What is hormonal imbalance?
Hormones are your body's chemical messengers that affect almost every part of life, including metabolism, mood, muscle growth, sexual function, and more. There are over 50 known types of hormones in the human body. Some familiar examples of hormones include:
- Insulin (from the pancreas)
- Estrogen (from the ovaries)
- Progesterone (from the ovaries)
- Testosterone (from the testes)
A hormonal imbalance happens when your body makes too much or too little of one or more of these hormones. "Even small fluctuations in your hormone levels can cause noticeable changes in how you feel and function," says Karla T. Waller, MD, Ob/Gyn at ARC Medical Plaza Specialty. "Both males and females can experience hormonal imbalance, but it's especially common in women during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause."
What causes hormonal imbalance?
There are many possible causes of hormonal imbalance. Some are medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, autoimmune conditions, and diabetes. Other factors can include medications, such as birth control pills, corticosteroids, and antidepressants. And yet other common triggers include natural life stages like menopause, pregnancy, and puberty, as well as simple lifestyle issues like stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep.
"It's important to note that hormonal imbalances can be complex and may have multiple underlying causes," says Dr. Waller.
What are the symptoms of hormonal imbalance?
The symptoms of a hormonal imbalance can vary as widely as the causes, depending on which hormones are affected. Some common signs include:
Menstrual changes
- Irregular or missed periods
- Early or late menopause
Mood changes
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Irritability
Physical changes
- Hair loss
- Skin problems like acne or dryness
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Hot flashes
Other symptoms
- Fatigue or low energy
- Infertility or trouble conceiving
- Vaginal atrophy or dryness affecting sexual function
- Headaches
- Joint pain
- Digestive problems
How are hormonal imbalances diagnosed and treated?
Hormonal imbalance is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests (most commonly blood work and urinalysis).
The treatment for hormonal imbalance depends on the specific hormone involved and the underlying cause of the imbalance. Your doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC) may recommend:
- Birth control or other medication to regulate hormone levels.
- Estrogen or other hormone therapy for menopausal changes.
- Healthy lifestyle habits, such as managing stress, staying active, and eating a balanced diet.
"With the right therapy and support, most people can find relief and restore balance to their hormones—improving both their health and quality of life," says Dr. Waller.
Make an appointment today
Dr. Waller is accepting new patients ages nine and older at ARC Medical Plaza Specialty in Cedar Park. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Waller online, through ARC MyChart, or call ARC Medical Plaza Specialty at 512-260-1581.