Sutter Delta - Index

Sutter Delta - spring2008magazine - Index

Women, It’s Time to Mention
Bloating. Constipation. Hot flashes.
Incontinence. Sweating. It’s bad enough
experiencing these conditions, let alone
talking about them. However, talking
about these things with your doctor may
be your prescription to better health.
“If you don’t talk about what’s
bothering you, then we won’t know
how to fix the problem,” says Zoe
Berna, M.D., family medicine physician
with Solano Regional Medical Group
and on staff at Sutter Solano Medical
Center (shown at left and on the cover).
“If you’re too embarrassed to ask a
question, then write a list of topics and
hand it to your doctor.”
In this issue of Your Health, Dr. Berna answers questions that
many women are reluctant to ask. Remember, your doctor is
your partner in getting the best care for you. If you experience
any of these symptoms or have other questions, be sure to talk
with your doctor.
What is irritable bowel syndrome,
and how do I know whether I have it?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that
causes a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain,
diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas and cramping.
One of the easiest ways to treat IBS is to change your diet.
Monitoring what you eat can help you discover if certain foods
trigger an attack. Once you identify problem foods, you can
eliminate them from your diet. Gradually adding fiber to
your diet can help ease abdominal pain, especially if you are
bothered by constipation. Although there is no cure for IBS,
symptoms can be managed with diet, stress reduction and
medication, if necessary.
Am I going through menopause?
It’s a question that many women ask when they first begin
having out-of-the-ordinary symptoms, such as hot flashes,
irregular periods and mood swings.
Years ago, such symptoms would have been labeled menopause
or the change of life. Today, your doctor is more likely to
call it perimenopause, a term for the transitional years leading to
the end of menstruation. Many women develop one or more
symptoms of perimenopause between ages 45 and 55. Often
lifestyle changes or simple drug remedies can bring relief.
A healthy lifestyle can help reduce symptoms of menopause
while lowering your risk for heart disease and other problems.
HOT FLASHES ~ SWEATING ~ CONSTI
8 yourhealth spring 2008