What is a hormonal imbalance?
A hormonal imbalance is when the hormones in your body are not at the correct levels. Sometimes this is called a hormone disorder or endocrine disorder.
Hormones are chemicals that are released from glands in your body. They send messages to your body which keep your body running smoothly in the areas of:
- Growth and development
- Using and storing food for energy
- Sexual health
- Reproduction
- Mood
Hormone problems can also be a sign of a more serious illness or cancer. The most common hormone disorder is diabetes. Other disorders include:
- Adrenal insufficiency- When the adrenal gland releases too little hormones
- Cushing’s disease- When the adrenal gland releases too much hormone. This can also be caused by taking steroid medicines.
- Gigantism or other growth problems- When the pituitary gland releases too much or too little growth hormone
- Hypo or hyperthyroidism- When the thyroid releases too little or too much hormone.
What are the symptoms of hormonal imbalance?
It only takes small change in hormone levels to cause problems. The symptoms of hormone disorders vary depending on the type of disorder and glands involved. Most people with a hormone imbalance feel tired or weak.
How are hormonal imbalances treated?
If your doctor suspects you have a hormone imbalance, he or she may refer you to an endocrinologist. The endocrinologist may do blood or urine tests to check your hormone levels. You may also need imaging to see if there is a tumor or other growth on your glands.
