acupuncture

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone imbalance of female sex hormones, such as too little estrogen, and too many androgen hormones. PCOS causes a disruption in regular menstrual cycles, increased risk of endometrial cancer, infertility, increased growth of facial hair, decreased breast size, and deepening of the voice.

In my last post, I addressed Cynthia’s question about insomnia. It is interesting that she also asked about hypertension and anxiety. These are often all symptoms of a common problem—hypoglycemia—rather than separate illnesses.

Even though I crave caffeine, carbohydrates, and chocolate right before my period, these foods make me feel bloated and aggravate my cramps. So to avoid the kind of aches and pains that can leave me feeling sapped for days, I make it a point to eat especially well during that time—lots of big salads and antioxidant-packed smoothies.

Actually, it’s not unusual for men in their mid-40s to experience a swelling of the prostate, which is what BPH is. Nearly half of all men in their 50s have the condition, and more than 80 percent of octogenarians suffer from it. Blame a rise in dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a converted form of testosterone, the levels of which increase with age.