What are hormonal disorders?
Hormonal disorders occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the bloodstream. Hormones are chemical messengers that help regulate growth, metabolism, reproduction, mood, sexual function, and many other essential biological processes.
Some common hormonal disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism - when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This can cause fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and other symptoms.
- Hyperthyroidism - when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone. This speeds up metabolism and can cause unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, and more.
- Diabetes - caused by low insulin production or insulin resistance. This results in high blood sugar and complications like nerve, kidney, and heart damage if untreated.
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) - a common hormone problem in women causing irregular/absent periods, excess hair growth, acne, and fertility issues.
- Early or delayed puberty - when puberty and sexual development happens too soon or too late in childhood. This can indicate an underlying hormone problem.
What causes hormonal imbalances?
Hormone disorders can start in the glands that produce hormones, like the thyroid, adrenals, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. Some common causes include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Pituitary gland tumors
- Inflammation or autoimmune diseases
- Infection
- Injury or trauma to a gland
- Obesity
- High stress levels
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Aging
Symptoms depend on the specific hormone affected, but may include:
- Unexplained weight changes
- Hot flashes or temperature sensitivity
- Changes in heart rate and blood pressure
- Brain fog, low mood, irritability
- Sleep disruptions and low energy
- Hair loss or excess hair growth
- Reproductive issues and changes in breasts/genitals
If you suspect a possible hormone imbalance, schedule a checkup with your doctor or visit Harmony Hormone Center. Our endocrinologists specialize in detecting and treating various hormonal conditions through lab testing, medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes tailored to your unique needs.
Diagnosing hormonal disorders usually begins with a physical exam, personal and family health history, and discussion of symptoms. Common diagnostic tests include:
- Blood tests checking hormone levels
- Urine tests
- Imaging tests like ultrasounds and CT scans
- Biopsies
Treatments for hormonal disorders aim to replace lacking hormones or block excess hormone production:
- Hormone replacement therapies - such as thyroid medication for hypothyroidism or testosterone therapy
- Medications to suppress hormone production - like drugs blocking excess thyroid hormone in hyperthyroidism
- Surgery - to remove tumors on glands or all/part of dysfunctional glands
- Lifestyle changes - adjusting nutrition, sleep, exercise, and stress levels
The good news is hormonal disorders are often manageable with proper treatment tailored to the individual. Work closely with your healthcare providers like the professionals at Harmony Hormone Center, get lab testing as needed, and monitor your symptoms to keep hormone levels balanced. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits is also key.
I hope this overview on hormonal disorder causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options has been helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. Wishing you happy hormones and great health!