Hormonal Imbalance

Dr. Anurag Shahi (AIIMS)MBBS,MD

January 03, 2019

May 17, 2022

Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal Imbalance

What is hormonal imbalance?

Disturbance in the normal levels of hormones in the human body is termed as hormonal imbalance. Hormones are chemicals secreted by the endocrine glands of our body. They travel through the bloodstream and deliver messages to the organs, thereby controlling and coordinating their functions. Fluctuations in the hormones either occur naturally during certain phases like pregnancy or with age. The imbalance varies according to the gender and environmental factors as well. Lack of attention to hormonal changes can result in physiological and psychological abnormalities.

What are its main signs and symptoms?

The main signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance depending on the underlying cause are as follows:

Changes in heart rate, blood pressure and blood sugar levels may also be seen with hormonal imbalance.

What are the main causes?

The main causes of hormonal imbalance are:

  • Stress
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Genetic changes
  • Some medications, such as steroids
  • Menopause
  • Pregnancy
  • Birth control pills
  • Autoimmune conditions
  • Improper diet
  • Issues with the thyroid gland – hyper or hypo thyroidism
  • Ageing
  • Certain allergies
  • Medical conditions like polycystic ovarian disease, prolactinoma, over or under functioning of any of the glands ( pituitary, thyroid, ovaries, testes, adrenals, hypothalamus, and parathyroid)

How is it diagnosed and treated?

Apart from a detailed history taking and physical examination, an imbalance in the hormone levels is usually diagnosed by evaluating the results of saliva and serum tests. Tests to detect the levels of sex hormones like testosterone and oestrogen may be ordered. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be required.

Hormonal imbalance is managed based on treating the underlying cause, and is commonly treated by the following methods:

  • Synthetic hormones in the form of pills, creams and patches
  • Hormone replacement therapy
  • An active lifestyle and a healthy diet are advised to help relieve the symptoms of hormonal imbalance
  • Anti-anxiety medications and anti-depressants to help people with anxiety and depression, respectively
  • Hormone antagonists in case of excessive secretion of hormones



References

  1. Lucas Research. [Internet]. Viamark & Red Shark Digital. HORMONE IMBALANCE.
  2. National University of Natural Medicine. [Internet]. Women in Balance Institute. Causes of Hormone Imbalance.
  3. Rush University Medical Center. [Internet]. Congress Parkway Chicago, IL; His and Hers Hormones.
  4. Northwell Health. [Internet]. 1997, Great Neck, NY; 11 unexpected signs of hormonal imbalance
  5. Hormone Health Network. [Internet]. Endocrine Society.Glands & Hormones A-Z.

Doctors for Hormonal Imbalance

Dr. Narayanan N K Dr. Narayanan N K Endocrinology
16 Years of Experience
Dr. Tanmay Bharani Dr. Tanmay Bharani Endocrinology
15 Years of Experience
Dr. Sunil Kumar Mishra Dr. Sunil Kumar Mishra Endocrinology
23 Years of Experience
Dr. Parjeet Kaur Dr. Parjeet Kaur Endocrinology
19 Years of Experience
Consult a Doctor

Medicines for Hormonal Imbalance

Medicines listed below are available for Hormonal Imbalance. Please note that you should not take any medicines without doctor consultation. Taking any medicine without doctor's consultation can cause serious problems.