Are Your Symptoms Caused By A Hormone Imbalance?

When your hormone levels are not what they should be, you’ll feel the repercussions in numerous different ways.

Often, the symptoms associated with a hormone imbalance can be attributed to many different conditions, so you may be living with a hormone problem without knowing it.

Healthy and balanced hormone levels are necessary for your overall health, from your mood and energy levels to the proper functioning of your internal organs.

Keep reading to learn more about how to spot a potential hormonal imbalance, and what kinds of natural solutions are available for you and your body.

What Are Hormones?

Every system of your body has specific functions, and they know which functions to perform (and when) thanks to your hormones.

Hormones are like your body’s messengers.

They travel from your endocrine system, through the blood, to your organs and tissues, communicating information that helps your body do its job.

From your brain to your skin to your digestive system, hormones are necessary for proper healthy function.

Typically, if you’re experiencing a hormone imbalance, these processes will be noticeably affected:

• Brain function and mood
• Sexual and reproductive function
• Growth, metabolism, and development

But what specific symptoms are often linked to an imbalance of hormones?

Let’s look at the most common signs you’re experiencing an over- or under-production of certain hormones.

Symptoms Of A Hormonal Imbalance

As hormones play important roles in numerous bodily functions and systems, there are a myriad of symptoms you may feel if your hormone levels are out of whack.

Below are the signs and symptoms often associated with imbalanced hormones.

1. Chronic Fatigue

If it seems like you’re always feeling exhausted, even after a good night’s rest, you may be experiencing chronic fatigue.

Although we all get tired and occasionally our energy crashes throughout the day, chronic fatigue is long-term and, unlike everyday fatigue, it can’t simply be solved with quality sleep.

Hormone imbalances are known to cause chronic fatigue, typically as a result of lacking thyroid hormone or adrenal fatigue.

2. Insomnia

Hormones are important for your sleep quality, which is why insomnia is a common sign you’re experiencing an issue with hormone production.

For an example of how hormones affect sleep: you may have difficulty falling asleep when it’s nearing that time of the month.

This is because menstruation signals a sudden drop in progesterone, a hormone with relaxing properties.

3. Acne

Individuals who menstruate may also attest to the effect hormones have on their skin.

The reason why you may have more (and worse) acne both before and during your period is because of hormonal shifts.

Too much testosterone can also wreak havoc on your skin by over-stimulating oil production.

4. Memory Issues

If you’re finding it harder and harder to recall things both small and important, this memory fog may be due to a hormonal imbalance.

Stress may be the culprit, because it causes your body to produce high levels of cortisol.

This hormone can negatively affect your brain function, especially your memory.

5. Unexplained Weight Gain

One of the symptoms most commonly associated with a hormonal imbalance is weight fluctuation, specifically weight gain.

Hormones play an extremely important role when it comes to maintaining a healthy and consistent weight.

Although there are many other factors such as lifestyle and diet, your endocrine system and thyroid gland also play a huge role.

6. Digestive Disorders

Digestive issues, from gallstones to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), can be caused by various hormone imbalances.

The over-production of cortisol can aggravate your digestive system, while fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone may also be contributing factors.

7. Sexual Dysfunction

It may come as no surprise that hormones are necessary for your sexual health.

Imbalanced estrogen and/or testosterone can lead to low libido, which is known to be one of the most noticeable symptoms of a hormonal imbalance.

Additionally, vaginal dryness and discomfort can be a result of reduced estrogen levels.

8. Headaches

Headaches and migraines may occur more often if you’re suffering from a hormonal imbalance.

These headaches can worsen around certain points of your menstrual cycle.

If you find you’re experiencing recurrent headaches or migraines at the same time every month, consider asking your doctor about a potential hormone imbalance.

9. Anxiety Or Depression

When hormone levels are in flux, your mood and mental wellbeing may be at risk.

Hormones are necessary for your mental health.

Depression, general anxiety, and mood swings are very common symptoms of a hormonal imbalance.

Women nearing their 50s may experience these symptoms for the first time because of their fluctuating hormone levels.

10. Food Cravings

Can’t figure out why you keep going back to the kitchen for odd foods you don’t typically enjoy in excess?

Food cravings are often caused by an issue with your hormone levels.

Insulin resistance, adrenal fatigue, or another hormonal imbalance may be the underlying condition giving you those frustrating cravings.

Book An Appointment With Nardini Naturopathic

Hormone imbalances can be difficult to diagnose, due to the number and variety of possible symptoms.

However, if any of the above symptoms resonate with you, there are natural solutions that can alleviate discomfort and help you get back to feeling your best.

If you have any questions about your hormone levels and how they may be affecting your well-being, contact me, Dr. Pat, at Nardini Naturopathic.

The endocrine system is immensely important for your overall health, and I am a naturopathic doctor with a special interest in endocrine health.

I can work with you to determine a treatment plan specifically made for you, your body’s needs, and your lifestyle.

Together, we can get to the bottom of your symptoms.

Book an appointment with me, Dr. Pat, at Nardini Naturopathic today.