Hormonal imbalances happen when there is too much or too little of a hormone in the blood. This condition affects men and women alike and has different symptoms, such as lower sex drive, acne, and weight changes.
In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of hormonal imbalances and the best way to handle the condition.
Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal balance symptoms vary depending on whether the affected person is male or female:
Female Symptoms
In women, the most common symptoms include:
● Mood swings
● Irregular menstrual cycle
● Low sex drive
● Unexplained weight gain
Male Symptoms
When men have low testosterone levels, the symptoms include:
● Loss of muscle mass
● Erectile dysfunction (ED)
● Tenderness in the chest area
Weight Gain
Hormonal imbalances affect multiple body processes, leading to weight gain. These include:
● Decreasing estrogen levels can result in weight gain during menopause.
● Thyroid hormones regulate the body’s metabolism and how it burns energy. If they are too few, it can slow metabolism and lead to weight gain.
Hair Loss
Male pattern hair loss has been linked to reduced androgen hormones, like testosterone. This is why the condition is called androgenetic alopecia.
However, not all males experience this condition, even though their hormone levels change as they age. Concerning this, doctors have concluded that some men are genetically predisposed to hair loss.
Causes of Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalances commonly occur when the endocrine glands aren’t functioning properly. These glands produce, store, and release hormones into your body. There are several endocrine glands throughout your body for controlling different organs, including:
● Pineal gland
● Pituitary gland
● Adrenal glands
Medical Conditions
Several medical conditions can also affect hormone production, including:
● Addison’s disease
● Diabetes
● Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism
Additional Causes
Other causes of hormonal imbalance include:
● Chronic stress
● Being overweight
● Poor diet and nutrition
How to Fix Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal treatments may vary depending on the gender of the affected person:
Treatment for Females
Female treatment options include:
● Hormone or birth control
● Hormone replacement medications
● Anti-androgen medications
● Assisted reproductive technology
Treatment for Males
The primary male treatment option is testosterone medication. This can be gels or patches containing testosterone, which assist in reducing symptoms of hypogonadism.
Conclusion
Hormonal imbalances often happen during menstruation, pregnancy, puberty, and aging. It can also be caused by medical conditions that affect the endocrine system or glands. However, external factors like stress or hormone medications could be responsible.
If you’re dealing with hormonal imbalance, you should consult your doctor on the best treatment methods for your condition.
