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The increase in the risk of heart disease
for women after menopause is thought to occur because of declining estrogen
levels. For years it was believed that estrogen
replacement therapy (hormone replacement therapy, or HRT) offered a
protective effect against heart disease for women when taken regularly.
However, information obtained from the Women's Health Initiative in April 2000
found that estrogen
increases the risk of heart disease.
According to a Women' s Health Initiative fact sheet:
"No study has ever proven that HRT
will reduce heart attacks. Several studies have been conducted on the effect of
HRT and heart disease which have suggested that HRT decreases heart disease
risk of heart disease risk factors such as LDL levels. However, these studies
were mostly observational studies where women themselves, or their physicians,
chose HRT and were followed over time. Such studies are not reliable. They were
not controlled enough to offer definitive answers."
Like oral contraceptive users, women who smoke and use
estrogen may additionally increase their risk of cardiovascular disease.
What Are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?
Although some patients may experience
headaches, dizziness, or blurred vision, most times no symptoms are
present. You may be completely unaware that you have high blood pressure until
something happens that requires medical attention. Women who experience a lack
of sexual desire should have a blood pressure check, since some believe that
high blood pressure can cause low libido in some women.
Regular blood pressure checks should be a part of
everyone's routine health screening. Self-serve blood pressure monitoring
equipment is available at many pharmacies, and most hospitals and clinics will
perform blood pressure screening free upon request.
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