Hormones are like the tiny workers that work behind the scene of the different biochemical processes of the body. Hormones are produced in the endocrine gland and the instruct the body to carry out different processes. Hormones are present in the different organs and tissues of the body instructing them on what to do and when to do it.
Since hormones are a very delicate part of the different processes of the body, a shift in their concentration distorts the way the body carries out its activities. Hormonal imbalance occurs when a hormone is lower or higher than its required amount. The delicate nature of hormones ensures that the smallest shifts in the concentration of hormones are noted.
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance
When hormones are available in concentrations that are more or less than their required concentration, several symptoms are noticeable. The symptoms of hormonal imbalance depend on the hormone and the process which the hormone controls.
Generally, there are certain symptoms that indicate hormonal imbalance. The general symptoms that indicate hormonal imbalance are as follows: weight gain, fatigue, puffy face, frequent urination and depression, amongst others.
Hormonal imbalance also displays certain features in women, men and children. This is because certain hormones are responsible for some specific biochemical processes in men, women and children
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in men
For men, hormonal imbalance is related to the production of testosterone. Testosterone is the hormone that directs most development processes in men. When the level of testosterone in one’s body is more or less than required, it is manifested in several symptoms which include infertility, hot flashes, development of tender breasts, loss of muscle tone and lack of concentration, amongst other symptoms.
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in children
Children that experience delayed may also experience hypogonadism. Since puberty is the time where children develop sex hormones, hypogonadism is manifested in symptoms related to sexual development. In girls, symptoms of hypogonadism include stunted growth, lack of breast tissues and menstrual periods.
For boys, hypogonadism is manifested in lack of features developed at puberty such as increased muscle tone, deepening voice and increased growth of body hairs.
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in women
Hormonal imbalance in women is mostly manifested as polycystic ovary syndrome. This syndrome is manifested in several symptoms such as period irregularity, excess hair on the face and other parts of the body, acne, night sweats and vaginal dryness.
Causes of hormonal imbalance
Hormonal imbalance is caused by conditions which involve the over and under secretion of certain hormones. Causes of hormonal imbalance include hormone therapy, hypogonadism, stress, thyroiditis, pregnancy and menopause amongst other conditions.
Diagnosis of hormonal imbalance
Apart from physical examinations based on symptoms one experiences, there are other ways of diagnosing hormonal imbalance which include blood tests, ultrasound and biopsy.
When diagnosed, hormonal imbalance can be treated in several ways which include the use of birth control pills and hormone therapy.
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