What is hormone imbalance?
A hormone imbalance occurs when there are too much or too little of certain hormones in the body. Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate many of the body's processes, so an imbalance can negatively affect both physical and mental health. Some key things to know about hormone imbalance:
- Symptoms - Common signs of hormone imbalance include irregular periods, night sweats, fatigue, trouble sleeping, changes in libido, mood swings, and more. In women, the most affected hormones are estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. In men, the most impacted hormone is testosterone.
- Causes - Hormone imbalances can stem from pregnancy, stress, poor diet, thyroid disorders, and other medical conditions. Aging, genetics, and environmental toxicity can also play a role. Pay attention if you have risk factors.
- Risk factors - For females, menopause and perimenopause are high-risk times. PCOS and endometriosis carry risk too. For males, low T becomes increasingly common with age. Other risks include obesity and certain medications.
- Treatment - Depending on the cause, treatment may include lifestyle changes, medication, HRT (hormone replacement therapy), or supplements. Getting enough sleep and exercise while reducing stress and avoiding toxins like BPA can help restore balance. An endocrinologist can test and assess your hormone levels to determine the best course of treatment.