Health Consequences of Hormone Imbalance

The endocrine system may not be as familiar to people as other body systems, but its role is vital to almost every metabolic process in the human body. When the endocrine system is working optimally, hormones are released into the blood in correct proportions. These are the chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream, regulating the functioning of cells, tissues, and organs. The endocrine system is controlled by the pituitary gland located in the brain, when hormones are secreted as they should be all is well.

Side effects of hormone imbalances occur when stress, poor diet, aging or illness interfere with the body’s workings, throwing hormone secretions out of balance. Some hormones naturally decline with age, peaking during early adulthood.

Many anti-aging researchers believe the decrease of certain hormones with age creates imbalances that might be responsible for many of the chronic conditions that accompany aging. Cardiovascular disease, muscle and hair loss, and degenerative diseases have all been attributed to declining hormones.

The sex hormones estrogen and testosterone are secreted by the ovaries and testes and regulate reproductive functioning. The uncomfortable symptoms of menopause are a sign of hormone imbalance. This can be alleviated with hormone replacement therapy to restore balance. Men also experience sex hormone imbalances.

Other hormones assist in maintaining the immune system and play a role in neurotransmitter production in the brain. When hormones that work closely with neurotransmitters in the brain are out of balance, anxiety, depression, emotional problems, and sleep disturbances might result.

People experiencing the side effects of hormone imbalances in Rochester Hills, Michigan and elsewhere can find help from medical professionals who go to the root of the problem. Finding the cause of the imbalance and using state-of-the-art treatments can return the hormones to a balanced state.