Estradiol Side Effects
At a certain age, women will find themselves going through menopause. It's probably one of the biggest changes in the female body next to pregnancy. Many women will seek help to lessen the symptoms that often accompany this time of life by undergoing a course of hormone replacement therapy. One such hormone that you may end up using is Estradiol. But it has its side effects; read on to learn more.
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Identification
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Estradiol is basically a form of the hormone estrogen that is administered through injection, oral tablet, transdermal patch or topical spray/gel predominantly as part of a hormone replacement therapy for women going through menopause. It may also be used by women suffering from ovarian failure or hypogonadism, a defect in the functioning of the ovaries that essentially results in premature menopause. Usually, women will be given Estradiol to treat symptoms of menopause, helping to lessen the effects of hot flashes and irritation, burning or dryness of the vagina.
Effects
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While Estradiol has its benefits in hormone replacement therapy, there are a number of common side effects that many women may experience, including bloating, nausea, cramps, fluctuation in weight, breast tenderness, dizziness, headache, vaginal infection, flushing (episodic attacks of redness and warmth), hair loss or abnormal hair growth, backache and a change in sex drive. However, most women will experience little to no side effects while using the hormone. If one or more of these symptoms become evident, you should consult your physician immediately.
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Warning
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Though most Estradiol side effects are relatively minor, some can be fairly severe, including strong headache, fainting, abnormal vaginal bleeding (spotting or prolonged bleeding), unusual vaginal discharge as well as an itching sensation or irregular odor, vomiting, trouble urinating, mental changes (depression, fluctuation of mood or even confusion and memory loss), a change in vision, a change in speech, shortness of breath, coughing of blood, breast lumps, weakness and chest pain. If you experience one or more of these side effects, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Significance
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Some women may also have an allergic reaction to Estradiol which may result in seemingly minor to rather acute symptoms, including an itching sensation, rash or hives, tightness in the throat or chest, difficulty breathing, a swelling of the tongue, an inflammation of the mouth or lips, and an overall puffiness of the face. Some women may also suffer a swelling of the hands, feet and legs.
Expert Insight
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Side effects will vary greatly between women and depending on the form of Estradiol used in your particular course of hormone replacement therapy. Before starting any treatment for menopause, make sure you understand the benefits and risks of being on this sort of hormone. Prolonged use of Estradiol has been associated, though not definitively, with an increased risk of uterine and other forms of cancer.
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