Hormonal disorders occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the body. Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate many of the body's functions, including growth and development, metabolism, sexual function, reproduction, and mood.
Some common hormonal disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism: When the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and constipation. It is typically treated with synthetic thyroid hormone medication.
- Hyperthyroidism: When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include nervousness, weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and hypersensitivity to heat. It is usually treated with medication, radioiodine therapy, or thyroid surgery.
- Diabetes: Caused by the pancreas not producing enough insulin or the body not properly using insulin. This leads to high blood sugar levels. Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurry vision, and fatigue. It is managed through medication, diet, and exercise.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. It leads to infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, and obesity. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms.
- Menopause: When a woman stops menstruating permanently, typically in her late 40s or early 50s. It occurs because the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone. Symptoms include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Hormone therapy can help manage symptoms.
- Hyperprolactinemia: When too much prolactin is produced, often due to a benign tumor in the pituitary gland. Symptoms include milk discharge from the breasts, missed menstrual periods, and infertility. It is treated with medication or surgery.
- Cushing's disease: Excess cortisol production, often from a pituitary tumor. Symptoms include upper body obesity, rounded face, thin arms and legs, easy bruising, and weakness. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation, or cortisol-inhibiting medication.
The key to managing hormonal disorders is getting an accurate diagnosis from an endocrinologist. Blood and imaging tests can help identify the underlying cause. Many hormonal conditions are chronic and require ongoing monitoring and treatment. Lifestyle changes like eating well, exercising, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep also help.
If you're dealing with symptoms like fatigue, appetite changes, hot flashes, or sexual dysfunction,
consider getting a hormone level screening. The caring doctors at Vital Hormone Clinic specialize in hormonal health and offer comprehensive testing and personalized treatment plans to help you regain balance and optimal wellbeing. Our integrative approach combines standard hormone medications with diet, supplements, and stress reduction techniques when needed. Contact us today to schedule a consultation - our compassionate staff is here to help you thrive!