Archive for August 18, 2011

Do I need to be optimized? One patient’s journey through hormone therapy.

When I first heard about bio-identical hormones I immediately thought of some science fiction process, that didn’t appeal to me at all. Then I began hearing more and more about hormone optimization and how it could help you have more energy, feel better, sleep better, increase your libido, and the list goes on.  I decided I could use all of those things, but is 38 too young? I remembered my grandmother taking her hormones, that’s not what I needed, right? I did some research, and the first thing I realized is that everyone seemed to be able to give me a description, but no one was explaining the process. Was this something I could benefit from? Was I too young? Was it going to require injections or cleanses? I decided I would schedule a consultation with Dr. Allen at Deseret to get a few of my questions answered. After the consultation, I couldn’t wait to get started.

First things first!

The first step was to have blood work done and get a bone density scan, which measures bone strength and can be used to detect osteoporosis. The blood work would tell them exactly if and where I was lacking in nutrients, and if I had any other issues that should be addressed; standard in examining one’s health. A bone density scan might sound strange, but it was easy and completely noninvasive. Not to mention I was able to get it done right next to Dr. Allen’s office so I didn’t have to drive all over Arizona. Same with the blood work. So far this process was a breeze, but I couldn’t wait to get my results back and find out what’s next.

Find Hidden Food Allergies

About 60% of all undiagnosed symptoms are due to food allergies according to James Breneman, MD, former Chairman of the Food Allergy Committee of the American College of Allergy (now the American College of Allergy and Immunology).

When foods become targets of a person’s immune system;
*Delayed symptoms can occur that are nearly impossible
to link with a source and may affect any part of the body.
*They may exacerbate existing conditions.
*They can become repeatedly problematic

The common ailments associated with Food Allergies are:

AD(H)D/Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Alcoholism or other Addictions
Anxiety
Arthritis/Rheumatoid Arthritis

Asthma
Candidacies
Chronic Fatigue & Fibromyalgia
Chronic Infections
Colitis or Irritable Bowel/
Constipation/Diarrhea
Cravings/Eating disorders
Depression/Irritability

Mood swings, Tension
Fatigue
Fluid Retention
Foggy brain, Poor Concentration
Gas, Bloating
Gout
Headache or Migraines
Hives
Hyperactivity
Hypoglycemia
Irritable Bowel, Leaky
Gut Syndrome
Leaky Bladder
Multiple Sclerosis
Obsessive Compulsive
Disorders
PMS
Poor Absorption, vitamin/mineral deficiency
Seizures
Skin problems (acne,eczema, rashes)
Tourette’s Syndrome
Weight Gain

You can get tested today for delayed hypersensitivity reactions. Delayed (lgG) responses may cause delayed symptoms, such as joint or muscle pain, chronic headaches, fatigue, eczema, and psoriasis. Since lgG reactions often occur hours of days after particular foods are consumed, correlating symptoms can be difficult. The reactions can be subtle or severe, and may lead to chronic (long –term) symptoms and chronic degenerative conditions. This lab test requires only a small amount of blood taken form a finger-prick and is very easy to do. Something to consider.