A hormonal imbalance occurs when the levels of hormones in your body are not within a healthy range.
Let us discuss what hormonal imbalance is, it’s reasons, symptoms, and treatments associated with it. We’ll also explore how it is diagnosed and lifestyle changes to help manage this condition.
Read on to learn more about hormonal imbalance treatment and how to work towards a better-balanced lifestyle.
Understanding hormonal imbalance
Hormonal imbalance is not uncommon, especially for women. It occurs when there is an imbalance of the body’s hormones. Several things, including stress, diet, and underlying medical conditions, can cause hormonal imbalances.
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance can vary depending on the individual. If you are dealing with any of these following signs, it’s important to see your doctor to rule out other possible causes and to discuss treatment options.
Signs and symptoms of a hormonal imbalance
A hormonal imbalance occurs when there is a discrepancy between the levels of hormones in the body. This can happen for several reasons, including stress, diet, and certain medical conditions. Hormonal imbalances can cause a variety of symptoms, some of which are listed below:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain or loss
- Muscle weakness
- Joint pain
- Abnormal hair growth or loss
- Irritability
- Depression
- Sleep problems
- Hot flashes or night sweats
- Infertility
- Irregular periods
There are several options for treatment that can help alleviate your symptoms and restore your hormone levels to normal.
Causes of hormonal imbalance
A hormonal imbalance occurs when there is a discrepancy between the levels of hormones in the body. The hormonal imbalance causes can involve different factors, including:
–Aging: As we age, our hormone levels naturally decline. This can lead to many issues, from hot flashes to weight gain.
–Pregnancy: Pregnancy can cause a major hormone shift, leading to morning sickness, mood swings, and more.
–Stress: Stress can cause an increase in the hormone cortisol, which can wreak havoc on the rest of the body and is one of the most causes of hormonal imbalance. This can lead to weight gain, anxiety, and even depression.
–Diet: An unhealthy diet can contribute to hormone imbalances. For example, consuming too much sugar can cause insulin resistance, leading to metabolism and energy level problems. An unhealthy diet and an inactive lifestyle are major causes of hormonal imbalance.
Tests and diagnosis
The testing for hormonal imbalances depends on the suspected underlying condition causing the symptoms. Here are some of the common tests that a doctor may use:
- Blood testing: This involves measuring the levels of certain hormones in the blood, such as estrogen, testosterone, or thyroid hormone.
- Imaging: This method uses imaging studies like X-ray, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests to spot cysts or tumors that could lead to excess hormone production in the body.
- Urine testing: This test measures hormone levels specifically related to the menstrual cycle, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
It is worth noting that some companies offer at-home testing kits, which allow individuals to take tests at home. These tests may involve the use of urine or blood samples. However, ensure to follow the instructions and purchase from a reliable company.
Hormonal imbalance treatment
When dealing with hormonal imbalance, you may often seek the answer to the notorious question – “is hormonal imbalance curable?” Depending on the root causes of hormonal imbalance, there are a host of treatment and management options. Some of them are:
Estrogen treatment
If you’re having hot flashes or other menopausal symptoms, your doctor may advise you to take a modest dose of estrogen.
Make sure to talk to an expert about the dangers and advantages of hormone replacement treatment (HRT). Hormonal imbalance in women is a common issue and must be given medical attention for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Vaginal estrogen
If you have vaginal dryness or soreness during sex, use an estrogen cream, pill, or ring.
Several of the hazards associated with systemic estrogen, or estrogen that travels all through the bloodstream to the proper organ, are reduced by this local therapy.
Hormonal birth control
Hormonal birth control can aid in the regulation of your menstrual cycles. Hormonal birth control methods include the following:
- Birth control patch
- Birth control pill
- Birth control shot
- Vaginal ring
Certain hormonal birth control methods may also help improve acne and remove excess hair on hormonal birth control methods for the face and body.
Anti-androgen therapy
Androgens are male sex hormones found in persons of all genders. Medication that blocks the effects of androgens can be used to treat high androgen levels.
Among these effects are the following:
- Hair loss
- Acne
- Facial hair growth
Testosterone is an androgen that is directly linked to hair growth and loss. A 2020 research study According to a reliable source, hair loss and lack of growth are prevalent when not enough testosterone is created.
Testosterone treatment
Low testosterone symptoms can be alleviated with testosterone supplements. It promotes the onset of puberty in teenagers with delayed puberty. It comes in various forms, including injections, a patch, and gel.
Thyroid hormone treatment
If you have hypothyroidism, the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine (Levoxyl, Synthroid, Unithroid) can help you rebalance your hormone levels.
Metformin
Metformin is a type 2 diabetes drug that may benefit some people with PCOS symptoms. The FDA has not approved it for treating PCOS, but it may help lower testosterone levels and promote ovulation.
Weight loss and lifestyle changes
Weight loss and exercise are touted as the best treatment for hormonal imbalance. Some of the options that may help are:
- Consuming a low-carb and low-dairy diet
- Eating a nutritious and balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
- Reducing and managing stress
Consult Endoworld today for guided treatment options
Endoworld Hospital is a renowned hospital in Aurangabad. Endoworld has a team of skilled doctors who will guide you toward understanding the root causes of your hormonal imbalance and offer the right treatment.
