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Hormonal dysfunction is a health problem in which there is an increase or decrease in the production of hormones related to metabolism or reproduction. In some women the dysfunction can be related to hormones and is usually linked to menstruation and produce symptoms such as weight gain, acne and excess body hair. In men, hormonal disorders are usually related to testosterone, causing symptoms of erectile dysfunction or infertility, for example.
Hormones are chemicals produced by the glands and circulate in the bloodstream acting on different tissues and organs in the body. The symptoms of hormonal dysfunction depend on the gland that is affected and the diagnosis is laboratory by assessing the amount of hormone in the bloodstream.
In case you have any of the symptoms of hormonal dysfunction, it is important to make a medical appointment to start the most appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
1. Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism
The thyroid is a gland located in the neck under the Adam's apple and produces thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), responsible for controlling metabolism in the body, in addition to influencing various body functions such as heartbeat, fertility , bowel rhythm and calorie burning. Another hormone that may be altered and that influences the thyroid is thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid reduces the production of its hormones, causing symptoms such as tiredness, drowsiness, hoarse voice, intolerance to cold, constipation, weak nails and weight gain. In more advanced cases, swelling of the face and eyelids, called myxedema, may occur.
In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid increases the production of its hormones causing symptoms such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, nervousness, anxiety, insomnia and weight loss. In the most severe cases, there may be projection of the eyeballs, called exophthalmos.
Learn more about the symptoms of thyroid problems.
What to do: in case of symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, an evaluation by the endocrinologist should be done. Treatment is usually done with thyroid hormones, such as levothyroxine, for example. For women over 35 and men over 65, preventive examinations are recommended every 5 years. Pregnant women and newborns should also have preventive tests.
2. Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus is a condition in which the pancreas slows down or stops the production of the hormone insulin, which is responsible for removing glucose from the bloodstream and taking it to the cells to perform its functions.
Symptoms of diabetes mellitus include increased glucose in the bloodstream because the pancreas does not produce insulin, which causes increased thirst, increased urge to urinate, increased hunger, blurred vision, drowsiness and nausea.
What to do: a diet guided by a doctor or nutritionist, physical activity, lose weight and strict monitoring with the endocrinologist should be done. The treatment of diabetes mellitus often requires insulin injection, but only the doctor can prescribe it because the doses are personalized for each person. Learn more about diabetes mellitus.
3. Polycystic ovary syndrome
The most common hormonal dysfunction in women is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, related to the increase in the hormone testosterone, leading to the production of cysts in the ovaries and usually starts at puberty.
These cysts are responsible for symptoms such as acne, absence of menstruation or irregular menstruation and increased amount of hair in the body. In addition, they can increase stress in women and cause infertility. Learn more about polycystic ovary syndrome.
What to do: Treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome is based on symptom relief, regulation of menstruation or treatment of infertility. Generally, contraceptives are used, but it is necessary to follow up with a gynecologist.
4. Menopause
Menopause is the phase in a woman's life when there is an abrupt decrease in the production of estrogen leading to the end of menstruation, which marks the end of the woman's reproductive phase. It usually happens between 45 and 55 years, but it can happen early, before 40 years.
The most common symptoms of menopause are hot flashes, insomnia, rapid heartbeat, decreased sexual desire, vaginal dryness and difficulty concentrating. In addition, menopause can cause osteoporosis, which is characterized by greater fragility of the bones.
What to do: hormone replacement may be necessary, however, only the gynecologist is able to assess the need for hormone replacement, as in some cases it is contraindicated, such as suspected or diagnosed breast cancer. Learn more about hormone replacement treatment.
5. Andropause
Andropause, also called androgen deficiency syndrome, is considered to be male menopause, which is a natural process in the body in which there is a gradual decrease in testosterone production.
Symptoms of andropause can occur at any age, but it is more common after the age of 40 and includes decreased sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, decreased testicular volume, decreased muscle strength and mass, insomnia and breast swelling. Learn more about andropause.
What to do: often no treatment is necessary, as the symptoms are subtle. Some simple measures like a balanced diet and moderate physical activity can help testosterone levels return to normal. However, it is important to have an evaluation and follow-up with the urologist to help reduce symptoms.
How the diagnosis is made
The diagnosis of hormonal dysfunctions is based on symptoms and laboratory tests by measuring the hormones in the blood.
In some cases, ultrasound can be done, such as thyroid ultrasound, for nodule investigation, and in polycystic ovary syndrome, transvaginal ultrasound. In andropause, ultrasound of the testicles or sperm analysis may be necessary.