Hormonal Imbalance: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

The human body produces over fifty hormones, each crucial in regulating essential functions, including metabolism and reproduction.

Hormones are chemicals that tell the body what to do and when to do it. Any imbalances in their levels can lead to significant changes in the body that require proper treatments. Hormone imbalances are relatively common worldwide and in India. In fact, recent studies suggest that around ​​1 in 3 people experience hormonal imbalances at some point in their lives. This article delves into hormonal imbalances, their causes, symptoms, and treatments. 

What is Hormone? 

Hormones are chemical substances that carry messages throughout the body. Their task is to regulate various physiological functions in the body, such as metabolism, appetite, sleep cycles, reproductive system, growth and development, body temperature, and heartbeat. Hormones are secreted by endocrine glands that are present in different parts of the body.  

What are Hormonal Imbalances? 

Hormonal imbalance happens in the body when a particular hormone is secreted in abnormal quantities in the bloodstream. Various symptoms often accompany these changes in the body and can influence the normal functions of the body. Some hormonal imbalances are temporary, while some can be chronic. 

What Causes Hormonal Imbalances?

The levels of hormones in the body rise and fall naturally, but several reasons can elevate this natural fluctuation. These causes include:

1. Stress
2. Use of certain medicines and steroids
3. Hormone therapy
4. Cancer treatments
5. Pituitary tumours
6. Cancerous or benign tumours
7. Eating disorders

Certain medical conditions could also cause hormonal imbalances, such as: 

1. Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
2. Hypothyroidism
3. Hyperthyroidism
4. Addison’s disease
5. Cushing syndrome or high levels of cortisol

Some causes of hormone imbalance that only occur in females include:

1. Menopause
2. Primary ovarian insufficiency or premature menopause
3. Puberty
4. Pregnancy 
5. Menstruation
6. Breastfeeding
7. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
8. Hormone medications 

What are the Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalances? 

Most hormonal imbalance symptoms depend on which particular hormone is secreted abnormally. Common symptoms include: 

1. Slow or rapid heartbeat
2. Unexplained weight gain and weight loss
3. Muscle weakness and muscle aches, tenderness, and stiffness
4. Constipation or Diarrhoea  
5. Numbness and tingling in hands
6. Frequent urination
7. Enhanced sensitivity to high or low temperature
8. Increased thirst or hunger
9. Decreased sex drive
10. Depression and anxiety
11. Hump of fat between the shoulders

Some hormonal imbalance symptoms in females are: 

1. Acne on face, chest, and upper back
2. Hair loss
3. Heavy or irregular periods
4. Hyperpigmentation, especially around the neck, groin, and under the breasts
5. Vaginal dryness and atrophy
6. Hirsutism or excess body hair
7. Hot flashes
8. Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
9. Infertility
10. Low sex drive

What Tests Are Used to Determine Hormonal Imbalance? 

There is no specific test that doctors use to determine hormonal imbalances. Some common ones include:

1. Blood Tests

Medical professionals may recommend blood sample tests since the majority of hormones can be detected in the blood. These tests measure the concentration of hormones in the blood.

2. Physical Exams  

Doctors may perform physical exams to detect abnormalities. For example, they may perform pap smears to test for unusual cysts, lumps, or tumours in the uterus or check the scrotum for abnormalities or lumps.

3. Ultrasound

Ultrasounds use sound waves to look inside the body. Doctors may suggest an ultrasound to obtain images of the thyroid gland, pituitary gland, ovaries, testicles, or other internal organs.

4. Other Tests

Some other standard tests include biopsies, MRIs, X-rays, sperm count tests, thyroid scans, and more.

How Can Hormonal Imbalances Be Managed?

Consulting with a medical professional is necessary to know how to control hormonal imbalances. Some lifestyle habits can also help manage them, such as:

1. Eating a balanced diet. 
2. Getting quality sleep.
3. Exercising regularly.
4. Maintaining a healthy weight.
5. Decrease vaginal discomfort by using moisturizers free of parabens and glycerin.
6. Quitting smoking or tobacco products.

Hormonal imbalances could cause a large range of issues, including some severe ones. If one notices symptoms of hormonal imbalance, they should immediately consult their healthcare provider. To book a comprehensive test for hormone disorder, visit the Dr Lal PathLabs website today.  

FAQs 

1. How to cure hormonal imbalances in females?

Women can cure hormonal imbalances by consulting their healthcare provider and taking proper treatments. They also prevent these imbalances by exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, maintaining personal hygiene, and having a balanced diet. 

2. What are some natural remedies for hormonal imbalances in females?

There are some natural remedies for hormonal imbalances, although they are not clinically proven. These include black cohosh, red clover, dong quai, and evening primrose oil.