A hormone imbalance occurs when there are too much or too little of certain hormones in the body. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid hormones, insulin and cortisol help regulate many functions including metabolism, growth, reproduction, mood and more.
Signs of hormone imbalance can include irregular periods, acne, fatigue, trouble sleeping, weight gain or trouble losing weight, low libido and mood changes like anxiety and depression. However, symptoms can be complex and overlap with other conditions.
There are several potential root causes of hormone issues, including:
If you suspect hormonal issues, it's important to see your doctor for blood tests. These may check levels of:
Tracking your cycle and symptoms on a monthly calendar can also help identify patterns suggestive of hormonal imbalance.
Comparisons to optimal lab reference ranges for your age and gender allows for proper interpretation of your results. For example, estrogen declining with age may be normal, but still contribute to unpleasant menopause symptoms.
Depending on what underlies your hormonal irregularities, treatment options could include lifestyle measures, specific medications or hormone replacement therapy. I specialize in evidence-based, customized plans to help patients address root causes and support the body's innate healing abilities.
Diet, exercise, stress management and high quality sleep are critical for optimal hormonal health. Nutrient deficiencies can also disrupt hormone regulation - I often recommend targeted nutritional supplements based on unique patient needs and test results.
Don't struggle with unexplained symptoms or a suboptimal quality of life - get to the root of what's causing your hormone imbalance. I offer advanced testing and provide science-backed natural therapies for hormonal optimization.