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The menstrual cycle, a natural and essential part of a woman’s reproductive life, can be a source of both wonder and frustration. While it’s a sign of health and fertility, it can also bring about uncomfortable symptoms and disruptions to daily life.

Understanding your menstrual cycle, recognizing common issues, and knowing how to manage them can empower you to take control of your menstrual health and improve your overall well-being.

Decoding the Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is a complex series of hormonal changes. It typically lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from woman to woman and even from cycle to cycle.

The cycle is divided into four main phases:

1. Menstruation:This is the first day of your period, marked by the shedding of the uterine lining. Bleeding typically lasts 3-7 days.
2. Follicular Phase:The follicular phase starts on the first day of your period and ends with ovulation. During this time, the pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
3. Ovulation:This is the release of a mature egg from the ovary, typically occurring around day 14 of the cycle.
4. Luteal Phase:The luteal phase begins after ovulation and lasts until the beginning of your next period. The ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone, a hormone that prepares the uterus for a possible pregnancy. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, the corpus luteum breaks down, progesterone levels drop, and the uterus sheds its lining, starting a new cycle.

Common Menstrual Issues

While the menstrual cycle is a natural process, many women experience issues that can cause discomfort and disrupt their lives.

These include:

• Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods):Cramps, lower back pain, and abdominal pain are common during menstruation. These symptoms are often caused by prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause the uterus to contract.
• Irregular Periods:Irregular periods can involve variations in the length of the cycle, the amount of bleeding, or the timing of menstruation. They can be caused by hormonal imbalances, stress, certain medical conditions, or lifestyle factors.
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS):PMS is a group of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days or weeks leading up to menstruation. Symptoms can include mood swings, irritability, bloating, breast tenderness, and fatigue.
• Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia):Heavy bleeding can interfere with daily activities and may indicate an underlying medical condition.
• Amenorrhea (Absent Periods):Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation. It can be caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, or medical conditions that affect hormone production.

Managing Menstrual Symptoms

While some menstrual discomfort is normal, there are various strategies for managing symptoms and improving your menstrual health.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve cramps and pain, and applying heat to the abdomen or lower back can also provide comfort. Lifestyle changes, such as exercising regularly, practicing stress management techniques like yoga or meditation, and eating a healthy diet, can help regulate your cycle and reduce symptoms.

For more severe menstrual issues, your doctor may recommend hormonal birth control, medications to regulate hormones, or surgery to address underlying conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.

Houston Physicians’ Hospital: Your Partner in Women’s Health

The physicians at Houston Physicians’ Hospital understand the importance of comprehensive women’s healthcare. They’re dedicated to providing personalized care to women of all ages, including addressing menstrual health concerns.

If you’re experiencing menstrual problems or have any concerns about your menstrual health, you can learn more about our gynecological services here and then scroll to the bottom of the page to find a gynecologist who’s right for you.

The physicians at Houston Physicians’ Hospital also specialize in Hip Arthritis Treatments in Webster, TX, hip replacement surgery, back pain treatment, neck pain treatment, knee surgery, and more.

The human body is a remarkable machine capable of incredible feats of strength, agility, and endurance. But even the most finely tuned athletic bodies can experience unexpected challenges.

One such challenge, often whispered about in locker rooms and hushed online forums, is urinary incontinence. While it may not be a topic discussed openly, urinary incontinence is a common issue for athletes, particularly those engaged in high-impact sports.

Let’s break the silence surrounding this condition and explore not only how high-impact exercise can affect bladder control but also what athletes can do to regain confidence and continue pursuing their passions.

The Link Between High-Impact Exercise and Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence, the involuntary leakage of urine, occurs when the muscles and tissues that support the bladder and urethra weaken or become damaged.

High-impact exercises, such as running, jumping, and plyometrics, can put significant stress on the pelvic floor muscles, which are responsible for bladder control.

This repetitive stress can lead to:

• Weakening of the Pelvic Floor Muscles:The constant jarring and impact can overstretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles, making it harder to control the flow of urine.
• Increased Abdominal Pressure:High-impact activities generate increased pressure within the abdomen, which can put extra strain on the bladder and urethra.
• Urethral Hypermobility:In some cases, the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body, can become hypermobile, meaning it moves excessively during physical activity, increasing the risk of leakage.

Who Is at Risk?

While urinary incontinence can affect athletes of all levels, certain factors increase the risk.

• Type of Sport:Athletes participating in high-impact sports like running, gymnastics, basketball, volleyball, and tennis are at a higher risk.
• Intensity and Duration of Exercise:Higher intensity and longer duration workouts can exacerbate the stress on the pelvic floor.
• Previous Pregnancy and Childbirth:Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, making women more susceptible to incontinence, especially during high-impact activities.
• Obesity:Carrying excess weight puts additional strain on the pelvic floor muscles.
• Age:As we age, our muscles naturally weaken, including the pelvic floor muscles.

Recognizing the Types of Incontinence

Urinary incontinence in athletes often manifests as stress incontinence, where leakage occurs during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. However, other types of incontinence can also occur.

• Urge Incontinence:A sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary leakage.
• Mixed Incontinence:A combination of stress and urge incontinence.

Addressing the Issue

Many athletes suffer in silence, embarrassed or ashamed to discuss urinary incontinence. However, it’s important to remember that this is a common condition, and there are effective solutions available.

Seeking help from a healthcare professional, such as a urologist, urogynecologist, or pelvic floor physical therapist, is the first step toward regaining control.

Recommended Read: 3 Tips to Improve Your Bladder Health

Houston Physicians’ Hospital: Your Partners in Pelvic Health

If you’re an athlete struggling with urinary incontinence, don’t let it hold you back from pursuing your athletic goals.

The physicians at Houston Physicians’ Hospital, including an experienced urologist in Webster, TX, are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to help you regain control and confidence. Find a doctor who’s right for you.

 

The physicians at Surgical Hospital near NASA also specialize in treating neck pain, hip pain, knee pain, and shoulder pain.

Hearing is a precious sense that connects us to the world around us, allowing us to communicate, experience music, and enjoy the sounds of nature. However, hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide, impacting their quality of life and overall well-being.

Types of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can be categorized into three main types:

• Sensorineural Hearing Loss:This is the most common type of hearing loss, caused by damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve.
• Conductive Hearing Loss:This type of hearing loss occurs when sound waves are blocked from reaching the inner ear.
• Mixed Hearing Loss:This type is a combination of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss, i.e., there’s damage to both the inner ear or auditory nerve and the outer or middle ear.

Causes of Hearing Loss

The causes of hearing loss are diverse and can vary depending on the type of hearing loss. Some common causes include:

• Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis):This is a gradual decline in hearing that occurs naturally with age, typically affecting the ability to hear higher-pitched sounds first.
• Noise-Induced Hearing Loss:Exposure to loud noise, whether from occupational or recreational sources, can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, leading to permanent hearing loss.
• Medical Conditions:Various medical conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, and infections, can contribute to hearing loss.
• Ototoxic Medications:Certain medications, including some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and pain relievers, can have ototoxic effects, meaning they can damage the inner ear and cause hearing loss.
• Genetic Factors:Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to hearing loss.

Treatment Options for Hearing Loss

Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to address hearing loss and improve hearing ability:

• Hearing Aids:Hearing aids are small electronic devices that amplify sound, making it easier to hear. They are a common solution for sensorineural hearing loss and can be customized to fit individual needs and preferences.
• Cochlear Implants:Cochlear implants are surgically implanted devices that bypass the damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve. They are an option for individuals with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss who do not benefit from hearing aids.
• Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs):ALDs are devices that help improve hearing in specific situations, such as when watching television, talking on the phone, or attending public gatherings.
• Other Treatments:Depending on the cause of hearing loss, other treatments may be recommended, such as earwax removal, surgery for ear infections or structural abnormalities, or medications to manage underlying medical conditions.

Protect Your Hearing

Hearing loss can significantly impact your ability to communicate, enjoy social interactions, and experience the world around you. By understanding the types and causes of hearing loss, you can take steps to protect your hearing and seek timely intervention when necessary.

If you have any concerns about your hearing or are experiencing signs of hearing loss, it may be time to see an otolaryngologist, otherwise known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. You can consult our ENT Specialist in League City TX, to learn more and scroll to the bottom to find an ENT physician who’s right for you.

The physicians at Houston Physicians’ Hospital also specialize in treating neck pain, hip pain, knee pain, shoulder pain, and providing advanced care for hip surgery in Webster, TX.

Our feet are our foundation, carrying us through life’s journey. Yet we often neglect them until pain or discomfort strikes. Foot problems can significantly impact our mobility and overall well-being, but many people hesitate to seek professional help.

A podiatrist is a healthcare professional specializing in foot and ankle care. They are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from minor ailments to complex foot and ankle surgeries.

Recognizing the Signs

Here are some common signs that indicate it’s time to see a podiatrist:

• Persistent Foot Pain:If you experience foot pain that lasts for more than a few days or interferes with your daily activities, it’s essential to seek professional evaluation.
• Heel Pain:Heel pain, especially in the morning or after a period of rest, can be a sign of plantar fasciitis, a common condition that affects the heel and arch of the foot.
• Changes in Skin or Nails:Any changes in the skin or nails of your feet, such as discoloration, thickening, or unusual growths, should be evaluated by a podiatrist. These changes could indicate fungal infections, skin conditions, or even melanoma.
• Numbness or Tingling:Numbness or tingling in the feet can be a sign of nerve damage, which may be caused by conditions like diabetes or peripheral neuropathy.
• Swelling or Inflammation:Swelling or inflammation in the feet or ankles can be a symptom of various conditions, including arthritis, tendonitis, or sprains.
• Difficulty Walking or Balancing:If you have difficulty walking or balancing due to foot or ankle pain, it’s important to seek professional help.
• Ingrown Toenails:Ingrown toenails can be painful and may become infected if left untreated. A podiatrist can provide proper care and management.
• Diabetes:People with diabetes are at increased risk for foot problems due to nerve damage and poor circulation. Regular checkups with a podiatrist are essential for preventing complications.

Benefits of Seeing a Podiatrist

Consulting a podiatrist offers several benefits. Podiatrists have the expertise to accurately diagnose foot and ankle conditions, which is vital for effective treatment. They can then develop personalized treatment plans based on the diagnosis, which may include medications, orthotics, physical therapy, or surgery if necessary.

Podiatrists also provide guidance on proper foot care, footwear choices, and preventive measures to maintain healthy feet and avoid future problems.

Houston Physicians’ Hospital: Your Partner in Foot and Ankle Care

The physicians at Houston Physicians Hospital recognize the importance of comprehensive foot and ankle care. They’re dedicated to providing personalized care to patients with various foot and ankle conditions.

If you’re experiencing any foot or ankle problems, you can learn about our podiatry services by visiting our webpage. There you can read about different types of foot conditions and treatments and find a podiatrist who’s right for you.

The physicians also address back pain, neck pain, and Joint Pain Treatments near NASA TX.

A colonoscopy is an essential screening procedure that can help detect early signs of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal issues.

Here are five important things you should know before your colonoscopy.

Continue reading “5 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR COLONOSCOPY”

Spinal cord injuries are devastating events that can have life-altering consequences. These injuries disrupt the communication pathways between the brain and the body, leading to a range of impairments, including paralysis, loss of sensation, and difficulty with bowel and bladder control.

While the initial injury can cause significant damage, prompt medical intervention and early detection are crucial for minimizing further complications and maximizing the potential for recovery.

The Critical Role of Early Detection

Early detection of spinal cord injuries is paramount for several reasons:

• Preventing Further Damage:The spinal cord is a delicate structure, and any movement or manipulation after an injury can worsen the damage. Early detection allows for immediate immobilization and stabilization of the spine, preventing further injury and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
• Reducing Inflammation:Inflammation is a natural response to injury, but excessive inflammation can damage surrounding tissues and impede healing. Early detection allows for the prompt administration of medications like corticosteroids, which can help reduce inflammation and protect the spinal cord from further damage.
• Improving Neurological Outcomes:Early intervention with surgery or medications can help decompress the spinal cord and improve blood flow, potentially leading to better neurological outcomes.
• Facilitating Rehabilitation:The sooner rehabilitation begins, the better the chances of regaining function and independence. Early detection allows for timely referral to specialized rehabilitation programs that can help individuals adapt to their injuries and maximize their potential for recovery.

Signs and Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injuries

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a spinal cord injury is vital for seeking immediate medical attention.

These may include:

• Loss of Sensation:Numbness, tingling, or complete loss of sensation in the arms, legs, or other parts of the body.
• Paralysis:Inability to move the arms or legs.
• Weakness:Decreased strength or difficulty moving the limbs.
• Pain or Pressure in the Neck or Back:This can indicate damage to the vertebrae or spinal cord.
• Difficulty Breathing:Injuries to the cervical spine (neck) can affect the muscles involved in breathing.
• Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control:This can indicate damage to the nerves that control these functions.

What to Do in Case of Suspected Spinal Cord Injury

If you suspect someone has a spinal cord injury, call for emergency medical help immediately. While waiting for help to arrive, keep the person still and avoid moving them. Support the head and neck to prevent further movement. Do not attempt to remove any helmets or protective gear. Continuously monitor the person’s breathing and provide first aid if necessary.

Houston Physicians’ Hospital’s Spine Solutions

The orthopedic spine surgeons at Houston Physicians’ Hospital’s Spine Solutions Center understand the urgency and complexity of spinal cord injuries. They’re dedicated to providing comprehensive care to individuals suffering from spinal cord injuries. Visit the Spine Solutions Center webpage to learn more and to find an orthopedic spine surgeon who’s right for you.