What is hormone deficiency?
A hormone deficiency occurs when your body does not produce enough of a certain hormone. Hormones are chemicals made by glands and released into the bloodstream. They send signals to other parts of your body to help regulate bodily functions.
Some common hormone deficiencies include:
- Thyroid hormone deficiency: The thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. This can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold.
- Growth hormone deficiency: The pituitary gland makes little or no growth hormone. Children may have growth problems and adults can have muscle weakness, tiredness, and more body fat.
- Testosterone deficiency: Low testosterone levels can lead to reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, decreased bone mass, and other issues in men.
- Estrogen deficiency: In women, low estrogen levels can cause hot flashes, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis, and emotional changes during menopause.
What causes hormone deficiencies?
Hormone deficiencies can be primary or secondary.
- Primary deficiencies mean the gland itself does not work correctly. This could be from autoimmune diseases, infections, tumors, radiation treatments, or other causes.
- Secondary deficiencies occur when the gland's signals are disrupted. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain tell other glands to release hormones. If they are damaged, it can prevent proper signals from being sent.
How are hormone deficiencies diagnosed?
If symptoms suggest a possible hormone deficiency, a doctor will order blood tests to check hormone levels. Results outside the normal range indicate a deficiency may exist. They may also examine factors like age, risk factors, and medications being taken.
Additional tests can help pinpoint the location or cause of the deficiency in some cases. These may include MRI scans, genetic testing, or stimulation tests to see how well the glands respond.
How are hormone deficiencies treated?
Treatment depends on the specific hormone deficiency. Some options include:
- Hormone replacement therapy: Taking supplements of the deficient hormone, such as thyroid medication, testosterone therapy, or growth hormone injections. This must be closely monitored by a doctor.
- Medications: Drugs that stimulate the deficient gland or address related health issues may be prescribed.
- Lifestyle changes: Adjusting diet, sleep, exercise, and stress levels can help manage some hormone deficiency symptoms.
If you think you may have a hormone deficiency, the experts at Hormone Health Clinic can help! Their cutting-edge diagnostic testing precisely pinpoints deficiencies. Custom treatment plans address imbalances through bioidentical hormones, nutrition plans, and holistic therapies. Contact them today to regain your vitality!