Ladies, we know you’re all too familiar with hormones and some of the ways they affect our bodies. Our monthly cycle and all of its symptoms are probably what comes to mind first. But how familiar are you with what happens when your hormones are imbalanced? Do you know what signs to look for?

Our body produces over 50 different hormones that play important roles in regulating various bodily functions, including growth and development, metabolism, reproductive functions, and mood, among others. A hormonal imbalance occurs when your body has too little or too much of certain hormones. If this happens, you may experience symptoms of varying severity and longevity. Hormonal imbalances can also be the cause of diseases such as Diabetes and Thyroid Disease. LunaJoy is here to help you recognize the signs of a hormonal imbalance and what that means for your mental health, learn what symptoms to look for, and what treatment options there are.

Before you begin, remember that our professionals are always here to help

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Back to Basics: What Are Hormones?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, hormones are chemicals that coordinate different bodily functions by carrying messages through your blood to your organs, skin, muscles, and other issues. These signals tell your body what to do and when to do it. The body cannot function properly without hormones.

Your endocrine system is comprised of major glands that produce hormones. The glands are the pituitary, pineal, thymus, thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, and ovaries. The endocrine system controls metabolism, reproduction, homeostasis, sexual function, and circadian rhythm. Hormones are secreted in small amounts, so even a slight change can cause significant effects on the body.

Common Symptoms of a Hormonal Imbalance

There are many types of hormonal imbalances that can occur in the body, but here are some common symptoms you might experience:

Weight gain
Fatigue
Unexplained or sudden weight loss
Muscle weakness
Increased or decreased heart rate
Sweating
Increased sensitivity to cold or heat
Frequent urination
Constipation or diarrhea
Depression
Anxiety
Infertility
Dry skin
Increased thirst
Decreased sex drive
Heavy or irregular periods
Hirsutism
Hyperpigmentation
Acne
Vaginal dryness
Vaginal atrophy

What Causes a Hormonal Imbalance?

It is natural and normal for your hormone levels to fluctuate throughout your life. Certain phases in life can cause changes, such as pregnancy, puberty, or menopause. Also, the use of steroids, certain medications, and stress are known to cause hormone levels to rise or fall. Fortunately, these imbalances are quite fixable and are usually temporary. However, as any woman who has experienced heightened emotional sensitivity during menstruation (or PMS) will know, any hormonal imbalance is likely to cause distress, affecting emotional and mental health.

There are more serious causes of hormonal imbalances, such as tumors, adenomas, other growths, endocrine gland damage, or autoimmune conditions. In this case, the imbalance may be chronic and need more serious treatment.

Hormone-related Conditions

For women, there are several common conditions that arise from hormone imbalances:

Irregular menstruation: Several hormones are involved in our menstrual cycles every month, and changes to the levels can cause irregularities such as missed periods, heavier or lighter bleeding, abnormal spotting, periods that last longer than seven days, and more or less frequent periods. Two conditions that cause this are Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and amenorrhea.
Acne: Hormones can change the amount of oil your skin produces, which can cause clogged pores. Hormonal acne can happen during pregnancy, puberty, or menopause.
Diabetes: If your pancreas does not produce enough insulin or your body does not utilize it properly, you will develop Diabetes. This disease is a chronic condition that requires treatment.
Obesity: Hormones are responsible for signaling hunger and how your body uses the food you eat. When there is an excess of the hormone, Cortisol or a low level of thyroid hormones, obesity could be the outcome.
Thyroid Disease: When thyroid hormone levels are low, the condition is called hypothyroidism. And when thyroid hormone levels are high, it is hyperthyroidism. Both of these conditions are chronic and require treatment.

What Are the Treatment Options?

The treatment plan largely depends on what is causing the imbalance. Some imbalances can be corrected by lifestyle changes such as losing weight, diet changes, taking nutritional supplements, exercising, or lowering stress levels. In imbalances with low hormone levels, a doctor may prescribe medications for hormone replacement. When hormone levels are high, there is also medication, but you may need surgery or radiation in conditions where abnormal growths are the cause of the imbalance.

Hormones & Mental Health

Hormone imbalances can take a significant emotional toll on individuals, impacting their mood, behavior, and overall sense of well-being. For example, women experiencing PMS or menopause-related hormonal changes may experience intense mood swings, irritability, and anxiety, which can be distressing and disruptive to daily life (and relationships). Even the emotional experience of receiving a diagnosis can be challenging, particularly when dealing with a chronic illness or condition. Chronic illnesses can cause physical and emotional symptoms that may impact an individual's quality of life, self-esteem, and relationships.

Coping with the uncertainty and unpredictability of being physically unwell can also be emotionally challenging, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. It is important for individuals experiencing hormone imbalances or illness to seek support from healthcare providers, family, and friends to help them cope with the emotional toll of these experiences.

Find the Support You Need at LunaJoy

Because hormone imbalances are known to lead to depression and anxiety, seeking mental health treatment is essential. When battling with a hormone imbalance, it may also be challenging to deal with the changes in your body, as they can affect your quality of life and even your physical appearance. Therapy is an excellent option for treatment if you are experiencing mental health struggles. Contact us at LunaJoy to schedule an appointment, and let us help you on your journey to wellness.

How to Identify the Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalances