Hormonal imbalances are related to issues with the endocrine system, which is comprised of eight major glands in the body. Hormones – chemical messengers that circulate via the blood system – are produced in these glands. Hormones are critical in the function of all organs and tissues.
Most imbalances of this kind occur when the body produces either too much or too little of a specific hormone. An imbalance can also happen when a body doesn’t adequately respond to the hormones present in the system.
What Can a Hormonal Imbalance Cause?
Common endocrine conditions caused by hormonal balances include diabetes, hypo- and hyperthyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome, and hypogonadism. These conditions can be quite serious, and likely necessitate medical attention. Here are some of the basics you should be aware of so that you can proactively take care of your health.
1. Diabetes: The most common endocrine disorders in the country are type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Those with Type 1 diabetes were born with the inability to produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes is typically developed during one’s life when the body stops making or processing insulin correctly.
Insulin facilitates the infusion of sugar into your blood, which is utilized to produce energy. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes result in excess sugar in the blood causing long-term side effects. These side-effects include damage to the eyes, kidneys, and nerves, heart disease, stroke, and amputations of the limbs.
2 . Thyroid Conditions: The thyroid gland is located at the front of the neck and produces necessary thyroid hormones. These specific hormones control how the body regulates energy and has the potential to affect systemic organ function adversely.
When the thyroid produces an insufficient level of hormones, hypothyroidism is the result. Hypothyroidism affects about 5% of Americans, but many experiences such minor symptoms they do not realize the condition. Hyperthyroidism creates too many hormones, causing irregular heartbeat and weakened bones. Hyperthyroidism is less prevalent than its counter version, affecting only 1% of the population.
Fast Fact: Women and people over the age of 60 are the most likely to develop a thyroid issue.
3. Adrenal Insufficiency: When the adrenal gland doesn’t produce enough of a hormone, an individual will experience adrenal insufficiency. This issue is typically related to cortisol, the “stress hormone.” Cortisol is essential for a healthy life, as a lack of it can cause exhaustion and fatigue, muscle weakness, decreased appetite, weight loss, and abdominal pain. An underlying autoimmune disorder can also cause adrenal sufficiency.
4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: This syndrome affects between 8% to 13% of all women of childbearing age and is the most common cause of infertility. Insulin, testosterone, and other androgens are involved in these fertility issues and can cause decreased ovulation and excessive facial hair growth. Polycystic ovary syndrome can also develop into cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.
5. Low Testosterone / Hypogonadism: Testosterone is a vital male sex hormone that regulates the development of sex characteristics like body and facial hair, muscle development, sperm production, and libido. Those with low testosterone levels may experience low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, enlarged breast tissue, low sperm count, and osteoporosis. Hypogonadism can also occur in females when the ovaries produce too few sex hormones.
Treatments and Cures
A loss of hormones due to age and environmental factors can affect both women and men and significantly interfere with life quality. Most of the above hormonal imbalances are typically addressed with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes, including changing diet and incorporating exercise.
However, some medications can cause unwanted side effects and even cause more damage over the long term. For those seeking a more natural or holistic approach without pharmaceuticals, there are Bioidentical Hormone Therapy or Natural Hormone Therapy.
Contact Dr. Cynthia and her team at Longevity Wellness Clinic in Bradenton to learn more.