Hormonal Imbalance: What Are The Symptoms And Causes?

Hormones are the chemical messengers that play quite an important role in our body. An imbalance in any of these hormones can become the cause of a lot of health issues. According to the research and scientific studies that have happened so far, a total of 50 different hormones have been identified.

It is important to have a balanced diet and engage in various physical and mental activities that would help us maintain a healthy level of hormones.

In this article, we will some of the major health conditions or disorders caused due to the imbalance of hormones, the major symptoms that can be noticed in such situations, the causes for the same, and the most effective treatments that can be administered to the patients in such situations. 

Symptoms: Major Three Signs That A Hormone Imbalance May Be Affecting You

When it comes to symptoms, it is important to discuss the same on the basis of the health conditions faced by the patient. If the individual is suffering from metabolism-related issues, the symptoms to be noticed would be different from the ones that he would be suffering if it is a reproductive disorder caused due to hormonal imbalance. You will be able to find the major symptoms according to the health condition you are experiencing in the following section. 

Symptoms And Signs Of Hormonal Imbalance

  1. Symptoms of metabolism-related hormonal imbalance issues 

Metabolism is one of the vital processes in the human body that helps you convert the consumed food into energy required for various physiological activities. Apart from that, it may also help you maintain a healthy body weight, regulate your appetite, and determine your energy level to confront various physical and mental activities on a daily basis. Some of the common symptoms that you would be able to notice if you are experiencing metabolic disorders can be found below. 

  • Constipation 
  • Irregular heartbeats
  • Diarrhea 
  • Irregular bowel movements 
  • Unhealthy cholesterol levels 

  1. Symptoms of female reproductive health-related hormonal imbalance issues 

When it comes to the reproductive hormones found in females, estrogen and progesterone are some of the most important hormones. These two hormones that are vital for their reproductive health are produced by the ovaries. When the amount of these hormones falls significantly, it may cause some reproductive disorders in the individuals. Apart from that, hormones like testosterone and androgens may also affect the reproductive health of the females. These two hormones are prominent in the male physiology. When the quantity of these hormones goes overboard in a female body, it may also cause reproductive health-related issues. Some of the symptoms that can be noticed in such a situation are; 

  • Irregular periods
  • Infertility 
  • Heavy periods
  • Hair loss 
  • Low libido 

  1. Symptoms of male reproductive health-related hormonal imbalance issues

Testosterone is the determining hormone when it comes to the reproductive health-related issues found in males. When testosterone falls beyond the desired level, the individual may experience symptoms including the following. 

  • Reduced libido 
  • Fertility issues 
  • Los of body hair 
  • Enlarged breasts 
  • Lack of muscle mass in the body 

Causes of Hormonal Imbalance 

There are a lot of various reasons for hormonal imbalances to occur in our bodies. These causes include that are temporary and chronic. However, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of the causes. This would help you understand the intensity of the issues you are facing due to hormonal imbalances and you would know when to seek an expert professional help. Some of the causes that cause temporary hormonal imbalances have been mentioned below. 

1. Puberty 

The hormonal imbalance issues found during this particular stage can be quite dramatic. It can be found both in adolescent boys and girls. Acne, increased curiosity towards new experiences and utilities, a hot temper, etc. are some of the symptoms that can be found during this period. However, these may subside over the course of several years, generally once they cross the puberty stage. It is important for the parents, teachers, and society to understand these mental and physical changes happening in a human being during this stage, and provide better growing environments for the children. 

2. Pregnancy 

This is another important biological change in the life of a human being when drastic mental and physiological changes can be noticed due to the fluctuating levels of hormones. These changes are also quite natural, however, if you are experiencing unbearable tantrums, poor mental health, or any other physical conditions, make sure that you share it with your doctor during the routine checkups. Postpartum is also another important stage related to pregnancy when you would be experiencing such hormonal issues. It is important that you provide ample mental support to the ladies during this period so that the baby and the newborn mom can have a healthy and happy life ahead. 

3. Menopause

Menopause is a condition that also happens in females when they cross the reproductive age of their lives. This can be commonly seen during the age group of 45-60. Most of the females may experience issues such as abdominal pain, mental health issues, irregular periods, spotting issues, and so on during this period. 

4. Steroid intake or several medications 

This can also bring imbalances in the hormones and eventually cause various health issues. After the diagnosis, it is important to give up on the steroid and look for some alternatives that would serve the purpose. Apart from that, it is also important to take care of your diet and strictly follow the medications. 

Conclusion

In most cases, doctors may prescribe you hormone pills or injections if the diagnosis finds lower hormone levels. However, if you are experiencing an excess of any hormone, medications become the primary stage of the treatment. In the later stages surgery or radiation therapy would be prescribed by the doctors.

Apart from that, in some cases, doctors are also seen prescribing a combination of surgery and radiation therapy. Some nutritional supplements may also help you bring the healthy balance back. However, make sure that you always seek the advice of your doctor before getting your hands on any of them. Working out on a daily basis and having an eye on your stress levels may also help. 

Dr. Vanessa Rodriguez is a board-certified general practitioner with more than 15 years of patient care experience. She takes an integrative approach to patient care that considers the whole person – mind, body, and spirit – and is deeply committed to assisting her patients in achieving and sustaining optimal health. Dr. Vanessa is also a skilled writer and medical reviewer, specializing in preventive care and health promotion. Her articles are written in an approachable manner that is simple to comprehend and implement in one’s own life. Dr. Vanessa’s mission is to equip her patients and readers with the knowledge and resources necessary to live their greatest lives.

Leave a Comment