Hormone deficiencies occur when the endocrine glands do not produce enough hormones to maintain proper bodily functions. Some common symptoms are fatigue, weight changes, mood changes, and problems with sexual function or menstruation.
Causes
Hormone deficiencies can be caused by a few key factors:
- Disease or damage to the endocrine glands preventing adequate hormone production. Examples are thyroid disease, pituitary tumors, etc.
- Aging - As we get older, hormone levels naturally decline. Deficiencies become more likely.
- Genetics - Some people are born with diseases or defects impacting hormone production.
Types of Deficiencies
Some examples of hormone deficiencies include:
- Thyroid deficiency - Lack of thyroid hormone leads to weight gain, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, etc.
- Growth hormone deficiency - Can occur at any age and lead to decreased muscle mass and strength.
- Testosterone deficiency - Low testosterone causes decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, reduced muscle mass, etc.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If experiencing concerning symptoms, see your doctor for
blood tests to check hormone levels. Treatment will depend on the specific deficiency. It may include
hormone replacement therapy with pills, patches, gels or injections to return levels to normal.
For personalized care in diagnosing and treating hormone deficiencies, I recommend consulting the
endocrinology experts at Vitality Wellness Clinic. Their compassionate providers utilize advanced testing and create customized treatment plans to help patients regain health and vitality. Convenient online and in-person appointments are available.