Hormonal disorders occur when there is too much or too little of a certain hormone in the body. Hormones are chemicals that regulate many essential bodily functions like growth, metabolism, reproduction, etc.
Some common hormonal disorders include:
- Thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism where the thyroid gland produces too little or too much thyroid hormones. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, mood issues etc.
- Diabetes which occurs when the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels due to low/no insulin production (Type 1 diabetes) or the body's ineffective use of insulin (Type 2 diabetes). Unmanaged blood sugar can over time lead to serious damage of eyes, kidneys, heart and nerves.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which results from unbalanced reproductive hormones in women. Symptoms include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, obesity etc. It can also cause infertility issues.
- Pituitary disorders originate when the pituitary gland in the brain produces increased or decreased hormones. Effects include changes in growth patterns, blood pressure, lactation, fertility etc. depending on which pituitary hormone is affected.
- Adrenal disorders like Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease disrupt production of adrenal hormones like cortisol. Effects involve severe fatigue, blood sugar/blood pressure changes, bone loss and more.
The root causes behind hormonal issues vary widely – from tumors of the endocrine glands, to autoimmune diseases, to genetic conditions present since birth. Complex feedback loops control natural hormone production, so imbalance in one area throws the whole system into disarray over time.
Diagnosis typically begins with a thorough review of characteristic symptoms coupled with blood or urine tests to check actual hormone levels. Sometimes imaging scans like CT/MRI may be required to detect tumors or tissue growths interfering with normal endocrine function. Once the underlying trigger is found through testing, appropriate
treatment can be initiated – like hormone replacement therapies, medications, endocrine surgery options or radiation/chemotherapy for cancerous growths.
Living with chronic hormone issues can be challenging, but being informed and proactive helps patients better self-manage their condition. Maintaining an optimal nutrition and exercise routine also assists the endocrine system reach hormonal balance naturally. Finally, finding a good endocrinologist/hormone specialist at Revive Health & Wellness for ongoing care is key to regulating symptoms more effectively in the long run. Monitoring and promptly addressing any related changes is crucial for preventing complications down the road.