Humans have a complex system that works by communicating through the cells, tissues, and skin with the assistance of chemical messengers, known as hormones. These are poured directly into your bloodstream and reach their target performing special functions and providing instructions to the target organs about what to do and how to do it.
Under several conditions, the hormonal secretions are disturbed, leading to devastating conditions that could interfere with our everyday lives. We shall briefly discuss some general conditions in today’s article.
Hormonal imbalances:
The hormones imbalance when there is very much or less secretion of hormones in the bloodstream. Even slight imbalances can cause different complications throughout the body due to their essential role in our living system.
Hormones are necessary for regulating functions, of which some are listed below:
- Heart rate.
- Appetite and Metabolism.
- Growth and development.
- Stress levels and mood.
- Reproductive cycles.
- Sexual desires.
- Body temperature.
- Energy levels.
- Tolerance of certain conditions such as hot or cold temperature.
Besides the roles mentioned above, there are also many other functions of hormones, which could otherwise not be possible if there is an imbalance.
Hormones keep fluctuating at different times of your age. However, if these fluctuations are not natural due to external conditions affecting the endocrine system, it would be harmful.
Common Signs of Hormonal Imbalance:
The hormones are versatile in their functions, triggering roles in overall health. Therefore, there is a broad range of signs and symptoms indicating a hormonal imbalance. Symptoms vary depending upon which hormone is not functioning correctly.
General symptoms affecting men and women are listed below:
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain.
- Changes in Blood Pressure.
- Weakness of bones due to brittleness.
- Changes in heart rate.
- Intolerant to stress conditions.
- Irritability and anxiety.
- Skin becomes dry and rashes.
- Fatigue.
- Depression.
- Difficulty Sleeping.
- Headaches.
- Increased thirst.
- Urination problems.
- Reduced Sex Drive.
- Infertility.
- Changes in menstrual cycles.
- Blurred vision.
- Puffy face.
- Bloating.
- Breasts tenderness.
- A Bulge in the Neck.
- Increased sweating.
- Constipation and other bowel movement disorders.
- Muscle aches.
Keep in mind, the symptoms mentioned above are non-specific and do not necessarily indicate a hormonal imbalance.
Some Important Endocrine Glands:
There are about 20 endocrine glands in the human body. Each gland performs its specific function by producing its unique hormone. Some glands which are most commonly known areas:
- Pituitary Glands.
- Gonads (Testes in males and ovaries in females).
- Pineal gland.
- Thyroid and parathyroid glands.
- Hypothalamus.
- Pancreas (islets of Langerhans).
Causes of Hormonal Imbalance:
There are different causes of hormonal imbalance. The reasons vary depending upon the affected hormone or endocrine gland. However, some general reasons are:
- Medications affecting endocrine glands.
- Chemotherapy.
- Radiotherapy in diseases such as cancer.
- Both benign or cancerous tumors.
- Eating disorders.
- Injury or trauma.
- Stress.
These causes can lead to other complications of imbalance in hormonal level. Certain environmental conditions may also trigger complications such as:
- Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.
- Chronic or extreme stress.
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid glands).
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid glands)
- Hyperglycemia (more production of glucagon).
- Hypoglycemia (less production of glucagon).
- Osteoporosis.
- Pituitary tumors.
- Cushing Syndrome (high level of stress hormone- cortisol)
- Being overweight.
- Addison Diseases (low levels of aldosterone).
- Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (low levels of cortisol).
- Severe allergic reactions.
- Cancers of endocrine glands.
- Iodine Deficiency (Goiters)
- Pancreatitis.
- Turner Syndrome.
- Anorexia.
- Ovarian Cancers.
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
- Early menopause.
- Infertility.
Treatments for hormonal imbalance:
The treatments may vary from the cause of hormonal imbalance. Every person may require different treatments for hormonal imbalance. However, some general treatments areas:
For Women:
- Taking Birth Control Pills (containing synthetic hormones).
- Applying creams for vaginal estrogen.
- Hormonal replacement therapies and medications.
- Taking Anti-androgen medicines.
- Assisted reproductive technologies.
For Men:
Treatment options available exclusively for men areas:
- Testosterone enhancing medications.
Natural remedies to control hormonal imbalance:
Some natural remedies are also available which could be acquired and proven effective to prevent a hormonal imbalance.
- Exercising regularly.
- Maintaining body weight according to age.
- Eating a nutritious diet.
- Using over-the-counter medication.
- Practicing Yoga and meditation.
- Avoid packaged foods.
- Limiting sugary foods.
- Avoiding foods with pesticides.
Summary:
Hormonal imbalances are becoming common nowadays in people during puberty or other times of a person’s life. Many factors are responsible for them. However, early diagnosis and treatment provided by an expert could prevent severe medical problems. The expert dealing with hormonal issues is an endocrinologist and secure your healthy life.
Additional Frequently Asked Questions Related to Hormonal Imbalance:
Some of the questions related to hormonal imbalance are provided below:
Which do both men and women experience the most common hormonal imbalance?
Men and women are mostly affected by imbalances in their insulin production, thus facing diabetes.
Can Hormonal Imbalance stop periods in females?
Some conditions are observed in which there is late or delayed menstruation in females leading to stop or disturbance in periods of females.
Is ginger good for hormonal imbalance?
Ginger is rich in antioxidants, thus helping to improve hormonal changes and bringing hormonal levels back to normal. Ginger tea is good and is advised by many experts.
Does hormone imbalance cause pimples?
Yes. Hormonal imbalance is a significant cause of acne in adults and contributes to pimples in them.
