What is hormone deficiency?
A hormone deficiency occurs when your body does not produce enough of a certain hormone. Hormones are chemicals produced by glands and released into the bloodstream. They travel to organs and tissues and help control important bodily functions.
Common hormone deficiencies include:
- Thyroid deficiency: The thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. This can cause fatigue, weight gain, and other symptoms.
- Growth hormone deficiency: The pituitary gland makes little or no growth hormone. Children may experience slowed growth. Adults can have muscle weakness, tiredness, and more body fat.
- Testosterone deficiency: The testes produce little testosterone. This can decrease sex drive and cause erectile dysfunction in men.
- Estrogen deficiency: The ovaries produce little estrogen. This can cause hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis in women.
What causes hormone deficiencies?
Hormone deficiencies can be caused by:
- Diseases affecting glands that make hormones
- Injury or removal of glands via surgery
- Medications, tumors, infections
- Genetic mutations
Some people are born lacking certain hormones due to genetic factors. As we age, hormone levels often naturally decline as glands produce less.
How are hormone deficiencies treated?
- Hormone therapy: Missing hormones are replaced via pills, skin patches, gels or injections. The goal is restoring optimum hormone levels.
- Medications: Drugs can stimulate glands to produce more hormones.
- Lifestyle changes: Improving diet, exercise, sleep and stress management supports healthy hormone levels.
If you suspect a hormone deficiency, make an appointment with Revive Hormone Clinic. Our caring medical team specializes in the complexities of hormone health. We provide comprehensive lab testing to check hormone levels, then craft customized treatment plans involving hormone therapy, medications or lifestyle changes as needed. Contact us today to regain optimal wellbeing!