Hormone Imbalances in Men vs. Women
Hormonal imbalances can affect overall health and well-being in a wide range of ways. But it may be difficult for many of us to determine if the symptoms we’re experiencing are due to our hormones being out of sync. So, what are common hormonal imbalance symptoms? What are the warning signs to be wary of? What exactly can you do to correct imbalances and alleviate symptoms?
Before understanding what a hormonal imbalance is, it’s important to understand what hormones are. Hormones are chemicals produced by the glands in the endocrine system secreted directly into the bloodstream. They act like messengers that send messages to the organs of the body. They regulate a large number of processes such as blood pressure, appetite, sexual function, sleep cycles, metabolism, and more. Hormonal imbalances happen when there’s too much or too little of a hormone, leading to a series of unwanted symptoms.
Biologically speaking, hormones define gender. Although both women and men share the same hormones, the difference lies in their blood concentrations and how they interact with different organs. Besides other hormones like insulin, growth hormones, adrenaline, and steroids, women are usually prone to imbalances in estrogen levels while men are more prone to testosterone imbalances.
Because hormones tend to affect women and men differently, hormonal imbalance symptoms may also manifest differently.
Symptoms in Men
– Unexpected weight loss
– Heat and cold sensitivity
– Low sex drive
– Erectile dysfunction
– Abnormal sweating
– Gynecomastia (enlargement of breast tissue)
– Increased thirst
– Frequent urination
– Prolonged fatigue
– Dry skin
These hormonal imbalance symptoms are caused by four primary types of hormonal imbalances in men – andropause, also known as male menopause caused by low testosterone levels, adrenal fatigue, hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
Symptoms in Women
– Irregular or painful periods
– Vaginal dryness
– Infertility
– Acne
– Low sex drive
– Clitoral enlargement
– Breast tenderness
– Hot flashes
– Osteoporosis
– Prolonged fatigue
– Weight gain
Hormonal imbalances in women may be caused by birth control medication, ovarian cancer, polycystic ovary syndrome, early menopause, and more.
Treatment Options
Hormonal imbalances can be regulated naturally by eating enough protein, fatty fish, and healthy fats; exercising often; managing stress; avoiding alcohol, sugars, and refined carbs; or taking medication prescribed by your doctor.
Hormonal therapy medication is usually specific to the type of hormone that is imbalanced. These medications work to stimulate, suppress, or replace hormonal chemicals in the body. Surgical treatments are prescribed only when hormonal imbalances are a direct result of more severe problems, such as tumours in the endocrine system.
The most common treatment options for hormonal imbalances in women include hormone control or birth control, hormone replacement, anti-androgen medication, vaginal estrogen, eflornithine or Vaniqa, and assisted reproductive technology.
The most common hormonal imbalance treatment options for men include hormone replacement therapy, testosterone therapy, and thyroid hormone therapy.
There is a lot of content on our website that offers comprehensive information on treatment options for injuries, disabilities, chronic diseases, joint pain, sports
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If you still have unanswered questions about hormonal imbalance symptoms or if you’re interested in determining the most suitable hormonal imbalance treatment for you, we highly encourage you to reach out to BodyWorx Vitality. With many years in the business, our team of professionals will attend to your needs and help you heal, alleviate your uncomfortable symptoms, and bring you back to optimum health.
There’s no need to continue to live with hormonal imbalance symptoms; take control of your health and life!
