What is hormone imbalance?
A hormone imbalance occurs when there are too much or too little of a certain hormone in the body. Hormones are chemicals produced by the endocrine glands and released into the bloodstream. They travel to different tissues and organs and affect many essential functions in the body.
Some key facts about hormone imbalances:
- They can happen if a gland is not working properly or a person has problems converting hormones from one form to another. Common culprits are the thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, and ovaries or testicles.
- Both men and women can experience hormone imbalance, but it is more common in women.
- Symptoms depend on the hormone affected but may include fatigue, weight gain, hot flashes, hair loss, and changes in mood or libido.
What causes hormone imbalances?
- Dysfunction of an endocrine gland - The pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands or pancreas can malfunction and not release enough hormones.
- Menopause and perimenopause - Declining estrogen and progesterone levels in women approaching menopause cause significant hormonal fluctuations.
- Thyroid disorders - An underactive or overactive thyroid gland releases too much or too little thyroid hormones.
- Tumors on glands - Tumors can alter hormonal output from endocrine glands.
- High stress lifestyles - Chronic stress elevates cortisol and affects other hormones.
- Poor diet and lack of exercise - Being overweight and inactive disrupts many hormones.
If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, get your hormone levels tested by an endocrinologist. Based on lab results and symptoms, they can prescribe bioidentical hormones or other treatment to help restore optimal balance.
The experts at Second Spring Hormone Clinic specialize in natural solutions for hormone balance issues in both men and women. We take a holistic approach to identify the root causes and customize treatment based on your unique health profile. Our personalized programs have helped hundreds restore energy, thyroid function, and quality of life when struggling with suboptimal hormone health.