Hormonal Imbalance
Women are subject to unexpected hormonal variations throughout the course of their lives, from puberty to postmenopause. Once they have an in-depth understanding of hormones, it is easy to see how a hormonal imbalance can affect the entire body.
Continue reading to learn all about hormonal imbalance, including causes, symptoms, signs, and more so that you can be on your way to optimal health in no time.
About Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalance occurs when the body produces too much or too little of a certain hormone or group of hormones. Because hormones interact with every cell of the body, an uncalled-for increase or decrease of one can easily cause illness and discomfort.
In women, hormonal imbalance is most commonly caused by abnormal levels of reproductive hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, or testosterone. This can lead to symptoms characteristic of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), menstrual disorders, perimenopause, etc.
However, it is key to keep in mind that hormone levels vary on a daily basis, depending on a woman’s age, stage in the menstrual cycle, and other factors. Also, although hormonal imbalance often occurs during times of reproductive significance, it can arise at any age.
Causes of Hormone Imbalance
• Chronic stress
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Medications
• Tumors
• Genetics
• Poor diet lacking essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients
• Eating disorders
• Environmental pollutants
• Unhealthy habits, like extreme exercise; smoking; excess caffeine and alcohol; illicit drugs; etc.
• Xenoestrogens from cosmetics, plastics, chemicals, etc.
• Thyroid disorders, namely hyper- or hypothyroidism as well as nodules
• Pituitary or adrenal gland conditions (inflammation, surgery)
• Autoimmune diseases
• Chemotherapy
• Hysterectomy (with or without oophorectomy)
• Pregnancy
• Childbirth
• Breastfeeding
• Perimenopause
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Premature or early menopause
• Exogenous hormone use [birth control, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or bioidentical hormones]
Hormonal Imbalance Symptoms
As hormones regulate almost, if not, all key functions of a woman’s body, an imbalance can create a whole host of problems.
While it is true that each woman’s hormonal experience is unique, we have listed some of the most frequently experienced symptoms of hormonal imbalance in women below.
• Hot flashes
• Fatigue
• Acne
• Cramps
• Insomnia
• Loss of libido
• Weight gain
• Bloating
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Headaches
• Joint pain
• Vaginal dryness
• Irregular periods
• Hair loss
• Infertility
• Facial hair growth
• Dry or oily skin
• Tender or fibrocystic breasts
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Signs of Hormonal Imbalance
As opposed to more noticeable symptoms, medical signs are measurable criteria that are usually assessed by a physician.
The following medical signs will most likely be taken into account by a physician when diagnosing hormonal imbalance:
• Abnormal hormone test results
• Low red blood cell count or hemoglobin
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Abnormal bone density reading
• Widening part and thinning hair at the scalp (female pattern hair loss)
• Losing more than 80 mL of blood during a period2
• Fluctuating blood pressure
• Recurrent miscarriages
Hormonal Imbalance Treatments
Although the aftermath of hormonal imbalance can be distressing, there is a wide range of treatment options available, a combination of which can help women get back up and on their feet in no time. Check out our comprehensive guide to hormonal imbalance treatments today for a healthier and more vibrant you!
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