Out and About June 2022 -issue198

48 | OUT AND ABOUT COSTA BLANCA
DAWN BLYTHE
The most hotly debated
medical subject!!
Everybody these days turns to
‘Google’ but if you start to research
the ‘pros and cons’ of taking HRT
you will be bombarded with a mix-match
of information!! My advice is that it is
generally not a good thing to turn to
internet for medical advice but if you do
want to do your own research, always use
trusted sites such as NHS Choices or NICE
(National Institute for Health and Care
Excellence).
If you visit a gynaecologist on the
Spanish Social Security system (NHS)
complaining of menopausal symptoms,
it is very likely that the response you
will receive is to be told it is ‘normal’
and basically you need to get on with it!!
The strange thing is that there are many
conditions that come with age such as
deteriorating eyesight, worn out joints,
high cholesterol etc. etc. But, do we say
‘Normal’........NO, we give people glasses,
joint replacements and medications!!!
So, why are some health professionals
reluctant to give HRT? It is because of fear
of risk factors.
Here at the Family Medical Centre
(Albir) we are generally pro HRT, so long
as it is given to suitable low risk patients
as safely as possible. For those suffering
(or who have suffered) from menopausal
symptoms, you will know that your
quality of life can be very much reduced to
the point that you feel a different person.
Loved ones may also report that you are
totally not yourself.