What Can Cause A Hormone Imbalance?

Certain cells and organs in your body are regulated and controlled by chemicals known as hormones. Your hormones regulate and control functions such as growth and development, metabolism, and even various sexual processes. When your hormone levels are out of balance, your overall health can be affected. 

Possible Symptoms 

Women who may be experiencing a hormone imbalance might suffer from such symptoms as:

• Fatigue


• Depression


• Headaches


• Heavy or irregular periods


• Tender breasts


• Hair or bone loss


• Irritability or anxiety


• Sensitivity to cold or heat


• Stiff, tender, or achy muscles


• Stiff, swollen, or tender joints


• Unexplained or sudden weight loss or gain

It is important to remember that since these symptoms are nonspecific you should speak with your primary care physician. Be specific on what is occurring and why you are concerned that it could be something such as a hormonal imbalance. The more detail you provide your doctor with, the easier it will be for him to determine what exactly is the next step in diagnosis and treatment. 

Symptoms such as these may also be indicators for other chronic conditions so, either way, it is always a good idea to speak with your doctor when concerning any changes in your body’s normal state. Your doctor will have a better idea and understanding of what is occurring in your body and how best to treat the issues that you are experiencing and reporting. 

Possible Causes

Stress and weight can both cause imbalances in your body’s hormone levels. If you are chronically stressed, your body may be producing an excess of stress hormones. Weight also can contribute to an imbalance in your hormone levels by affecting your metabolism. Obesity can also be linked to diabetes which is another issue that can affect the hormone levels in your body. 

There are also a number of hormone disruptors that can be environmental or items that you have consumed. These external elements can contain certain properties or chemicals which affect your body’s endocrine system which creates and delivers hormones all throughout your body. Thes disruptors could include foods you eat, medications you take, or even personal care or household cleaning items. 

Possible Treatments

Hormone therapy options can sometimes be as simple as applying a cream or taking a tablet orally every day. Creams are simply applied to the skin for absorption. Other forms may include gels, patches, or even injections, depending on the form of therapy that your doctor believes would benefit you best. 

Other, more natural remedies to dealing with a hormone imbalance may be as simple as changing or adding to your everyday lifestyle. Weight loss can be beneficial in regulating menstrual cycles. And a balanced diet is a great option for overall health. Many people have also reported yoga as helping ease the symptoms of hormonal imbalances, as well as helping with weight loss. 

Be Informed And Prepared

Whether you are experiencing a hormonal imbalance or not, it is generally a good idea to visit your doctor regularly. This enables you to stay ahead of any surprising issues that may occur and allows your doctor to have a regular history of the changes your body may be going through. 

It is always a good idea to trust your gut and get in contact with your doctor as soon as you begin to feel anything that doesn’t feel normal. Additionally, if you feel that something is wrong but your doctor continues to insist that nothing is wrong, it is never a bad idea to get a second opinion.