Hormones

Common Health Conditions Linked to Hormonal Imbalances

Hormone problems can affect anyone, and may result in:

• Diabetes – Imbalance of insulin (pancreas)

• Hypothyroidism/Hyperthyroidism – Too little or too much thyroid hormone

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Female hormone imbalance

• Menopause and Andropause – Natural hormone decline with age

• Growth Disorders – Due to pituitary dysfunction

• Adrenal Disorders – Like Addison’s disease or Cushing’s syndrome

• Infertility – Hormonal causes in both men and women

• Depression or Anxiety – Linked to cortisol or serotonin imbalances

 

Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalances

Symptoms depend on the hormone affected, but may include:

• Fatigue or weakness

• Unexplained weight gain or loss

• Mood swings, anxiety, or depression

• Irregular periods or fertility issues

• Hair loss or excess hair growth

• Acne or oily skin

• Hot flashes or night sweats

• Sleep problems

• Low libido

 

Types of Hormonal Treatments

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

• Used in menopause, low testosterone, or thyroid disorders

• Examples: Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone, Thyroxine (T4)

2. Medications to Block or Adjust Hormones

• Anti-thyroid drugs (e.g., Methimazole)

• Insulin or Metformin for diabetes

• Corticosteroids for adrenal insufficiency

3. Lifestyle Interventions

• Diet, stress reduction, exercise can support hormone balance

• Weight management helps with insulin and reproductive hormones

 

Side Effects of Hormone Treatments

TreatmentSide Effects

EstrogenBlood clots, breast tenderness

TestosteroneAcne, mood changes, high red blood cells

Thyroid HormonesHeart palpitations, anxiety (if overcorrected)

CorticosteroidsWeight gain, high blood pressure, bone thinning

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Diagnosis of Hormone Disorders

• Blood tests (thyroid panel, insulin, cortisol, sex hormones)

• Urine or saliva tests (for adrenal and reproductive hormones)

• Ultrasounds or scans (to check gland size or tumors)

• Physical exams and symptom history

 

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