Hormone deficiency, also known as endocrine hypofunction, occurs when the body does not produce enough of a certain hormone. Hormones are chemical messengers that help regulate various bodily functions like metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood. When the body doesn't make enough of a certain hormone, it can cause widespread effects.
Some common signs and symptoms of hormone deficiency include:
- Fatigue and low energy levels - Increase in body fat - Muscle weakness - Hair loss - Skin changes - Mood changes like depression - Low libido - Difficulty concentrating and poor memory
There are a number of potential causes of hormone deficiencies:
- Pituitary disorders - The pituitary gland produces hormones that signal other glands to release hormones. Damage to the pituitary can affect this signaling. - Hypothalamus disorders - The hypothalamus controls the pituitary gland. Any damage can also disrupt hormone production. - Thyroid issues - An underactive thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. - Adrenal insufficiency - The adrenal glands produce cortisol and aldosterone. Low levels cause Addison's disease. - Diabetes - High blood glucose levels can damage glands like the adrenals, pituitary, and thyroid. - Infections - Infections anywhere along the endocrine system can impair hormone production. - Medications - Certain medications like steroids, pain relievers, and tranquilizers affect hormones. - Aging - Hormone production declines naturally with age. - Autoimmune disorders - When the immune system attacks endocrine glands, it can lead to hormone deficiencies.
Some common hormone deficiencies include:
- Growth hormone deficiency - vital for growth and cell reproduction - Thyroid hormone deficiency - regulates metabolism, heart rate, weight, mood, and energy levels - Adrenal insufficiency - cortisol helps regulate blood pressure, metabolism, and stress response - Diabetes insipidus - caused by low vasopressin which controls fluid balance - Hypogonadism - low sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen
If you suspect a hormone deficiency, see your doctor for blood tests. Treatment usually involves hormone replacement therapy to restore optimal hormone levels. For thyroid issues, you may take thyroid medication. Steroid drugs can treat adrenal insufficiency and diabetes insipidus. Hypogonadism may be treated with testosterone or estrogen therapy.
At Hormone Harmony, we specialize in hormone testing and hormone replacement therapy. Our endocrinologists will get to the root cause of your symptoms and craft a customized treatment plan involving medications, nutrition and lifestyle changes. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your evaluation. We accept most major insurance plans.
Let us know if you have any other questions!