Hormonal disorders occur when there is an imbalance in the levels of hormones in the body. Hormones are chemical messengers that control most of the body's major systems, so an imbalance can cause widespread problems.
Some common hormonal disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism: This is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and feeling cold. It is treated with synthetic thyroid medication like levothyroxine.
- Hyperthyroidism: This is when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and anxiety. It is treated with medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery.
- Diabetes: This is when the body does not properly regulate blood sugar levels. There are two main types: type 1 diabetes is due to the body not producing enough insulin, while type 2 diabetes is due to the body not responding well to insulin. Both are treated through medications, diet, and exercise.
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): This affects women and causes a hormonal imbalance that can lead to irregular periods, acne, excessive hair growth, and weight gain. It is treated with hormonal birth control pills or other medications.
- Early or delayed puberty: When puberty starts either much earlier or later than normal, it is often due to a hormonal problem. Treatment depends on finding the underlying cause.
- Menopause: When a woman stops having her period, it is due to the natural decline in reproductive hormones like estrogen. Hormone therapy can help manage troublesome symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, it is important to see your doctor for testing. Blood or saliva tests can determine if hormone levels are too high or low. Treatment will depend on the specific disorder diagnosed.
At Renew Hormones, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of complex hormonal disorders. Our compassionate doctors take the time to listen to your symptoms and understand your health history. We develop personalized treatment plans that may include bioidentical hormone therapy, medications, nutrition plans, or alternative treatments to restore optimal hormonal balance. Schedule a consultation today to start feeling your best again!
Disorder |
Symptoms |
Treatment |
Hypothyroidism |
Fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, feeling cold |
Synthetic thyroid medication |
Hyperthyroidism |
Unexplained weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, anxiety |
Medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery |
Diabetes |
High blood sugar levels |
Medications, diet, and exercise |
PCOS |
Irregular periods, acne, excessive hair growth, weight gain |
Hormonal birth control pills or other medications |
Early or delayed puberty |
Puberty starts earlier or later than normal |
Depends on underlying cause |
Menopause |
Hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness |
Hormone therapy |
Some key points about hormonal disorders:
- They occur when hormone levels are too high or low
- Common examples include thyroid disorders, diabetes, PCOS, puberty issues, and menopause
- Symptoms are wide-ranging and depend on the hormone affected
- Testing hormone levels through blood or saliva is important for diagnosis
- Treatment depends on the specific disorder but may include medications, hormone therapy, lifestyle changes
- Seeing an endocrinologist who specializes in hormones is recommended
- Clinics like Renew Hormones offer individualized care and a variety of treatment options
Hormone |
Function |
Thyroid hormone |
Regulates metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature |
Insulin |
Regulates blood sugar levels |
Estrogen |
Regulates female reproductive system and menstrual cycle |
Testosterone |
Regulates male reproductive system and muscle mass |
Growth hormone |
Regulates growth and development |
Cortisol |
Regulates stress response |
Proper hormone balance is essential for overall health and wellbeing. If you suspect a hormonal disorder, consult with your doctor for testing and treatment. Specialized clinics like Renew Hormones offer comprehensive care and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve optimal hormonal balance and feel your best.