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Hormones play a crucial role in a number of bodily functions. These chemical messengers affect our bodies in several ways, from managing our metabolism and mood, to growth and sexual function, among others. That said, hormonal imbalance can manifest in many different ways, depending on the hormones in question and whether their levels are higher of lower than they should be. These imbalances often manifest through symptoms, which can indicate other underlying health issues. To identify these and treat them accordingly, sometimes tests must be performed.
In this gallery, we take you through some of the most common symptoms, the hormones that are usually tested, and treatment options. Click on for more.
Hormones are essentially chemical messengers that carry signals to different parts of the body.
The body uses hormones for a number of bodily processes, including growth, metabolism, mood, reproduction, and sexual function.
A hormone imbalance test looks for any irregularities in hormone levels. These imbalances may be linked to a number of health conditions.
The signs of a hormone imbalance can vary greatly. A healthcare provider may prescribe such tests when the following symptoms are present: tiredness, unexplained weight gain or loss, mood swings, anxiety, or depression.
Other symptoms that may trigger the need for a hormone test include hot flashes or night sweats, low libido, irregular periods, or infertility.
Digestive issues, sleep problems, as well as hair thinning or excessive hair growth, are also common symptoms that may be related to hormone imbalances.
Hormone tests can be done in different ways depending on the hormones being tested. These can be performed by analyzing blood, urine, or saliva.
Hormone levels fluctuate during the day, so the time a test is performed does influence the result. As such, to ensure consistency in the results, sometimes medical providers ask for certain tests to be repeated. Now, let’s take a look at some of the hormones that are tested, and why.
Sex hormones are essential for both a person’s sexual development and reproductive function.
Alternation in estrogen levels may indicate a number of health problems, namely polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and fertility issues.
Low or high levels of estrogen may also suggest menopause. Hormonal imbalances in men have also been linked to gynecomastia (male breasts).
An imbalance of progesterone levels may lead to menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, and problems during pregnancy.
Low testosterone in men can cause fatigue, low libido, and erectile dysfunction. High levels of testosterone in women may indicate PCOS or other medical issues.
Imbalances in DHEA-S can affect mood and energy, as well as sexual function.
Thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism, which is the chemical process that manages energy production in the body.
These tests are used to determine whether you have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or an overactive one (hyperthyroidism). Both can have an impact on mood, energy levels, and body weight.
This test is often performed to detect autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto's or Graves' disease.
These hormones play a role in a number of processes, including our metabolism, stress response, and blood pressure.
Changes in cortisol levels, also known as the stress hormone, may indicate a number of problems. High levels are linked to stress, but also issues such as Cushing's syndrome, while low levels may indicate conditions such as Addison's disease.
Testing aldosterone levels is a way to diagnose issues related to salt balance and blood pressure.
Reproductive hormones not only play a role in one’s sexual development, but they also have an impact on fertility and the menstrual cycle.
Imbalances in either or both LH and FSH levels may indicate a wide range of issues, from ovulatory dysfunction to infertility and pituitary issues, or be a sign of menopause.
Prolactin is often tested when a woman experiences irregular periods or unexpected milk production. High levels have also been linked to infertility.
These hormones regulate growth and development. They play a role in how the body absorbs food and uses energy.
Imbalances in GH and IGF-1 have been linked to a number of growth disorders and metabolic issues.
Melatonin plays a crucial role in sleep patterns, so irregular levels may have an impact on sleep.
Treatment will depend on the hormone imbalance and the underlying cause of the abnormal levels. Sometimes medication is prescribed.
Some hormone imbalances may even require surgery. An example includes patients with an overactive parathyroid gland.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may also be prescribed for both male and female patients (e.g. testosterone, estrogen, etc.).
Sometimes a holistic approach including dietary and lifestyle changes is the way forward. These may include a healthy balanced diet, exercise, stress management, and good sleep hygiene.
"Stress and lifestyle factors significantly contribute to hormone imbalances by disrupting the delicate hormonal equilibrium in the body," says Deborah Grayson, a pharmacist and nutritional therapist. "Long-term or extreme stress, poor lifestyle habits, and environmental factors can trigger or worsen imbalances, leading to various symptoms and health conditions."
Sources: (Patient.info)
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Hormones play a crucial role in a number of bodily functions. These chemical messengers affect our bodies in several ways, from managing our metabolism and mood, to growth and sexual function, among others. That said, hormonal imbalance can manifest in many different ways, depending on the hormones in question and whether their levels are higher of lower than they should be. These imbalances often manifest through symptoms, which can indicate other underlying health issues. To identify these and treat them accordingly, sometimes tests must be performed.
In this gallery, we take you through some of the most common symptoms, the hormones that are usually tested, and treatment options. Click on for more.