Hormones are chemicals secreted by the endocrine cells which help in various body functions like digestion, growth, and reproduction (Endocrine System). The hormones regulate many metabolic rates, sleep patterns, heart rate, etc. These glands produce different types of hormones. Some examples include thyroid gland-produces thyroxine hormone, adrenal gland-produces cortisol, pancreas-produces insulin, etc. You need hormones for normal body functions, but there are times when the body produces too much or too little of any particular hormone. This is known as hormone imbalance. A hormone imbalance may cause various side effects that need treatment by a specialist in hormone imbalances in San Diego if you have a hormone imbalance. We look at some of them below.
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Hair Loss
Hormone imbalance can cause hair loss. The most common hormone responsible for this condition is Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This hormone causes the hair follicles to shrink, causing thinning of hair. Although many reasons may cause this condition, an imbalance of certain hormones can also lead to balding.
Hair loss is mainly seen in men, although it also affects women. Hormone imbalance can cause hair to change texture, become dry or fall out. Insulin plays a significant role in influencing the blood circulation around the scalp, leading to certain hormones being secreted at abnormally high levels.
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Stress
Stress is a normal response of the body to external stimuli. When you are under stress, your body releases hormones like cortisol, causing the secretion of glucose by the liver, increased heart rate, etc. Hormones help deal with anxiety or fear, which is essential for survival.
However, chronic stress situations lead to hormone imbalance and eventually cause side effects. When you are stressed for a long time, your adrenal glands produce excess cortisol. This excess increases the blood sugar level, heart rate, and blood pressure.
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Mood Disorders
Hormone imbalance can also contribute to mood disorders. Cortisol is the primary hormone associated with stress and anxiety. When you are stressed or anxious, your adrenal glands produce cortisol which causes side effects like jitters, irritability, etc.
The hormone progesterone is vital for regulating stress levels in women during menstrual cycles. Studies show that women with low progesterone levels are more likely to develop anxiety or depression.
These factors can cause mood swings leading to severe psychological problems like anxiety and depression.
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Fertility Problems
Hormone imbalance can cause fertility problems in both men and women. Women experiencing menstrual cycle abnormalities, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or irregular periods may have hormone imbalances. Low gonadotropin levels (hormones secreted by the pituitary gland) are associated with low fertility in women.
Testosterone levels play a significant role in sexual health and reproduction in men. Low levels of the sex hormone can cause low libido and infertility.
Many studies show that it’s not just about testosterone or estrogen but also the balance between these two hormones plays a vital role in sexual health. When you have a hormone imbalance, your sexual health suffers, and so does your overall well-being.
In summary, hormone imbalance refers to a state where your body produces too much or too little hormones. Hormone imbalances cause side effects such as fertility issues, mood disorders, stress, and hair loss.
