Hormone imbalance occurs when your hormones, which control the majority of your body’s functions, are not balanced properly. Although some imbalances may be temporary, there are others that could develop into chronic conditions if not treated appropriately.
Given the key role hormones play in regulating multiple bodily functions, even a slight imbalance in their levels can lead to a wide range of symptoms, such as:
Some of the common causes behind hormonal imbalances involve environmental, lifestyle, and aging factors.
Hormone production tends to decline as we age, leading to balance issues. In women, it is expected that menopause causes a decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels. In men, the andropause stage usually involves a decline in testosterone levels.
Chronic stress can result in an excess production of cortisol, leading to a significant disruption in hormonal balance.
Medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, diabetes, and adrenal gland disorders, can impact hormone production, secretion, or metabolism.
Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, inadequate sleep, and excessive alcohol or drug use, disrupt the body's natural hormone production and regulation, causing imbalances.
The main female and masculine sex hormones are estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone:
Estrogen is primarily produced by the ovaries and promotes the development and maintenance of female characteristics and the regulation of the menstrual cycle and reproductive system.
Progesterone is produced by the ovaries after ovulation. This hormone is responsible for preparing the lining of the uterus for a fertilized egg, supporting pregnancy, and suppressing estrogen production after ovulation.
Testosterone is produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries. This hormone is responsible for producing sexual desire, regulating the menstrual cycle, and adding strength to the muscles and bones.
Treating a hormonal imbalance will entirely depend on the root causes behind it. For lower-than-normal levels, the usual approach may involve trying oral or injection medication or Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT).
This revolutionary treatment uses processed hormones derived from plants to mimic the hormones naturally produced by your body's glands.
For higher-than-normal hormone levels, treatment options may range from medication and radiation therapy to undergoing a surgical procedure.
While some hormonal imbalance issues can’t be prevented, there are certain strategies you can adopt to improve your overall health, such as:
At PhySlim, our medically assisted wellness programs ensure personalized action plans with ongoing support every step of the way.
To schedule your consultation, book an appointment online or contact any of our locations in Newnan North, Newnan South, and Tallahassee.
