Hormonal Imbalance Specialist

How do hormones affect us?

Hormones affect nearly every aspect of a person’s physical and mental health including acne development, sleep cycles, weight maintenance, and memory. People's bodies produce many hormones which control how the body works and even when a single hormone is out of balance it can significantly affect a person’s physical, emotional, and mental health. For women, as they progress into the later stages of life changes in hormone levels result in menopause and they can be very noticeable. The symptoms of these hormonal changes can include hot flashes, drastic mood fluctuations, and insomnia. Hormonal imbalance can also be the result of thyroid problems and these will need to be treated right away.

How are hormone levels tested?

Several different tests can be used to assess the balance of a person’s hormones and which one the doctor uses will be based on the patient’s symptoms. Some of the tests administered can include:

• Saliva Testing- this is typically the most accurate test used to assess if a hormonal imbalance is present.
• Serum or Blood Testing- this test uses a range of normal levels compared to the actual results. If a person is at either the low-normal or high-normal portion of the spectrum further testing can be necessary.
• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Testing- this type of testing is used to determine if a woman is entering menopause. This is done when the woman is experiencing mood swings, hot flashes, and additional symptoms of menopause.

How is a hormone imbalance treated?

Several doctors will evaluate and address a patient’s hormone imbalance using methods which are tailored to the exact nature of the individual’s imbalance. In some instances, hormone replacement therapy can be recommended and in other instances lifestyle changes and increased or decreased activity levels will be all that is required. If you are undergoing any premenopausal symptoms or symptoms related to weight gain, insomnia, or increased acne, the practice can assist you to identify what is causing the imbalance and prescribe a regimen or therapy to restore hormonal balance.