Estrogen Dominant Symptoms
The term "estrogen dominance" refers to an excess of estrogen that is out of balance with progesterone levels in a woman's system. In females, estrogen builds the lining of the womb each month and increases body fat. Progesterone turns that fat into energy. In addition to the normal hormonal variations caused by menopause, other factors may contribute to estrogen dominance, such as a diet low in fiber and the absorption of environmental toxins. Scores of symptoms are associated with estrogen dominance, a few of which are potentially serious.
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Estrogen Domiance
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The late Dr. John Lee came up with the phrase "estrogen dominance" in his first book on natural progesterone. According to Dr. Lee, even women with low estrogen levels can experience symptoms of estrogen dominance if she has a progesterone deficiency.
Side Effects
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When estrogen levels are out of sync with progesterone, many side effects can erupt, including breast tenderness, weight gain, water retention, headaches or migraines and irregular bleeding.
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Chronic Estrogen Dominance
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When estrogen dominance remains untreated, this chronic hormonal imbalance may lead to a variety of more serious conditions and diseases including infertility, endometriosis, heavy bleeding, missed periods, fibroids and possibly heart disease and cancer.
Specific Cancer Risks
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The chances of developing certain cancers goes up when estrogen dominance is present. The most common cancers that may result from this condition are endometrial (cancer of the womb), uterine and breast cancer.
Estrogen dominance can also contribute to the growth of fibrocystic breast disease.
Other Symptoms
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A cornucopia of other symptoms are associated with estrogen dominance. According to Dr. Lee, symptoms may include hair loss, reduced sex drive, dry eyes, foggy thinking, gallbladder disease and autoimmune disorders such as lupus.
Women may also be more prone to thyroid dysfunction and, as a result, frequently experience cold hands and feet.
Estrogen Dominance Symptoms in Men
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Dr. Lee maintained that men are not immune to estrogen dominance. He says it can increase the risk of prostate cancer and stimulate breast cell growth in males.
Diagnosis and Treatment
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If you think you may suffer from estrogen dominance, your physician can perform a complete examination, including blood tests. If the condition is detected, you may be advised to use a progestin (progesterone) supplement to balance and oppose the effects of the excess estrogen.
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