Hormones are the chemical messengers of the body that stimulate the cells into action. There are dozens of types of human hormones, and a healthy body has a certain amount of each type of hormone.
The hormones that most people know about are the reproductive hormones, which include estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. An imbalance in any of these hormones, such as a hormone deficiency or even an overabundance, can cause serious or troubling health issues.
Many hormone deficiencies show early symptoms, especially in women as they approach menopause and experience a reduction in certain sex hormones. Let’s talk about what some of these first signs are and where you can seek treatment for relief of these symptoms.
What Are Sex Hormones?
Sex hormones regulate sexual characteristics and reproduction. Men naturally have high levels of androgens, especially testosterone, while women have high levels of estrogen and progesterone. However, all of these sex hormones are present in both genders – men have some estrogen in their bodies, and women have some testosterone.
The main organs that produce sex hormones are the gonads, which are the testes in men and ovaries in women. Any disruptions in the levels of these hormones can cause symptoms of hormone deficiency, but these symptoms can be addressed by a doctor who knows how to treat this issue.
Symptoms of Estrogen Hormone Deficiency
In women, low estrogen levels can hamper sexual performance. In particular, sex may be more painful, since estrogen regulates vaginal lubrication. Menstrual cycles can become irregular. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are also more common in women who have low estrogen levels due to adverse effects on the urethra. Breast tenderness can also appear.
Women with estrogen hormone deficiency may experience hot flashes. They may also have weaker bones, since estrogen helps the bones retain calcium. They might experience fatigue even with a lack of strenuous activity. Mental effects can also occur, such as mood swings, depression, and difficulty in concentration.
Signs of an Androgen Hormone Deficiency
Androgen deficiency can cause signs of persistent fatigue in both sexes. People with low androgen levels also lose muscle mass. They may fail to grow muscle strength, even with a protein-rich diet and regular exercise. Sex drive may also diminish. Low testosterone levels can reduce bone density, increasing the risk of developing osteoporosis.
Low androgen levels can also have negative psychological effects. Patients may feel a lack of motivation, depression, or a reduced sense of well-being.
Men may encounter more symptoms since their bodies rely on higher androgen levels. Their sexual performance and interest may decrease, and they may develop impotence and low sperm counts. Some men see a loss of body hair or an increase in breast development as their testosterone levels decrease – and this is because their natural estrogen levels are more prominent in the body than before, due to the hormone deficiency.
Treatment for Hormone Deficiency in DFW
If you are experiencing the effects of aging or some of the symptoms listed above, and you would like to start feeling normal again, see an experienced doctor who knows how to help your body’s hormones get back into balance. Here in Dallas-Fort Worth, Dr. Rani Anbarasu treats patients who have hormone deficiencies through bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, whereby patients take in substances that closely mimic the function of the missing hormones.
With convenient offices in Denton and Frisco, Texas, DFW Anti-Aging and Wellness Centers specialize in many different types of anti-aging treatment methods, including hormone treatments for both men and women.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Anbarasu, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (469) 389-5251, or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to helping you achieve total health and wellness!
