What is hormone deficiency?
A hormone deficiency occurs when your body does not produce enough of a certain hormone. Hormones are chemical messengers that help regulate many functions in your body. When you don't have enough of a hormone, it can cause health problems.
There are several common types of hormone deficiencies:
- Growth hormone deficiency. Growth hormone is needed for growth and cell reproduction. Children with growth hormone deficiency will have slowed growth. Adults can have symptoms like increased body fat, muscle weakness, and fatigue.
- Thyroid hormone deficiency (hypothyroidism). The thyroid produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Hypothyroidism means the thyroid gland doesn't make enough hormones. Symptoms include weight gain, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, and depression.
- Testosterone deficiency. Testosterone helps regulate sex drive, bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass, and strength in men. Low levels can cause decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, and depression.
- Estrogen deficiency. Estrogen helps women go through puberty and regulates the menstrual cycle. Low estrogen can cause irregular periods, vaginal dryness, mood changes, hot flashes, and trouble sleeping.
What causes hormone deficiencies?
Hormone deficiencies can be caused by a few key factors:
- Disease or damage to the glands that produce the hormones (e.g., radiation treatment, surgery, tumors, infections)
- Genetic mutations that affect hormone production
- Autoimmune disorders - when the body's immune system attacks the glands
- Iodine deficiency (can impact thyroid function)
How are hormone deficiencies treated?
The main treatment is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This involves taking supplements of the hormone you are lacking.
For example, people with low thyroid hormones take thyroid medications like levothyroxine. Those with low testosterone use testosterone gels, patches, or injections. Estrogen creams and tablets can relieve estrogen deficiency.
Making lifestyle changes can also help relieve symptoms or improve the effectiveness of hormone therapy:
- Eating a balanced, nutritious diet
- Getting regular exercise
- Managing stress levels
- Getting enough sleep
In some cases, treating underlying conditions may resolve the deficiency. Treating pituitary gland tumors can resolve growth hormone deficiency, for instance.
Hormone deficiencies can impact quality of life, but there are good treatment options available. Consulting with an endocrinologist at Wellspring Medical can help diagnose and manage hormone conditions.