What are hormonal disorders?
Hormonal disorders occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the body. Hormones are chemicals that help regulate many bodily functions like growth, reproduction, metabolism, etc.
Some common hormonal disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism - This is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and depression. It is typically treated with synthetic thyroid medication.
- Hyperthyroidism - This is when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms can include unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, difficulty sleeping, and irritability. Medications, radioiodine therapy, or surgery can help treat hyperthyroidism.
- Diabetes - With diabetes, the body does not properly regulate blood sugar levels. There are two main types: type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin. Both types can be managed with medications, diet, and lifestyle changes.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - This affects women and results in a hormone imbalance that can cause irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain. Birth control pills and other medications can help regulate hormones and manage symptoms.
- Early or delayed puberty - Puberty that happens earlier or later than normal can indicate an underlying hormonal problem. Treatment depends on the cause but may include hormone therapy.
What causes hormonal imbalances?
Hormonal disorders can be caused by a variety of factors like genetics, autoimmune disorders, tumors, damage to glands, and certain medications. Things like stress, poor diet, and being overweight can also contribute to some hormone imbalances. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important for keeping hormone levels in balance.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a hormonal disorder, it is recommended to speak to your doctor. They can run blood tests to check your hormone levels and help diagnose any underlying conditions. Based on the cause, they may recommend medication, supplements, or lifestyle changes to get your hormones back in proper balance.