Hormonal Imbalance Causes and Symptoms

What Causes Hormonal Imbalance?

A hormone imbalance also referred to as endocrinopathy, is a condition that affects a persons endocrine system, which then leads to a disturbance in the production of hormones. A hormone imbalance can lead to either an increase or a decrease in the levels of different hormones within the body. An imbalance of this nature ultimately gives rise to several health related problems. There are a large number of hormones produced within our bodies, each performing a very different and distinct task; some may be responsible for triggering ovulation while some may be in charge of producing digestive enzymes. The endocrine glands are the ones that generate these chemical messengers; a group of glands which make up our endocrine system. When an individual suffers from a hormonal imbalance, a gland either produces too little or too much of a particular hormone, or some kind of an endocrine disruptor present within the body hampers the functioning of a certain hormone.

Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance

A large number of factors could lead to such a condition, including diseases, cancers, and an exposure to various kinds of toxins. Symptoms of a hormonal imbalance will vary depending on the level of the disruption, as well as the hormones that have been affected. Some of the symptoms of endocrinopathy are; fatigue or tiredness, hair loss, digestive problems, loss of appetite, nausea, a loss of one’s libido and so on. This condition is brought about in women when the balance between the two female hormones, progesterone and estrogen, is disrupted. These two hormones strike a very delicate balance within the female body and anything that alters or interferes with this delicate balance may at times lead to serious consequences. In women this condition could start as early as the age of 20, gradually increasing with age.

Fibrocystic breasts, reduced sex drive, endometriosis, depression, stress and anxiety, increase in the growth of facial hair, osteoporosis, urinary tract infections, premature wrinkling and weight gain are some of the symptoms of a hormonal imbalance in women. A healthy lifestyle coupled with a nutritious diet is essential, in order to combat this situation. Chemicals are known to interfere with the hormonal functions, thus try and watch what you eat. Reduce the intake of dairy products and meat. Consume foods that are organic and unprocessed, simply because they have less pesticides, herbicides and chemicals. Fruits and green leafed vegetables are very beneficial when it comes to treating hormone imbalances.