Hormones are chemicals that your body naturally produces to regulate growth, reproduction, blood pressure, energy, hunger, and a broad range of other processes. Released by the endocrine system, hormones are essential to the body’s day-to-day functioning.  

Unfortunately, various factors can throw the hormones out of balance. Six common signs of a hormonal imbalance include:

Unexplained Weight Gain or Weight Loss

Fluctuating hormone levels can alter how your body retains or loses weight. Conditions including menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, and endometriosis are conditions that can cause hormonal weight gain. Hyperthyroidism can cause hormonal weight loss. 

Depression or Anxiety

Your endocrine system and nervous system work together to keep your body in balance. So, imbalanced endocrine hormones can impact your mental health. Hyperthyroidism, adult-onset growth hormone deficiency, and Cushing’s syndrome are types of hormonal imbalances that can cause anxiety and/or depression. 

Low Libido

In both men and women, sex hormone imbalances can lead to low libido, sex drive. Women may experience other symptoms, including vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy, that lead to painful sex. Men may experience erectile dysfunction with hormonal imbalances.  

Fatigue

Fatigue is a very common symptom of a hormonal imbalance. Imbalanced levels of cortisol, progesterone, and thyroid hormone can deplete your energy levels, leaving you feeling tired throughout the day. 

Dry Skin and Hair

Particularly in women, dry skin and hair often accompany hormonal imbalances. Thyroid hormone, cortisol, and estrogen (in women) all contribute to the health of your skin. 

Gastrointestinal Problems

Fluctuating hormones can affect how food moves through your digestive system. So, in some cases, hormonal imbalances lead to symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea. 

At The Center for Natural & Integrative Medicine, we offer a holistic approach to symptoms of hormonal imbalance. By combining the benefits of natural and conventional medicine, we can help you achieve relief from the symptoms listed above. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!