormones gradually over time.

This steady release of hormones helps maintain stable hormone levels, providing consistent symptom relief without the peaks and valleys associated with other forms of hormone therapy. BHRT pellets are customized to each individual’s unique hormone needs based on comprehensive testing and evaluation, ensuring optimal results and minimal side effects.

Hormone therapy can play a crucial role in supporting women’s health and well-being during menopause as well as many stages of life, restoring hormone balance to promote overall vitality and longevity. By addressing hormone imbalance with personalized treatment and comprehensive care, women can thrive at any age and enjoy a vibrant and fulfilling life.

Hormone Therapy | Southfield

If you’re struggling with unexplained symptoms or suspect you may have hormone imbalance, you do NOT have to suffer in silence. Functional medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD, in the Southfield area offers hormone therapy, specifically BHRT pellets, that provides a safe and effective solution for restoring balance to your body so you can reclaim your health and restore your quality of life.

By addressing the root cause of your symptoms with personalized hormone therapy, functional medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in the Southfield area can help you achieve lasting relief and improved quality of life.

If you live in the greater Southfield, MI area, don’t wait any longer to take control of your health—schedule a consultation with functional medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD today and learn if the transformative benefits of hormone therapy are right for you.

Southfield Hormone Therapy Doctor: 248-997-4242

How Hormone Therapy Can Help Mental Health During Menopause

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Don’t Let Menopause Hormone Imbalance Compromise Your Mental Health

Let’s face it: menopause is no picnic in the park. And, most women are aware that with the hormone decline of menopause comes symptoms like hot flashes, low energy, and unwanted weight gain.  But many of our female patients are not aware that hormone decline can also cause serious mental health issues as well.

The good news is that replacing or rebalancing the hormones lost due to menopause can alleviate many symptoms of menopause – as well as help stave off certain serious physical and mental illnesses. This is why understanding the intricate interplay of hormones and their impact on women’s bodies and women’s minds becomes paramount.

In this article, Dr. Nishath Hakim, MD, a renowned functional medicine practitioner in the Southfield, MI area, explores the recent evidence of the relationship between women’s mental health and hormone imbalance.  And she offers insights grounded in evidence-based research into the profoundly beneficial effects of hormone therapy on mental health, menopause, and overall well-being.

Menopause and Depression

Research has shown that women with a history of clinical depression and/or anxiety are more likely to experience recurring clinical depression or anxiety during menopause. The hormonal fluctuations that occur during menopause, particularly the decline in estrogen levels, can impact neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a key role in regulating mood.

Additionally, menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and changes in libido can contribute to feelings of distress and exacerbate underlying mental health conditions. A study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry found that women transitioning through menopause were at increased risk of experiencing depressive symptoms compared to premenopausal women.

Menopause and Bipolar Disorder

Menopause has also been shown in medical research to increase symptoms of bipolar disorder. In some women, the hormonal shifts of menopause compromise neurotransmitter activity in the brain, triggering mood swings and exacerbating symptoms of bipolar disorder.

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that women with bipolar disorder experienced more severe mood symptoms during perimenopause and menopause compared to women without bipolar disorder. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations during menopause can impact sleep patterns and stress levels, further leading to mood instability in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Menopause and Schizophrenia

The decline in estrogen levels during menopause has also been shown in research studies to trigger or aggravate certain psychotic conditions, including schizophrenia. Estrogen has neuroprotective properties and plays a role in regulating neurotransmitter activity in the brain.

A study published in the journal Schizophrenia Research found that women with schizophrenia experienced worsening symptoms during menopause, including increased hallucinations and delusions. Hormone therapy may be considered as part of the treatment plan for women with schizophrenia experiencing menopausal symptoms to help stabilize mood and reduce psychotic symptoms.

Menopause and Alzheimer’s

Accelerated biological aging is associated with women with a certain genetic Alzheimer’s risk factor. However, hormone therapy may slow this aging process and potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining brain health and cognitive function, and its decline during menopause has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease in women.

A study published in Neurology found that women who underwent hormone therapy after menopause had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared to women who did not receive hormone therapy. Additionally, hormone therapy may help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline in women during and after menopause.

Hormone Therapy for Menopause Mental Health

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT pellets), offered at Prosperity Health in Southfield, MI, provides a promising, safe and effective solution for many women experiencing mental health issues due to hormone imbalance during menopause. Additionally, BHRT can help alleviate “brain fog”, and memory and concentration issues as well as lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

BHRT pellets contain 100% natural, plant-derived, bioidentical hormones that closely mimic the hormones naturally produced by the body, including estrogen and progesterone. By replenishing hormone levels to their optimal range, BHRT pellets can help stabilize mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve overall mental well-being.

By addressing the root cause of certain mental health issues that are caused or aggravated by hormonal imbalance, BHRT pellets offer a targeted and effective approach to improving women’s mental well-being during menopause.  Under the guidance of functional medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in the Southfield area, women can explore hormone therapy as a safe and holistic option for reducing or reversing their risk of mental health issues associated with menopause.

Menopause Doctor Southfield

With a comprehensive understanding of hormone therapy’s profound impact on mental health and menopause, functional medicine doctor Nishath Hakim, MD in the Southfield area empowers women to reclaim control over their physical and mental health.

Through personalized BHRT treatment plans and a commitment to holistic care, Dr. Hakim guides her patients toward optimal wellness, ensuring that each step taken is a stride toward a brighter, healthier future, at every age.

Southfield, MI Menopause Doctor: 248-997-4242

Resources:

Bromberger, J. T., Kravitz, H. M., Chang, Y.-F., Cyranowski, J. M., Brown, C., & Matthews, K. A. (2013). Major depression during and after the menopausal transition: Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN). Psychological Medicine, 43(06), 1285–1297.

Marsh, W. K., Templeton, J., & Miklowitz, D. J. (2008). An Open Trial of Divided- Versus Single-Dose Extended-Release Lithium: Does Lithium Level Matter? Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 69(02), 278–279.

Seeman, M. V. (2014). Menopause and schizophrenia. Menopause International, 20(2), 63–66.

Henderson, V. W., St John, J. A., Hodis, H. N., McCleary, C. A., & Stanczyk, F. Z. (2016). Long-term soy isoflavone supplementation and cognition in women: A randomized, controlled trial. Neurology, 87(3), 263–270.

12 Signs You Have a Hormone Imbalance & How BHRT Can Help!

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Weight Gain? Low Sex Drive? No Energy? Natural Hormone Therapy May Help!

Women’s healthcare has indeed made significant strides since the 1800s when female patients were often subjected to dismissive diagnoses like “hysteria” or “the vapors.” Thankfully, recent advancements in medicine, coupled with societal progress, have brought about substantial improvements in how women’s health issues are addressed today.

However, unfortunately, many traditional doctors still continue to dismiss, misdiagnose, and mistreat various health concerns in female patients – particularly in older women. As a result, many women who suffer from low energy, weight gain, joint pain, and more are not properly diagnosed and treated.

But functional medicine doctors – like Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area – look at each patient as a whole person. This enables them to address the root causes of health concerns – rather than just treat the symptoms. And hormone imbalances are one of the top underlying causes of a wide variety of health issues and physical symptoms.

The good news is that by bringing the body’s hormone levels back into balance, a functional medicine doctor can alleviate a wide array of problems – from weight gain to low libido, and much more. In this article Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area explores 12 of the most common signs that may indicate you are suffering from a hormone imbalance.  

Top 12 Signs of Hormone Imbalance

Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers, responsible for almost every one of the body’s essential functions, from sex drive to metabolism, and from weight gain to mood regulation, and much more. So, when hormones fall out of balance, it can lead to a wide range of health issues.

  1. Unexplained Weight Gain

Sudden weight gain or difficulty losing weight, especially around the midsection, can be indicative of hormone imbalances, particularly involving estrogen, testosterone, insulin, and thyroid hormones. Rebalancing hormones can both improve metabolism and reverse insulin resistance – assisting patients in losing weight and building muscle in place of fat.

  1. Fatigue and Low Energy

Persistent fatigue and low energy levels are not a “natural” result of aging. Instead, lack of energy may result from disruptions in adrenal hormones like cortisol, thyroid hormones, and others. Many patients at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area have regained youthful vitality and stamina with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).

  1. Mood Swings and Irritability

Hormonal fluctuations can also impact mood regulation. Balancing hormones through hormone replacement therapy can help stabilize emotions.

  1. Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances

Sleep disruptions can be linked to imbalances in estrogen, as well as melatonin, cortisol, and other sleep-regulating hormones. Dr. Hakim at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area offers a holistic approach that can improve rest by addressing underlying hormonal issues.

  1. Hair Loss

Perhaps no sign of hormone imbalance is more frustrating for a woman than hair loss. Thinning hair can be associated with imbalances in thyroid hormones, sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone), or even stress hormones.

But hair loss is NOT something you have to live with! A holistic evaluation and hormone therapy can help reverse hair loss – along with PRP scalp treatments and supplements available at Dr. Hakim’s online Wellevate Store.

  1. Digestive Issues

Many people do not realize that gastrointestinal problems like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea may be influenced by hormone imbalances. Holistic interventions at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area focuses on both gut health, including microbiome and intolerance testing, as well as hormonal balance.

  1. Loss of Sex Drive

Decline in sexual desire does not come just from “getting older” but actually results from the decline in sex hormone production, including testosterone and estrogen, that occurs with age. By restoring and optimizing declining hormonal levels patients with hormone therapy, patients can enjoy a satisfying sex life at any age.

  1. Irregular Menstrual Cycles

In women of childbearing age, hormone imbalances can also lead to irregular periods, heavy bleeding, or painful menstruation. Holistic management of menstrual problems may include hormonal optimization.

  1. Brain Fog and Memory Issues

Cognitive symptoms like brain fog and memory problems can result from hormonal imbalances. But recent research has revealed that hormone replacement therapy can help restore cognitive function. In fact, several clinical studies have even shown that restoring hormone balance can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease.   

  1. Skin Issues; From Breakouts to Wrinkles

Acne, dry skin, or other skin problems may be influenced by imbalances in sex hormone (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone). This is why adolescents, pregnant woman, and women going through menopause often experience breakouts – because their hormones are out of balance.

Similarly, menopausal women may start to experience aging skin that is wrinkling and sagging, due to hormone decline.  Hormone therapy to restore missing hormones can help the body produce the proteins it needs to build and repair skin – both reducing breakouts and keeping it hydrated and supple to ward of premature signs of again.

  1. Muscle Weakness and Joint Pain

Muscle weakness and joint pain can have many causes. But if arthritis, injury, and other culprits are ruled out, it may simply be a hormone imbalance that is the root cause of your discomfort.  Hormones are necessary to both fight inflammation and produce the lubrication that joints need to move without friction.

  1. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

Hot flashes are the quintessential symptom of menopause. Fluctuations in sex hormones, especially estrogen, can lead to hot flashes and night sweats.  

Addressing the Root Cause of Hormone Imbalance with BHRT

Understanding the root cause of these and many other common signs and symptoms requires a comprehensive approach to wellness. And recognizing the signs of hormone imbalance is crucial to overall health and vitality.

Diagnosing hormone imbalance is a pivotal step in Dr. Hakim’s holistic approach to wellness. Instead of merely treating the symptoms presented, she conducts thorough evaluations, which may include comprehensive blood tests to assess your unique, individual hormone levels, deficiencies, or imbalances.

Diagnosing and identifying hormonal imbalances allows her to create a personalized treatment plan that replaces and rebalances specific hormones with customized Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).

 Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones precisely mimic the structure of hormones naturally produced by the body. This similarity enables them to integrate seamlessly with the body’s existing hormone pathways, effectively restoring balance – more effectively and with fewer side effects.

Bioidentical hormone therapy can play a transformative role in alleviating the symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, including those mentioned earlier and many, many others. However, the benefits of BHRT also extend beyond symptom relief.

By addressing the root causes of hormone decline, bioidentical hormone therapy can help protect against various diseases and conditions. For women, this includes reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, and osteoporosis, among others. This holistic approach not only seeks to improve immediate well-being but also aims for long-term health and vitality.

Hormone Therapy (BHRT) | Oak Park, MI Area

At Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area, Dr. Hakim understands that true healing involves addressing the root causes of health issues, and she is committed to helping her patients achieve optimal balance, both in their bodies and in their lives.

Through a personalized approach that encompasses nutrition, lifestyle adjustments, and, when necessary, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, she can help you achieve hormonal harmony and improved health. If you are suffering from any of the symptoms listed above, schedule an appointment at Prosperity Health in the Oak Park, MI area, and take the first step to getting your quality of life back – so you can enjoy life at any age.

Hormone Therapy (BHRT) | Oak Park, MI Area: 248-997-4242

Treating Metabolic Syndrome: Reverse Weight Gain, Heart Disease, Diabetes & More

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Naturally Treating Metabolic Syndrome: Lose Weight Gain, Reverse Heart Disease & More

Many patients come to Prosperity Health in Royal Oak because they are facing more and more health issues as they get older – and they are finally at a place where they are ready to take their life back and live with wellness and vitality “before it’s too late.”

Weight gain, heart disease, cholesterol issues, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes – these are common health concerns that many American men and women face. But these are NOT just natural or normal effects of aging! What many people do not realize is that these seemingly unrelated conditions can often be interconnected and part of a cluster of diseases known as metabolic syndrome.

Dr. Nishath Hakim of Prosperity Health in the Royal Oak, MI area is dedicated to diagnosing and treating metabolic syndrome comprehensively, addressing not just its individual components but the underlying causes as well. She helps her patients take control of their total health – so they can prevent or reverse disease and live life to the fullest at every age.

What Is Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is not a single disease but a collection of medical conditions that tend to occur together. The presence of three or more of these conditions in an individual can indicate metabolic syndrome.

Abdominal Obesity

Abdominal obesity, also known as visceral fat accumulation, is a condition characterized by an excessive build-up of fat around the belly. This condition is closely linked to metabolic syndrome and is often considered one of its central components.

The accumulation of fat in the abdominal area can lead to an increase in waist circumference and contributes to a higher risk of various health issues. Abdominal obesity is typically caused by a combination of factors, including poor dietary choices, a sedentary lifestyle, hormonal imbalances, and genetics. High levels of visceral fat are associated with insulin resistance, inflammation, and the release of harmful substances into the bloodstream, all of which contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome and its associated health risks.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition that often goes hand in hand with metabolic syndrome. It involves elevated blood pressure levels, which can strain the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Hypertension is closely related to metabolic syndrome because several factors associated with the syndrome can contribute to high blood pressure. These factors include insulin resistance, which can impair blood vessel function, excessive abdominal fat, and hormonal imbalances that affect blood pressure regulation. The chronic inflammation associated with metabolic syndrome can also damage blood vessels, making them less flexible and more prone to constricting, which further raises blood pressure.

High Blood Sugar (Insulin Resistance) & Type 2 Diabetes

High blood sugar, often linked to insulin resistance, is a central component of metabolic syndrome and plays a pivotal role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells become less responsive to the hormone insulin, which is essential for regulating blood sugar levels. As a result, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

Over time, this can progress to pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. The relationship between high blood sugar and metabolic syndrome is bidirectional, as each condition exacerbates the other. High blood sugar contributes to the development of metabolic syndrome, and the presence of metabolic syndrome makes it more challenging for the body to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Therefore, addressing insulin resistance is crucial in preventing both metabolic syndrome and diabetes.

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels, characterized by elevated triglycerides and low HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, are common features of metabolic syndrome. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the bloodstream, and high levels can increase the risk of heart disease. Low HDL cholesterol, often referred to as “good” cholesterol, is associated with reduced cardiovascular protection.

In metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance and other underlying factors lead to dyslipidemia, an abnormal lipid profile characterized by high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol. Insulin resistance impairs the body’s ability to properly regulate lipids, resulting in increased triglyceride production and decreased HDL cholesterol clearance. These lipid abnormalities contribute to atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries, and a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.

Diagnosing Metabolic Syndrome

Dr. Hakim at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak diagnoses metabolic syndrome with a holistic “whole person” approach that involves assessing multiple factors, including waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting glucose levels, triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol levels.

Rather than just treat each individual disease separately, Dr. Hakim employs a thorough and comprehensive evaluation process to identify and confirm the presence of metabolic syndrome – so she can treat the underlying problems.

Treating and Reversing Metabolic Syndrome

Lifestyle Changes to Treat (and Reverse) Metabolic Syndrome

Addressing the underlying causes of metabolic syndrome through lifestyle changes and, in some cases, hormone therapy, can help manage hypertension and reduce the risk of heart disease, as well as reverse insulin resistance and inflammation that contributes to the development of type 2 diabetes and other life-threatening medical conditions.

The good news is that metabolic syndrome is often preventable and reversible through lifestyle modifications. Dr. Hakim will work with patients to help them adopt a holistic approach that includes:

  • Healthy Eating: Emphasizing a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and vegetables.
  • Regular Physical Activity: Incorporating exercise into daily routines to improve fitness levels and manage weight.
  • Stress Management: Employing stress reduction techniques to help manage cortisol levels and mitigate the effects of chronic stress.
  • Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking, if applicable, to reduce cardiovascular risks.

Hormone Therapy to Treat & Reverse Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a complex condition with multiple contributing factors, including hormonal imbalances. Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in the Royal Oak, MI area recognizes the importance of addressing these underlying hormonal issues in the treatment and reversal of metabolic syndrome.

One highly effective approach Dr. Nishath Hakim employs to treat and reverse metabolic syndrome is the use of 100% natural Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) pellet therapy. BHRT involves the use of hormones that are identical in molecular structure to those naturally produced by the body.

BHRT pellet therapy helps address hormonal imbalances that can contribute to metabolic syndrome, such as insulin resistance and abnormal cortisol levels. By optimizing hormone levels, patients can experience improved metabolic function, enhanced weight management, and a reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Several recent research studies have shed light on the inextricable relationship between hormonal fluctuations/decline and metabolic syndrome. These studies show that hormonal imbalances, including disruptions in insulin, cortisol, and sex hormones, can exacerbate the components of metabolic syndrome, such as insulin resistance, and high blood pressure. The research also shows that BHRT can positively influence lipid profiles, improving triglyceride levels and increasing HDL cholesterol.

BHRT pellet therapy, offered by Dr. Hakim in Royal Oak, provides a targeted and personalized solution to rebalance hormones, addressing the root causes of metabolic syndrome.  Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy is a form of hormone therapy that uses hormones identical in structure to those naturally produced by the body. This precision allows for optimized hormonal levels, which can positively impact metabolic function. For instance, in cases of insulin resistance, BHRT can help improve insulin sensitivity, promoting better blood sugar control. Moreover, hormone therapy can address cortisol imbalances, helping to manage stress and reduce its harmful effects on metabolic health.

Hormone Therapy for Metabolic Syndrome | Royal Oak, MI

At Prosperity Health, Dr. Hakim tailors her treatments to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring a personalized approach to metabolic syndrome treatment. By addressing both the lifestyle issues and the hormonal imbalances associated with metabolic syndrome, she offers a promising avenue to not only manage but potentially reverse this complex condition.

Dr. Hakim’s commitment is to holistic and effective treatments that promote overall health and well-being for her patients in the Royal Oak, MI area – helping patients regain their health and vitality, and reducing the risks associated with the complex cluster of metabolic syndrome diseases.

Metabolic Syndrome | Royal Oak, MI: 248-997-4242

Are Osteoporosis Medications Dangerous?

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The Truth About Osteoporosis Medications & Natural Alternatives

Osteoporosis is called a “silent disease” because many women (and many men) don’t realize they have it until it’s too late and they break a bone. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, and another 44 million have low bone density, putting them at risk for life altering fractures and even death.

Every year, there are an estimated 2 million fractures due to osteoporosis in the United States. This means that 1 in 2 women and 1 in 4 men over the age of 50 will experience an osteoporotic fracture in their lifetime. In addition to causing pain and disability, osteoporosis related broken bones can also increase the risk of premature death. For example, hip fractures are associated with a 20% increased risk of death within the first year after the fracture, and a 2- to 3 times increase of risk of death in the subsequent years.

Obviously, these statistics highlight the importance of preventing and treating osteoporosis to reduce the risk of fractures and associated complications and death. And osteoporosis medications are commonly used to prevent fractures and maintain bone density. However, there have been some very valid concerns about the safety of these osteoporosis medications and their side effects.

In this article, integrative medicine specialist Dr. Nishath Hakim at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak explores the risks and side effects of the most common osteoporosis drugs – and offers a natural alternative that can strengthen bones without harsh drugs for many patients.

Bisphosphonates Osteoporosis Medications (Fosamax, Boniva)

Bisphosphonates are the most commonly prescribed drugs for osteoporosis. They work by slowing down the breakdown of bone tissue, which helps to maintain bone density. Some common bisphosphonates include alendronate (Fosamax), risedronate (Actonel), and ibandronate (Boniva).

However, bisphosphonates have been associated with some potential side effects – some of them quite serious.

Bisphosphonates can commonly cause gastrointestinal issues such as heartburn, nausea, and abdominal pain. However, much more seriously, Bisphosphonates have been associated with a rare but serious condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw, which is a painful condition that can cause the jaw bone to break down.

Long-term use of bisphosphonates has also been associated with a rare type of fracture in the thigh bone, called atypical femoral fractures.

Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators Osteoporosis Medications (Evista)

Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are a type of osteoporosis medication that mimics the effects of estrogen on bone tissue. Estrogen is a hormone that helps to maintain bone density in women. The most common SERMs is raloxifene (Evista).

Because SERMS such as Evista “imitate” estrogen, they can cause hot flashes and other uncomfortable menopausal symptoms.

However, SERMs have also been associated with some potential serious side effects. SERMs can increase the risk of blood clots, which can be serious or even life-threatening. Some studies have also suggested that SERMs may increase the risk of endometrial cancer, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the uterus.

Calcitonin Osteoporosis Medications (Fortical, Miacalcin)

Calcitonin is a hormone that helps to regulate calcium levels in the body. It is sometimes used to treat osteoporosis, although its effectiveness is debated. Some common calcitonin medications include Miacalcin and Fortical.

Calcitonin has been associated with some potential mild side effects, including nasal irritation because it is administered through a nasal spray. More seriously, some studies have suggested that long-term use of calcitonin may increase the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer.

Teriparatide Osteoporosis Medications (Forteo)

Teriparatide (Forteo) is a medication that is similar to a naturally occurring hormone in the body called parathyroid hormone. It works by stimulating bone formation, which helps to maintain bone density.

Teriparatide has been associated with nausea, dizziness, and other gastrointestinal issues. But, of more concern, some animal studies have suggested that teriparatide may increase the risk of bone cancer, although more research is needed to confirm this.

BHRT the Natural Alternative to Osteoporosis Medications

At Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, Dr, Nishath Hakim offers Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) which can prevent and reverse osteoporosis naturally in the right candidates, without the dangerous side effects of harsh osteoporosis medications.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) is an alternative treatment for osteoporosis that replaces missing hormones with bioidentical hormones that are identical in structure to the hormones produced by the human body. BHRT is derived from natural sources, such as plants, and are believed to be safer and more effective than traditional hormone replacement therapy.

Hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone play a vital role in bone health. But as women age and go through menopause, their hormone levels decrease, which can lead to a loss of bone density. Bioidentical HRT has been proven in clinical studies to prevent and even reverse osteoporosis by increasing bone density and reducing the risk of fractures

Bioidentical estrogen, in particular, has been shown to improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. It does this by increasing the production of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building new bone tissue, and reducing the production of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue.

Bioidentical progesterone has also been shown to have similar bone-protective effects. Progesterone stimulates the production of new bone tissue and enhances the mineralization of bone, making it stronger and less prone to fractures.

Bioidentical testosterone has also been shown to be beneficial for bone health, particularly in men. Testosterone is essential for the development and maintenance of bone tissue, and as men age and their testosterone levels decrease, they become more susceptible to osteoporosis.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) has fewer side effects than traditional hormone replacement therapy. Unlike synthetic osteoporosis medications, bioidentical hormones (BHRT) are identical in structure to the hormones produced by the human body, which makes them more easily metabolized and less likely to cause adverse reactions. In addition, bioidentical hormones are customized to the individual’s needs, which means that the dose can be adjusted to achieve optimal results.

Natural Osteoporosis Treatment & Prevention | Royal Oak

While osteoporosis medications can be effective in preventing fractures and maintaining bone density, they are not without potential risks and serious (even life-threatening) side effects. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) naturally treats the underlying cause of bone loss – preventing and reversing osteoporosis – without the dangerous side effects of synthetic medications.

Don’t be one of the millions of Americans who suffer a life-altering bone fracture. Schedule an appointment at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak to discuss the potential benefits of BHRT and other natural osteoporosis prevention methods. Dr. Hakim can help you make an informed decision about the best treatments to keep your bones healthy now and for the rest of your life.

Osteoporosis Prevention Doctor | Royal Oak: 248.997.4242

 

Restore Your Sex Life with Testosterone Replacement Therapy

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TRT Treats Low Testosterone & Restores Libido & Performance

Low testosterone is a common issue that affects millions of men worldwide. Testosterone is a vital hormone that plays a key role in male sexual function, muscle mass, energy levels, and mood. When testosterone levels decline, men can experience a range of negative symptoms, including low libido, sexual dysfunction, and decreased physical performance.

However, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) – now available at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI – can help improve testosterone levels, alleviate these symptoms, and restore sexual performance and enjoyment!

In this article, the men’s sexual health experts at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI take a closer look at what causes low testosterone in men, how it negatively impacts male sexual drive and performance, and how HRT testosterone replacement therapy can help improve male libido and sexual performance.

What Causes Low Testosterone in Men?

There are a variety of factors that can contribute to low testosterone levels in men. As men age, testosterone production naturally declines, leading to symptoms of low testosterone. Other factors that can contribute to low testosterone include obesity, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and certain medications. Chronic stress and lack of physical activity can also contribute to low testosterone levels, as can certain medical conditions such as hypogonadism and pituitary gland disorders.

Low Testosterone & Male Sexual Performance

Low testosterone levels can have a profound impact on male sexual function, drive, and performance. When testosterone levels are low, men may experience a decrease in libido, or sexual desire, which can lead to decreased sexual activity and relationship issues. Low testosterone can also cause sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction (difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection). Obviously, these symptoms can be very distressing for men and can lead to decreased self-esteem, confidence, and relationship problems.

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a treatment option for men with low testosterone levels. By increasing testosterone levels, TRT can help improve libido, sexual function, and physical performance, as well as alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

One of the primary benefits of TRT is its ability to improve libido and sexual function. By increasing testosterone levels, testosterone replacement therapy can help restore a man’s sexual desire and improve his ability to perform sexually. This can lead to increased sexual activity and improved relationships. In addition, testosterone replacement therapy can help improve erectile dysfunction, allowing men to achieve and maintain an erection more easily.

In addition to improving libido and sexual function, testosterone replacement therapy can also help improve physical performance, stamina, and energy in general. Testosterone plays a key role in muscle mass, strength, and energy levels. By increasing testosterone levels, TRT can help increase muscle mass, improve strength, and boost energy levels, leading to improved athletic performance and overall health.

Why Testosterone Therapy Pellets Are the Best Method to Treat Low T

Clinical research has shown that erection improvements from most methods of testosterone replacement therapy do not last long term. For TRT to be effective, experts agree that there must be consistent, ongoing testosterone replacement.

In addition to being inconvenient, twice-a-day testosterone pills, messy hormone creams, and weekly hormone injections, provide inconsistent delivery of testosterone that results in a roller coaster of testosterone ups and downs. Especially if a guy forgets, skips, or misses a dose – which is very easy to do.

But subdermal testosterone replacement pellets solve this problem! Tiny time released pellets that are inserted just twice a year under the skin constantly and consistently release the required dosages of testosterone. A single TRT pellet insertion lasts up to six months – and keeps a man’s hormone levels stable and balanced just like the body does!

Additionally, testosterone replacement pellets are not “one-size-fits all”. They are custom dosed and compounded for each individual patient, based on their blood work, to ensure that the exact dosages to restore your hormones levels is used. Additionally, the BioTe hormone pellets offered at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI are ‘bioidentical’ – meaning that they exactly replicate the molecular structure of the hormones produced by the body. So, they are not only more effective, but they are also much safer than synthetic hormones, as well as free of many of the side effects of lab-created hormones.

And, because BioTe time-released bioidentical hormone pellet therapy only requires a single insertion every six months, it eliminates the daily hassle of pills and topical creams and/or the pain of weekly injections.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Low T & ED | Royal Oak

If you have been experiencing a decrease in your sex drive or difficulties achieving or maintaining an erectile, schedule an appointment at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI. Dr. Fakih will conduct thorough bloodwork and determine if BioTe testosterone replacement pellets should be added to your treatment plan to help restore an active and satisfying sex life.

Low testosterone is a common issue that affects millions of men worldwide, leading to decreased libido and erection problems. But with the help of BioTe testosterone replacement therapy, you can restore your testosterone levels, improve your sexual and physical performance, and enjoy improved overall health, vitality, and well-being.

Low Testosterone Treatment | Royal Oak: 248-997-4242

Stop Osteoporosis Naturally with Hormone Replacement Therapy

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How HRT Naturally Prevents & Reverses Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a debilitating condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It’s a disease that weakens bones and makes them more susceptible to fractures. With age, the risk of developing osteoporosis increases, making it crucial to take steps to prevent it from happening. One of the most effective treatments for osteoporosis is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).

In this article, the women’s health experts at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI explore why HRT is the best treatment and preventative for osteoporosis, including what women’s health organizations have to say about it.

Osteoporosis: The Silent Killer

Osteoporosis is a serious condition that can lead to serious consequences, including broken bones. Every year, millions of people suffer from broken bones due to osteoporosis. These fractures can be debilitating and even life-threatening, especially in older adults. In fact, the injury and mortality rates from broken bones due to osteoporosis are alarmingly high.

According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 will suffer from an osteoporotic fracture. This means that millions of people are at risk of suffering from broken bones due to osteoporosis each year. These fractures can result in severe pain, limited mobility, and even death in some cases. In fact, the mortality rate for hip fractures due to osteoporosis is alarmingly high, with as many as 20% of patients dying within one year of their fracture.

Broken bones due to osteoporosis can also have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life. For example, a broken hip can result in limited mobility, making it difficult to perform daily activities such as walking, bathing, and getting dressed. In addition, the recovery period from a broken bone can be long and difficult, with many patients requiring rehabilitation and physical therapy. Furthermore, the emotional impact of broken bones can be devastating, leading to depression, anxiety, and decreased quality of life. These statistics highlight the need for effective treatments and preventatives for osteoporosis, in order to reduce the injury and mortality rates from broken bones.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Prevents Osteoporosis

Several women’s health organizations have recommended the use of Hormone Replacement Therapy to prevent osteoporosis. The North American Menopause Society (NAMS), for example, has stated that HRT is the best treatment for osteoporosis. NAMS recommends HRT for women who are at high risk of osteoporosis and have a low risk of heart disease and breast cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also endorsed HRT as an effective treatment for osteoporosis.

Hormone Replacement Therapy is a treatment that replaces hormones that are lost during the menopause transition. During this time, women experience a decline in the production of hormones such as estrogen, which is responsible for maintaining strong bones. HRT works by replenishing the hormones that are lost, which helps to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. This is because estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining healthy bones. When there is a decline in estrogen levels, bones become brittle and more susceptible to fractures. HRT helps to prevent this from happening by replenishing the hormones that are lost.

Why HRT is Better Than Medications to Prevent Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis medications can be effective in preventing bone loss, but they also come with many serious risks and side effects. It’s important to be aware of these dangers and side effects in order to make an informed decision about your treatment options.

Some of the most commonly prescribed osteoporosis medications include Boniva, Fosamax, and others. One of the potential dangers of osteoporosis medications is the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. These medications can irritate the esophagus and stomach, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, these side effects can lead to ulcers, esophageal erosions, and other serious complications.

Another potential danger of osteoporosis medications is the risk of atypical femur fractures. These fractures can occur spontaneously and without a known cause, and they can be difficult to treat. In some cases, they may require surgery, which can be painful and lead to a long recovery period.

In addition to these dangers, osteoporosis medications can also cause other side effects, such as muscle, joint, and back pain. Some people may also experience headaches, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping.

However, 100% natural Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – now available at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI – is not known to come with any of these side effects.

HRT: The Safe Way to Prevent Osteoporosis

In addition to being an effective treatment for osteoporosis, Hormone Replacement Therapy is also extremely safe. In the past, there were concerns about the safety of HRT, but these have been largely addressed. Recent studies have shown that HRT is safe when taken at the right dose and for the right amount of time. Women who are considering HRT should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor, and make an informed decision based on their own health and medical history.

It’s important to note that HRT is not recommended for all women. Women who have a history of breast cancer, blood clots, or stroke should not use HRT. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should also avoid HRT. Women who have a family history of breast cancer should also discuss the risks and benefits of HRT with their doctor.

Osteoporosis Prevention with HRT | Royal Oak, MI

100% natural Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – now available at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI – is the best treatment and preventative for osteoporosis. It’s a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and has been recommended by several women’s health organizations.

If you have had a DEXA scan showing bone loss, or you are a woman who is at high risk of osteoporosis, schedule an appointment with Dr. Fakih at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI to discuss the benefits of HRT for helping to treat, prevent or even reverse osteoporosis.

HRT is a valuable tool for maintaining strong bones and reducing the risk of osteoporosis that can help women take control of their health, to ensure that they remain strong and healthy for years to come.

HRT Osteoporosis Treatment | Royal Oak: 248.997.4242

Menopause Hair Loss? HRT Can Help!

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HRT Can Stop & Even Reverse Menopause Hair Loss

The hormonal changes during menopause can lead to many frustrating and uncomfortable side effects. However, perhaps no symptom of menopause is more frustrating than thinning hair. Decreased levels of estrogen due to menopause can impact hair growth and cause a woman’s hair to become thin and sparse.

Estrogen plays a role in maintaining the growth phase of the hair cycle, and when levels decrease, the hair growth phase is shortened, leading to thinner and weaker hair. Additionally, lower levels of estrogen can lead to an increase in the levels of androgens, such as testosterone, which can also contribute to female hair loss.

The great news is that 100% natural Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI can help replace missing hormones and alleviate many of the symptoms of menopause – including hair loss in many cases!

How Do I Know if My Hair Loss is Due to Menopause?

One way to determine if your hair loss is due to menopause is to track the timing of your hair loss in relation to your menstrual cycle and menopausal symptoms. If your hair loss began around the same time as your menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and irregular periods, it is more likely that it is related to hormonal changes associated with menopause.

Additionally, patterns of hair loss can also indicate the cause. Menopausal women tend to experience diffuse hair loss, which is hair thinning all over the scalp, whereas other causes of hair loss, such as androgenic alopecia (female pattern baldness), can result in a more specific pattern of hair loss, such as a receding hairline or thinning at the crown.

However, the best way to determine if your hair loss may be due to menopause is to undergo hormone level testing at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI. We offer blood testing to evaluate your hormone levels, as well as to check for any underlying medical condition and rule out other causes of hair loss.

It’s important to note that hair loss can also be caused by a combination of factors, such as genetics, age, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions or medications. So, hormone level blood testing at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI is important to definitively diagnose insufficient hormone levels.

Can Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) help menopausal hair loss?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help menopausal hair loss by replacing the hormones that are lost during menopause. Specifically, HRT can help to raise estrogen levels, which can help to prolong the growth phase of the hair cycle and reduce hair loss.

HRT is often prescribed to women who are experiencing hot flashes, night sweats, and other symptoms of menopause, and it can also be used to treat other menopause-related conditions, such as osteoporosis. But HRT can also be effective at slowing, stopping, and in some cases even reversing hair loss due to menopause.

Other Symptoms of Hormone Deficiency that HRT Can Help

To determine if you have a hormone deficiency, schedule an appointment at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI where Dr. Fakih can conduct blood tests to measure the levels of hormones in your body.

In addition to hair loss, HRT can help many other signs and symptoms of menopausal hormone deficiency including:

  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Sleep problems
  • Brain Fog
  • Hot flashes or night sweats
  • Low libido
  • Bone loss
  • Decreased muscle mass

Why HRT Is Better than Other Hair Loss Treatments

If a hormone deficiency is detected, HRT naturally corrects the underlying problem itself, without the dangers and side effects of harsh synthetic medications.

Both topical and oral medicines can promote female hair growth, but they have a number of unfavorable side effects. Breast sensitivity, a decline in libido, and excessive hair growth in unwelcome areas are all potential side effects of finasteride (Propecia or Proscar). Unwanted face and/or body hair, fainting, chest discomfort, limb swelling, weight gain, exhaustion, and trouble breathing are all side effects of minoxidil (Rogaine).

In addition to HRT, Dr. Fakih at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak may be able to prescribe dietary supplements and shampoos that work with your body – naturally – to help halt hair loss and encourage hair regeneration in menopausal women.

HRT for Menopause Hair Loss | Royal Oak, MI

If you are a woman who is experiencing thinning hair, it may be due to the hormonal decline of perimenopause or menopause. The good news is that you CAN do something about this!

The hormonal changes during menopause can lead to decreased levels of estrogen, which can impact hair growth and many other aspects of health and well-being. But HRT can restore hormone balance and alleviate many of these problems – including thinning hair.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Fakih at Prosperity Health in Royal Oak for an evaluation and testing to see if HRT is right for you!

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) | Royal Oak: 248.997.4242

Mental Health Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy

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Hormone Replacement Therapy Offers Benefits for Mental Health

Menopause is notorious for causing “mood swings” in women. But recent clinical research has also determined that menopause can worsen or cause a relapse of mental health problems that existed before menopause.

Fortunately, women do not have to suffer with many of the debilitating side-effects of menopause anymore, thanks to advancements in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT).  Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI is proud to be a provider of 100% natural BioTe BHRT pellets that are safer, more effective, and more convenient than previous methods of hormone therapy.

One aspect of menopause that bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can help dramatically is women’s mental health. This is wonderful news for menopausal women for many reasons. While psychiatric medications can indeed help relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and many other mental illnesses, these strong drugs often have unpleasant, dangerous, long-term side-effects.

However, physicians are increasingly recognizing that restoring women’s hormone balance with BHRT during menopause can naturally improve mental health –   even sometimes eliminating the need for psychiatric meds – without side effects.

Menopause Mental Health & Hormone Replacement Therapy

Endocrinology is the study of hormones and how they affect all of the systems of the body. And, of course, psychiatrists and neurologists are doctors who study and treat disorders of the brain. In recent years, scientists have combined these three medical disciplines into a field called “psycho-neuroendocrinology” – which is the study of the role that hormones play in regulating mental health.

Scientists and doctors in this exciting field of medicine have discovered that by balancing certain hormones, hormone replacement therapy can offer a natural approach to improving mental health. In other words, by regulating and restoring balance to the hormones that affect the brain, HRT can assist in returning the brain and mind to optimal functioning in many cases.

Menopause Hormone Replacement Therapy for Depression

Scientists have long known that there is a link between depression and menopause. And research has shown that female patients with a history of clinical depression and/or anxiety are more likely to experience a relapse or worsening of clinical depression or anxiety during menopause.

Studies show that a significant number of females – about 18% who are in early perimenopause and 38% who are in late perimenopause – will experience symptoms of depression.1 Recent medical studies have also suggested that females who had severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) when they were younger, and/or those who experienced postpartum depression, often have more severe mood swings during perimenopause.

But clinical research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Psychiatry2 found that hormone replacement therapy reduced the risk of menopause during depression by almost half. After receiving HRT for a year, 32% of the perimenopausal female patients treated with a placebo experienced clinically significant depression, while only 17% of the women in the study treated with hormone replacement therapy experienced serious symptoms of depression.

So, while menopause itself does not cause psychological disorders, the hormonal declines and imbalances of perimenopause and menopause can aggravate or put a woman at higher risk of a relapse of many mental health disorders. And research shows that rebalancing these declining hormones with HRT can help alleviate this risk of relapse.

Menopause Hormone Replacement Therapy for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder (previously called manic depression) is a mental illness that causes extreme mood swings, characterized by emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression, hopelessness, loss of interest in life). And menopause has also been shown in clinical studies to increase symptoms of bipolar disorder.

During menopause, women who are afflicted with bipolar disorder report significantly more depressive episodes. Researchers believe that this is probably directly attributable to the decrease in the hormone estrogen, which happens to all women during menopause as they reach the end of their reproductive years.  Research studies have revealed that women with bipolar disorder are likely more sensitive to hormonal shifts during menopause.

Menopause Hormone Replacement Therapy for Schizophrenia

Psychotic disorders refer to those severe mental conditions that cause abnormal thinking and perceptions – including delusions, paranoia, hallucinations, and losing touch with reality. Medical research has also shown that a decline in estrogen levels during menopause can also trigger or exacerbate some psychotic conditions, including schizophrenia.

It is interesting to note that schizophrenia typically manifests during young adulthood, but there is also often a second surge of schizophrenia in women during menopause. And, somewhat less frequently, perimenopause (the period leading up to menopause) may also significantly increase the risk of an initial onset of schizophrenic psychosis.

Psychiatrist have long known that female patients with pre-existing chronic schizophrenia often undergo a deterioration of their mental state and frequently exhibit a greater demand for psychiatric medications during menopause.

Hormone Replacement Therapy for Reducing Alzheimer’s Risk

Recent trailblazing research has also found a link between hormone decline and Alzheimer’s disease in women (but not in men). Researchers discovered that accelerated biological aging is often associated with females who have a certain genetic Alzheimer’s risk factor – but that hormone replacement therapy, seems to slow down this aging, and in the process also decelerates the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

This groundbreaking research provides important evidence of the crucial role hormones play in mental functioning. By determining that estrogen therapy slows aging and lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in women with certain genetic predispositions, physicians may be able to stave off cognitive decline with hormone replacement therapy in some patients.

Menopause Hormone Replacement Therapy for Better Mental Health

Hormones help regulate every function of a woman’s body – including the functioning of the brain. And yet, the hormone decline of menopause is an unavoidable fact of life. As she reaches the end of her reproductive cycles, every woman will experience declining, imbalanced, or insufficient hormone levels.

And, in addition to the hot flashes, night sweats, and decreased libido of menopause, many female patients with preexisting mental illness may find their psychiatric symptoms worsening. But while the potential role of hormone replacement therapy in treating mental conditions during menopause still being explored, the prospects appear very promising.

In many cases, restoring balance to the body through hormone replacement therapy may prove to be more effective – with fewer side effects – than harsh psychiatric medications with dangerous or unpleasant reactions.

Hormone Replacement Therapy | Royal Oak

Prosperity Health in Royal Oak, MI offers BioTe® hormone replacement pellets that can help restore your body and mind to optimal balance – with NO daily pills, NO painful weekly shots, and NO messy creams. A single pellet insertion can last several months. And because BioTe utilizes bioidentical hormones it is safer, more effective, and more natural than lab-created synthetics, with fewer side-effects and risks.

If you are menopausal or perimenopausal woman in the Royal Oak are who is experiencing mood swings, “brain fog,” memory loss, trouble concentrating, or an increase in psychiatric symptoms, schedule a consultation at Prosperity Health today!

Royal Oak Hormone Replacement Therapy: 248.997.4242

1 As Menopause Nears, Be Aware It Can Trigger Depression and Anxiety, too; NPR.com. January 16, 2020.

2 Transdermal estradiol shows promise in treating and preventing perimenopausal depression; JAMA Psychiatry, online. Susan Girdler, Ph.D., Hadine Joffe, M.D., et. Al.; Jan. 10, 2018.

 

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as general information only and is not intended to be used as medical advice. The benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are well documented through clinical research. However, Prosperity Health is not representing that hormone replacement therapy is a treatment or cure for any disease. Nor is HRT right for every patient. Only your physician can determine if hormone replacement therapy may be an appropriate part of your personal healthcare plan, based on your age, overall health, risk factors, and lifestyle.