Hormones are the brain’s messengers, chemical couriers that transmit orders to your body’s systems to regulate and control organ operations. With everything that a woman’s body needs to do, it’s a wonder hormone issues aren’t even more common than they are.
Hormonally controlled body functions include everything from anxiety and appetite to sleep patterns and stress, with stops along the way for libido and reproduction. With latitude of responsibility, hormone deficiency and imbalance can show its face in many ways.
Below are 10 common symptoms and signs you may be experiencing hormone deficiency. Contact Radiance Wellness MediSpa when it’s time to investigate hormone issues in greater depth.
1. Headaches
While there are many reasons why you might have a headache, you may have clues that declining estrogen is the culprit. Headaches that coincide with your menstrual cycle suggest that the variance of hormones through the month stresses your system.
2. Mood swings
Estrogen levels influence the way neurotransmitters like serotonin work. The mood changes you feel with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), perimenopause, and menopause may block the chemical boost you usually get from serotonin.
3. Sleep disorders
Progesterone deficiency may be a contributor to insomnia. Even if you get to sleep normally, low levels of this hormone could make it harder for you to stay asleep. Additionally, hot flashes and night sweats are perhaps the best-known nighttime symptoms of menopause caused by low levels of estrogen.
4. Skin problems
When acne returns long after adolescence, it’s often due to dropping levels of estrogen and progesterone. Dry and itchy skin may also tie into a hormone imbalance.
5. Weight gain
Your ovaries are your primary estrogen-makers. When you have a condition that affects your ovaries, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), your hormones become unbalanced and you could experience unexplained weight gain. Hormones also influence thyroid performance, affecting body metabolism.
6. Low libido
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, but it’s also the chemical behind your sex drive. If you find that desire isn’t at its usual levels, testosterone deficiency might be the reason.
7. Period changes
If your normally regular schedule starts to change, hormones are likely to blame. Your cycle could be longer, shorter, or irregular, and menstrual bleeding may be heavier or lighter. Discomfort and pain associated with menstruation may vary, too.
8. Vaginal dryness
When estrogen levels drop, changes to the tissue of your vaginal walls could include thinning and reduced ability to produce natural lubrication with arousal. Urinary issues could also develop.
9. Fertility issues
PCOS often causes problems with fertility, but it’s not the only hormone-related issue. Low levels of luteinizing hormone and high levels of follicle-stimulating hormone also interfere with egg release.
10. Breast changes
Changes in breast density could trace back to estrogen production. High levels increase dense breast tissue and low levels cause decreases.
Treatment options are available to level out fluctuating hormones and treat symptoms. When breast changes accompany other symptoms, it’s time to contact Dr. Carrie Morris and her team at Radiance Wellness MediSpa. Call the most convenient Texas location directly, or use our online booking tool to schedule your consultation. It’s time for you to regain control over your body.