Causes and symptoms of hormonal imbalance: a complete guide to understanding and action

Hormonal imbalance is a disturbance in the balance of hormones that regulate virtually all bodily functions. From mood to weight, from sleep quality to fertility, everything depends on a stable hormonal background. Women are especially sensitive to changes in the hormonal system, but this problem affects men as well. If you experience unexplained fatigue, mood swings, or skin problems, it's possible that hormones are at fault.

For an accurate diagnosis, it is important to undergo an ultrasound of the thyroid gland, as the thyroid gland plays a key role in hormonal balance. This examination will help identify pathologies that can cause serious health problems.

Main causes of hormonal disruption:

Hormonal disorders can be caused by both external and internal factors. Here are the most common causes:

1. Thyroid gland dysfunction

The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of hormones that regulate metabolism. In case of hypothyroidism, its activity decreases, which slows down all internal processes. In hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, an excessive amount of hormones is produced, which accelerates the functioning of organs and systems. Additionally, the presence of nodules or cysts in the thyroid gland can significantly affect hormone secretion and cause imbalances.

2. Chronic stress

Prolonged stress causes the adrenal glands to constantly produce cortisol, the so-called stress hormone. Its excess depletes the body and negatively affects other hormones, including estrogen, testosterone, and insulin. As a result, both physical and psycho-emotional health suffer.

3. Poor nutrition

Lack of important trace elements, especially iodine, selenium, and vitamin D, disrupts the normal functioning of the endocrine system. In addition, excessive consumption of sugar, trans fats, and processed foods puts an additional burden on metabolic processes, which eventually leads to hormonal disruption.

4. Taking hormonal medications

Certain medications, including oral contraceptives, glucocorticosteroids, and thyroid medication, can cause changes in hormone levels. This is especially true in cases of prolonged or uncontrolled use of such drugs without medical supervision.

5. Puberty, pregnancy, menopause

The physiological changes that occur in the body during key stages of life, such as adolescence, childbearing, or menopause, are inextricably linked to fluctuations in hormone levels. During these periods, the body goes through a complex adaptation that is often accompanied by symptoms of hormonal imbalance.

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance

Symptoms depend on which hormone is out of whack. But there are several common signals that should not be ignored.

The most common symptoms:

• Violation of the menstrual cycle or its absence.
• Sudden weight changes (without a change in lifestyle).
• Exhaustion, apathy, sleep problems.
• Irritability, anxiety, depression.
• Hair loss, dry skin, brittle nails.
• Reduced or increased libido.
• Acne, especially in the lower part of the face.
• Sweating, feeling hot or cold for no reason.

Hormonal disorders in women and men: differences

• Signs of hormonal disorders
• In women
• In men
• Reproductive function
• Irregularity of the cycle, infertility
• Decreased potency, infertility
• Mood
• Frequent changes, tearfulness
• Aggressiveness, decreased motivation
• Physical condition
• Fluid retention, swelling, acne
• Loss of muscle mass, obesity

Diagnosis of hormonal disorders

To accurately determine the source of the problem, you need to undergo a full diagnosis. First of all, the doctor prescribes a blood test for hormones: thyroid (TSH, T3, T4), sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone), as well as cortisol and prolactin. An obligatory stage of the examination is an ultrasound of the thyroid gland, which helps to detect structural changes in the organ - nodes, cysts or diffuse lesions. In addition, it is recommended to check the level of vitamin D, iodine, ferritin and zinc in the body. In cases of suspected pathologies of the pituitary gland, it is advisable to undergo MRI or CT of the brain.

How to normalize hormonal levels

After the diagnosis, the doctor selects an individual treatment regimen. But there are universal steps that will help stabilize hormonal levels:

• Regular sleep: at least 7-8 hours daily.
• A balanced diet high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Physical activity: moderate exercise 3-4 times a week.
• Stress reduction: yoga, meditation, breathing exercises.
• Elimination of bad habits: alcohol, smoking, excessive coffee consumption.

Prevention of hormonal disorders

Prevention of hormonal disorders involves an attentive attitude to your own health and lifestyle. It is recommended to undergo regular thyroid ultrasound, especially after the age of 30. Controlling body weight, a balanced diet with sufficient levels of vitamin D and iodine, limiting sugar and junk food consumption, and timely treatment of chronic diseases significantly reduce the risk of developing endocrine disorders.

When to visit a doctor

You should visit an endocrinologist if you suspect hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, have menstrual irregularities, or observe unexplained changes in body weight. Another warning sign is chronic fatigue that does not disappear even after a good night's sleep. The sooner the diagnosis is made, the more effective it will be to stabilize hormonal levels.

Hormonal failure is not a sentence, but a signal that cannot be ignored. Early diagnostics, in particular, an ultrasound of the thyroid gland, allows you to identify the problem in time and start treatment. Listening to your body, responding to its signals, and taking care of yourself is the main key to hormonal health.

This information is provided for informational purposes only. For an accurate diagnosis and treatment, you should consult a specialist.

Олена Болган