Hormonal disorders occur when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the body. Hormones are chemicals made by glands and released into the bloodstream. They send messages to other parts of the body telling them what to do. When the body doesn’t have the right levels of hormones, many different symptoms can occur.
Some common hormonal disorders include:
- Hypothyroidism: This is when the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and feeling cold.
- Hyperthyroidism: This is when the thyroid makes too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and anxiety.
- Addison's disease: This is when the adrenal glands do not make enough cortisol and aldosterone. Symptoms include fatigue, muscle weakness, and weight loss.
- Cushing's syndrome: This is when the body makes too much cortisol. Symptoms include weight gain, easy bruising, and upper body obesity.
- Diabetes: This is when the pancreas does not make enough insulin or the body does not use insulin well. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, and blurry vision.
What causes hormonal disorders?
Hormonal disorders can be caused by different factors:
- Problems with glands - The glands that make hormones can sometimes develop problems and not work right. For example, the thyroid gland can become inflamed or have nodules.
- Tumors - Benign or cancerous tumors in glands can make too much or too little hormones.
- Resistance to hormones - Sometimes tissues in the body become resistant to hormones. For example, insulin resistance makes it hard for insulin to work properly.
- Genetics - Inherited genetic defects can affect how glands function. Certain genes are linked to higher risk of hormonal problems.
- Autoimmune disorders - This is when the immune system attacks healthy cells, including glands. Common in thyroid disorders.
How are hormonal disorders diagnosed and treated?
Hormonal disorders are diagnosed through blood tests that check hormone levels, along with imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to look at glands. Treatment depends on the specific disorder:
- Hormone replacement therapy - Taking pills or getting injections to replace low hormone levels. Used for hypothyroidism or Addison's disease.
- Medication - Drugs that change how hormones are produced or block their effects. Common for diabetes and hyperthyroidism.
- Surgery - Removing tumors or parts/all of diseased glands. May be done for thyroid disorders or Cushing's syndrome.
Lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and stress management can also help manage hormonal disorder symptoms. Be sure to visit your doctor if you notice potential symptoms of a hormonal imbalance. They can check your hormone levels and help determine if you have a disorder.
If you think you may have a hormonal disorder, consider getting an evaluation at
Vitality Hormone Clinic. Their caring doctors and nurses provide cutting-edge testing, treatment, and support for all types of hormonal conditions. Using innovative therapies, they help patients restore hormone balance, reverse symptoms, and improve quality of life. Visit hormone-imbalance.com today to learn more and request an appointment!