What diseases are caused by hormonal imbalance? Hormonal imbalance in women: treatment, medications

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Organic substances that have biological activity and are produced by endocrine glands (endocrine glands) are called hormones. About 70 hormones are known. They regulate essential functions human body - such as growth, metabolism, sexual development and so on. By chemical structure Hormones are divided into three groups:
1. Protein-peptide.
2. Amino acid derivatives.
3. Steroids.

Hormones are formed in very small quantities and act on the body through the blood (humoral). Their activity is determined by a number of conditions: the supply of necessary vitamins and microelements, amino acids not synthesized by the body, etc.

In a broader sense, hormones include substances that are produced in cells and influence other cells:

  • hormones of animals that do not have a circulatory system;
  • hormones that are not produced in the endocrine glands (prostaglandins, erythropoietins, etc.);
  • plant hormones.
Hormonal background - the ratio of hormones in the human body.

What causes hormonal changes?

Changes in hormonal levels are caused by a large number internal and external factors: age-related restructuring of the body, various diseases, psycho-emotional state, developmental anomalies, climatic and environmental conditions, etc.

So, for example, slowing down the series physiological processes V winter time is associated with changes in hormonal levels, and is manifested by corresponding deviations in well-being. In spring, such processes are activated, which is marked by a “hormonal explosion.”

There are also differences between female and male hormonal levels.

A woman’s hormonal background is not constant and depends on the phase of the menstrual cycle.

An increase in hormonal levels is observed during pregnancy: the production of a large amount of hormones is observed in the first trimester, and then the expectant mother’s body gradually adapts to the new state.

What are the main glands that produce hormones?

The endocrine system consists of the following components: thyroid, parathyroid (parathyroid), pancreas, thymus (thymus), adrenal glands and genitals, pituitary gland and pineal gland.

The activity of each component of the endocrine system is interconnected with the functioning of the others:

  • The pituitary gland produces hormones (tropic hormones, prolactin, etc.) that regulate the activity of other endocrine glands.
  • Thyroid hormones (thyroid hormones are hormones containing iodine: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4)) are responsible for the processes of development, growth and metabolism.
  • Parathyroid produces parathyroid hormones (parathyroidocrines) and regulates calcium-phosphorus metabolism in the body.
  • The adrenal cortex produces sex hormones and hormones responsible for carbohydrate, fat, protein and mineral metabolism. The adrenal medulla produces adrenaline and norepinephrine, which support normal work heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and blood glucose levels. The adrenal glands also synthesize mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids.
  • Pancreatic hormones (insulin, glucagon) are responsible for the metabolism of carbohydrates and other substances.
  • Sex glands ensure the formation of secondary sexual characteristics and the formation of germ cells.
  • Pineal gland regulates the cyclical and rhythmic processes of the body, producing the night hormone melatonin and the daytime hormone serotonin.
  • Thymus produces hormones responsible for the development of immune system cells.

Main signs of hormonal imbalance

1. Weight loss with increased appetite. This sign may indicate increased function thyroid gland. In this case, such a symptom may be supplemented by hand tremors, sleep disturbances, mood swings and nervousness, sweating, heart problems, a prolonged increase in temperature to 37-37.5 o C, and sexual dysfunction.


2. Many hormonal imbalances are accompanied by obesity. So, in case of problems with the thyroid gland, weakness, drowsiness, hair loss, dry skin, decreased blood pressure and temperature, hoarseness.
3. Excessive hair growth (hypertrichosis) may be a manifestation of gonadal dysfunction. In women, it is most often associated with increased testosterone production. May be accompanied by acne (pimples), oily skin, dandruff, disorder menstrual cycle and reproductive function.
4. The formation of striae (purple stretch marks on the skin) indicates a disorder of the hypothalamic-pituitary system or dysfunction of the adrenal glands. At the same time, there may be an increase in blood pressure up to high values, deposition of adipose tissue in the abdomen, back, neck and face, sexual dysfunction, hypertrichosis, noticeable decrease in immunity.
5. Manifestation of initial signs acromegaly characterized by enlargement of the skull ( lower jaw, cheekbones and brow ridges), hands, feet, and is associated with the production of excess amounts of somatotropic hormone - growth hormone. Accompanied by joint pain, headaches, numbness of the limbs, fatigue, sexual dysfunction and other symptoms.
6. A tumor of the pituitary gland may be accompanied by a sharp and persistent deterioration in vision, accompanied by headaches.
7. An early sign Diabetes mellitus may include itching of the skin, accompanied by thirst, frequent urination and an increase in the volume of urine. Furunculosis, poor healing of scratches and wounds, and fatigue may occur.
8. Pale, rough, flaky skin, mood swings, slow reactions, memory impairment - may indicate the occurrence of hypothyroidism. At the same time, red spots on the legs and itchy skin, heavy sweating at normal temperature and in the absence of additional physical activity, may be a sign of an overactive thyroid gland ( hyperthyroidism).
9. Convulsive muscle contractions, constant headaches, ringing in the ears may indicate a lack of parathyroid hormone. An excess of this hormone is manifested by constant weakness, depression, disorders gastrointestinal tract.

Features of a woman's hormonal background

The balance of sex hormones plays a vital role in a woman’s life. The task of such hormones is to ensure the functioning of the female reproductive system. Changes in hormonal levels caused by an imbalance of sex hormones cause the following problems:
  • menstrual irregularities;
  • miscarriage;
  • labor disorders;
  • menopausal manifestations;
  • development of tumor diseases (uterine fibroids, etc.).
Hormonal imbalance during puberty is manifested by the following symptoms:
  • late onset of menstruation (absence before age 16);
  • irregular menstrual cycle;
  • pronounced thinness;
  • excessive hair growth;
  • poor development of the mammary glands.
Hormonal imbalance in women menopause manifested by symptoms such as:
  • increased fatigue;
  • absent-mindedness;
  • depressive states;
  • mood swings a week before the start of menstruation;
  • joint pain;
  • engorgement of the mammary glands;
  • night sweats;
  • early rise.
Hormones that regulate the functioning of the female body include:
1. Estrogens - most of them are produced by the ovaries, and very little by the adrenal glands. As the girl grows up, they are responsible for shaping her figure according to female type: wide rounded hips, narrow shoulders; determine the growth and development of the genital organs. In adult women, they are responsible for the regularity of the menstrual cycle, the condition of the endometrium of the uterus, the body’s readiness to conceive, bear and give birth to a child. Prevent the development of atherosclerosis, regulate water-salt metabolism, calcium and phosphorus content, and are responsible for the work sebaceous glands and skin moisture level. Lack of estrogen provokes the development of osteoporosis, cervical erosion, obesity, breast tumors, autonomic disorders and depressive conditions.

Nezame long-term treatment requires hormonal imbalance after abortion, which, otherwise, can lead to serious problems. It is also necessary to normalize hormonal levels in the event of the development of fibroids, polycystic disease, polyps and other diseases, to prevent their degeneration into malignant formations.

Folk methods for normalizing hormonal levels in women

  • Traditional healers recommend such herbs that normalize hormonal background like calendula, nettle and red clover. The use of these components in the compositions of the preparations allows you to restore hormonal levels.
  • To ease well-being during menopause, infusions of lily of the valley, St. John's wort, sage, mint, and lemon balm are recommended.
  • Correction of hormonal levels is possible with the help of acupuncture, aromatherapy and acupressure.
  • According to the advice of lithotherapists (specialists in stone treatment), jewelry made from stones considered “feminine”: hematite, beryl, andradite will help normalize hormonal levels.
These methods require regular implementation over a long period of time.

Features of hormonal levels in men

Most often, the question of studying hormonal levels in men arises when receiving an unsatisfactory spermogram result, or when it is necessary to determine the ability to conceive. In this regard, the following hormones are determined:
1. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) - activates Sertoli cells (causes the growth of seminiferous tubules), increases testosterone production, promoting sperm maturation. Elevated levels of FSH may indicate diseases such as alcoholism, inflammation of the testicle (orchitis), renal failure, pituitary tumor, insufficient function of the gonads. Additionally, high FSH levels may occur after taking certain medicines, exposure to x-ray radiation. A decrease in FSH levels is observed after surgery, with obesity, decreased function of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, fasting, and after taking certain drugs (anabolic steroids, etc.).
2. Luteinizing hormone (LH) provokes the formation of testosterone by Leydig cells, increases the permeability of the seminiferous tubules to testosterone. High levels of this hormone may be a sign of both a pituitary tumor and renal failure, and as a result of stress, fasting, sports training. A decrease in LH is observed with genetic abnormalities, smoking, obesity, stress conditions, nervous exhaustion, decreased function of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus.
3. Testosterone produced in the testes and adrenal cortex, affects the formation of secondary sexual characteristics, development muscle mass and skeleton, has an activating effect on sexual function ( sexual desire, potency), stimulates sperm production, regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands and bone marrow. There are noticeable daily fluctuations in testosterone levels: more high content V morning time with a tendency to decrease in the evening. A high level may indicate hyperplasia of the adrenal cortex, and in boys, premature puberty. Low level testosterone is characteristic of Down syndrome, chronic prostatitis, renal failure, and obesity. Deviations from the norm may occur after taking certain medications.
4. Prolactin participates in regulation water-salt metabolism, promotes testosterone production, sperm formation and development. Normal increase Prolactin is observed during sleep, sexual intercourse, and physical activity. Pathological increase hormone levels are observed in hypothyroidism, cirrhosis, autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, etc.), lack of vitamin B 6, etc. Hyperprolactinemia (constant increase in prolactin) is one of significant reasons male infertility. A decrease in prolactin levels is the result of taking a number of medications ( anticonvulsants, morphine, etc.), failure or apoplexy of the pituitary gland.
5. Estradiol– one of the female sex hormones of the estrogen class. It is formed in the testes and in the adrenal cortex, but the main part of this hormone is synthesized from testosterone in peripheral tissues. As a result, an increase in subcutaneous fat (obesity) leads to an increase in the conversion of testosterone to estradiol. Estradiol exhibits anabolic activity, accelerates bone growth, delays the removal of sodium and water from the body, lowers cholesterol levels, but at the same time can increase irritability and nervous tension. An increase in estradiol content is characteristic of some testicular tumors, cirrhosis, medical supplies (anabolic steroid, cimetidine, troleandomycin, etc.). A decrease in estradiol levels is observed with weight loss, a diet with low content fats and high carbohydrates, in vegetarians, smoking, hypogonadism (underdevelopment of the gonads), chronic prostatitis and other diseases. The decrease may also be due to the use of chemotherapy drugs, aminoglutethimide and other drugs.
6. Analysis on human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in men it is used in the diagnosis of testicular tumors.

Hormonal imbalance in men caused by age-related changes, causes a number of problems:

  • decreased performance;
  • increased blood pressure;
  • deterioration of the cardiovascular and circulatory system;
  • development diabetes mellitus;
  • increased bone fragility, etc.
Diagnosis of disorders and treatment hormonal imbalance in men are similar to those in women. A specific requirement is the need to determine the level of prolactin and gonadotropins when a decrease in testosterone levels is detected. Treatment regimens and replacement therapy are selected strictly individually.

How to improve hormonal levels with food?

Including foods such as fish (a source of omega-polyunsaturated acids), soy products, berries (a source of phytoestrogens), cabbage, and spinach in the diet helps improve hormonal levels. Sunflower seeds, nuts, pomegranates, dates allow you to compensate for estrogen deficiency. If you have a lack of progesterone, you can eat wild yam (Dioscorea, Chinese root, Atlantic yam, Mexican yam).

Is there a way to prevent hormonal disorders?

The human body is one system, in which even the slightest deviation in the content of one hormone from the norm can lead to disruption of the entire hormonal balance and cause serious changes in well-being. Therefore, it is very important to promptly seek advice from a specialist (and perhaps more than one) in order to avoid serious consequences. Self-medication in this case is unacceptable! Like any disease, hormonal disorders Sometimes it is easier to prevent than to treat: follow a diet and sleep regime, avoid stressful situations, treat concomitant diseases in a timely manner, and so on.

Anyway the best prevention hormonal disorders are love and happiness!

The influence of nutrition on hormonal levels - video

Before use, you should consult a specialist.

All vital processes of the human body are interconnected with physiological change the level of hormones in the blood that control its cycles of development and growth, reproduction and withering. The functional regulation system is responsible for hormonal secretion in the body. internal organs– grandular apparatus, represented by various endocrine glands of internal secretion.

They have a significant impact on the functioning of the central nervous system and exercise control and functional regulation of every vital organ. Hormonal disbalance is a process of hormonal dysfunction caused by pathologies in the neuroregulatory and endocrine systems.

The activity of the intrasecretory glands and the hormones they synthesize in a healthy body are in a state of harmonious equilibrium and balance. But this state is very fragile.

Violation of the synthesis of just one type of hormones leads to a violation of the coordination in the work of all endocrine glands - an imbalance of hormones, manifested by various pathological changes in the body.

Signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance are observed in women of various ages, various disorders lead to hormone imbalance:

  • an increase in hormone synthesis or a decrease in it;
  • changes in the chemical structure of hormones, leading to disruption of synthesis;
  • disturbances in the transport system of hormonal organic substances;
  • simultaneous failure of synthesis in various glands of the endocrine system.

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Causes of hormonal imbalance in women

The factor of insufficient hormonal synthesis, which causes hormonal imbalance in women, can be various pathological processes in the form of:

  1. Infectious and inflammatory processes in the endocrine glands;
  2. Anatomical congenital anomalies, caused by their underdevelopment;
  3. Surgical interventions for injuries or tumor processes in the secretory glands;
  4. Hemorrhagic manifestations in their tissue structure;
  5. Lack of or impaired blood supply;
  6. Deficiency of vitamin and mineral elements in the diet;
  7. Immune failure.

Excess hormone secretion is provoked by:

  • uncontrolled use of drugs containing hormones;
  • various injuries (mainly to the abdomen and head);
  • inflammatory pathologies.

The balanced operation of the granular apparatus system can be disrupted by:

  • stressful and hypodynamic conditions;
  • chronic lack of sleep;
  • addiction to bad habits;
  • too early sexual life, or its complete absence.

In addition, there are reasons for changes in hormonal levels in women due to physiological reasons. This is facilitated by the reorganization of the background during pregnancy.

During this period, the synthesis of new hormones begins to ensure normal gestation fetus At the beginning of pregnancy, synthesis female hormones increases, and at the beginning of the 2nd trimester it decreases, as the synthesis of estriol by the placenta begins.

Changes in hormonal levels occur again after delivery. Pregnancy hormones stop being synthesized and are replaced by the synthesis of the prolactin fraction, which stimulates the intensity of milk production. When a woman stops breast-feeding, a decrease occurs and the body returns to the usual volume of synthesis of the main female hormones (progesterone and estrogen).

A sharp imbalance of hormones is caused by medical abortions. Endocrine glands stop the synthesis of a number of hormones. In response to such stress, the body responds with increased secretion of adrenal and female sex hormones. During this period, the female body is very vulnerable.

Concomitant pathologies and unfavorable factors against the background of hormonal imbalance can provoke pathological disorders in the structure of the ovaries - their tissue proliferation (thecomatosis), tumor formations, or development of processes.

signs of hormonal imbalance, photos

There are almost no specific, special symptoms of a malfunction in the balance of hormones in a woman’s body, so diagnosing endocrine diseases is not an easy process - the signs of a hormonal imbalance are similar to the symptoms of many other diseases. Although several signs suggest hormonal imbalance still exist. They appear:

Increased appetite, but at the same time weight loss progresses. This indicates increased secretion processes in the thyroid gland. Pathology appears:

  • irritability and nervousness;
  • insomnia and hyperhidrosis;
  • tremor of fingers;
  • cardiac arrhythmia;
  • low, prolonged body temperature.

Lack of functional activity of the thyroid glands is characterized by the following symptoms:

  • development of simultaneous obesity throughout the body;
  • weakness (asthenia) and tendency to drowsiness;
  • dry skin and mucous membranes, including the vagina;
  • brittle hair and its thinning;
  • chilliness and low temperature;
  • hoarseness of voice.

In women over 30 years of age, hormonal imbalance often results from dysfunction in the hypothalamic-pituitary system. What provokes the development of the selective process of obesity, when thin legs quickly become overgrown with fat? top part torso. Wavy purple stripes appear due to stretching of the skin of the thighs, abdomen and mammary glands.

The presence of such “metamorphoses” causes sharp increases in blood pressure in women. As a result of excessive synthesis of somatotropin (growth hormone), the appearance changes - the jaw and tongue enlarge, the shape of the lips, cheekbones and brow ridges changes.

The voice becomes hoarse, it is noted enhanced growth hair and joint pain. In the presence of tumor growths in the pituitary gland, the symptoms of hormonal imbalance are marked by deterioration of visual functions, accompanied by constant migraines.

Insolvency endocrine gland digestive system(pancreatic) leads to the development of diabetes accompanied by skin itching, slow healing wounds, furunculosis, constant thirst and polyuria (frequent urination).

Increased synthesis of androgens (testosterone) provokes hormonal imbalance in women with symptoms of delayed menstrual cycle, heavy menstrual flow, intermenstrual hemorrhages, and irregular periods. At the same time, changes in appearance appear:

  • excessive hair growth on the body and face of women;
  • rough, oily skin;
  • regular rashes and the development of acne.

Signs of age-related hormonal imbalance in women manifest themselves in mass unpleasant symptoms during menopause. This is due to a sudden cessation of hormonal synthesis of female hormones and an increase in hormones synthesized by the glands of the hypothalamic-pituitary system, thyroid and adrenal glands. The manifestation of symptoms depends on the genesis of various disorders.

With the vegetative-vascular nature of the disorders, the symptoms are expressed:

  • hypertension and heart pain;
  • attacks of tachycardia;
  • hand tremors and hyperhidrosis;
  • hot flushes to the head.

For emotional disturbances:

  • excessive nervousness, attacks of anger and anger;
  • depressed mood and tearfulness;
  • anxiety and depression.

insomnia is one of the signs of hormonal imbalance

Neurological signs:

  • decreased attention and impaired mental productivity;
  • drowsiness during the day and insomnia at night;
  • frequent manifestation of migraines and signs of vertigo.

Functional disorders in metabolic processes, manifested by:

  • osteoporosis – increased fragility of bones;
  • symptoms of hirsutism (hair growth in the form of a mustache and beard);
  • slowdown hair growth in the armpit and groin area.

If women experience symptoms and signs of hormonal imbalance, treatment depends on which hormone deficiency is found in the body - one or a group. The treatment protocol is based on two directions - regulation of the imbalance with oral contraceptives or individual drugs.

The first option for treating hormonal dysfunctions is using drugs oral contraceptives with a different number of hormonal combinations - low-dose and micro-dose forms. Sometimes, if long-term treatment is necessary, a mixed course of drugs is prescribed, but a short-term course of high-dose contraceptives is also possible.

  • Among low-dose drugs, preference is given to Femodene, Gestoden, Marvelon, Desogestrel, Cyproterone, Janine, Yarina, and Drospirinone.
  • When treating with microdosed drugs, Mercilon, Desogestrel, Novinet, Loest and Gestodene are used.

Treatment of hormonal levels in women with hormone preparations begins with an individual selection of medications. Which causes a certain difficulty, since the treatment course consists of several drugs and it is important to select them in such a way as not to cause a disruption in the secretion of those hormones that are present normally.

  • If there is excess androgen secretion, drugs such as Dexamethasone, Cyproterone or Metipred are prescribed.
  • To normalize the level of progesterone in the blood, Urozhestan and Duphaston are prescribed
  • Estrogen deficiency is corrected with Premarin, Divigel or Proginova, and if there is an excess amount, Clomiphene or Tamoxifen are prescribed.

These are just minor examples of treatment for this problem, a specific scheme therapeutic treatment must be compiled by a medical specialist.

It is important for every woman to notice deviations in health in time and begin appropriate treatment. Find out what hormonal imbalance is, what are its symptoms and causes?

Hormonal imbalance - what is it?

When there is a hormonal imbalance, disturbances occur in a person’s hormonal background. All processes in a woman’s body are controlled by the hormones progesterone and estrogen, which are responsible for puberty, monthly menstruation, and the functioning of the reproductive system.

This is why it is so important that hormones are in a certain balance to maintain normal functioning. nervous system and all vital organs. A decrease or increase in the production of one of the hormones (estrogen or progesterone) causes changes in well-being, affecting the condition of the internal organs and the appearance of the woman.

Unfortunately, in Lately hormonal disruptions have become significantly “younger” and are increasingly observed not only in women of “Balzac’s” age, but also in very young representatives of the fair sex.

Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance

Symptoms of hormonal disorders are multifaceted and largely depend on the woman’s age and the condition of her body. General manifestations for women of reproductive age are:

    menstrual irregularities (irregular periods, painful, scanty or too heavy periods, with pronounced premenstrual syndrome);

    uterine bleeding;

    problems with conception (frozen pregnancies, miscarriages);

    fatigue, irritability, insomnia;

    frequent headaches, dizziness;

    decreased libido, vaginal dryness;

    an increase in body hair growth, which indicates increased content male hormone - testosterone;

    rapid weight gain, swelling;

    surges in blood pressure.

Irritability may be a symptom of hormonal imbalance

In teenage girls, symptoms of hormonal disorders may most often manifest themselves:

    in the absence of menstruation or their irregular appearance;

    in underdevelopment of the mammary glands;

    excessive growth of body hair;

    in excessive thinness.

During pregnancy and in the period after childbirth, hormonal imbalances make themselves felt especially clearly. They may lead:

    to the threat of miscarriage, frequent pain in the lower abdomen and spotting;

    complications during childbirth, insufficient labor;

    slow contraction of the uterus after childbirth, problems with lactation;

    postpartum depression.

During menopause, even completely healthy women feel unwell. Therefore, you should immediately consult a doctor if the following alarming symptoms appear:

    prolonged headaches;

    pain and changes in the mammary glands;

    joint pain;

    exacerbation chronic diseases internal organs (pancreas, liver) a week before menstruation;

    frequent interruption of sleep at 4-6 am (time of hormone production);

    increased night sweats;

    constant fatigue, apathy, distracted attention, depressive states.

Every woman needs to be examined by a gynecologist every six months. All diseases are much easier to treat with early stage. Modern drugs help eliminate the symptoms of the disease and normalize hormonal status body. To eliminate hormonal imbalance, you must first identify its cause.

Causes of hormonal disorders

The following reasons most often lead to hormonal imbalances:

    constant stress;

    unhealthy lifestyle and unbalanced diet;

    onset of early menopause (before 40 years);

    taking hormonal medications and birth control pills;

    genetic predisposition;

    previous infections, sexually transmitted diseases;

    diseases of the endocrine system;

    early abortions, abdominal injuries;

    puberty;

    period of pregnancy and childbirth;

    excess weight;

    excessive physical activity.

Each of the reasons has its own effect on the production and balance of hormones in the female body and can provoke their unfavorable increase or decrease.

A special hormone analysis will help determine the failure. Based on the results of this analysis, the doctor will prescribe appropriate treatment, with which it will be possible to calm the hormonal storm and avoid subsequent relapses.

Consequences of hormonal imbalance

Doctors never tire of repeating that you need to seek help on time, then hormonal disorders are completely reversible and can be treated with medication. If time is lost, the consequences of long-term hormonal imbalance are much more severe and can lead to severe complications, such as:

    Infertility, miscarriages.

    Uterine fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome.

    Fibrocystic formations in the mammary glands.

  1. Diabetes.

    Atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke.

    Malignant formations.

Unfortunately, many young girls and women take things lightly own health and often simply try not to focus attention on the alarming symptoms.

A woman’s body experiences a series of hormonal surges throughout her life associated with puberty, pregnancy and childbirth, breastfeeding, and the onset of menopause.

Each of these periods carries with it the danger of violation hormonal balance, therefore it is very important during these periods to be attentive to any alarming symptoms, pass on time necessary examinations and receive appropriate treatment.

Treatment of hormonal imbalance

Treatment methods for the pathology will depend on the cause of the hormonal imbalance. If the cause is a tumor (fibroids, polycystic diseases), then surgical intervention is indicated. If the cause cannot be eliminated surgically, carry out hormone replacement therapy.

The result of treatment will be the elimination of hormonal fluctuations and associated manifestations. The doctor will prescribe treatment after a thorough examination. You will need to undergo an ultrasound and general analysis blood, do a hormone test and an STD test.

It is necessary to be examined by an endocrinologist and gynecologist. Based on the test results, specialists will determine the condition of the ovaries, pituitary gland, adrenal glands and thyroid gland. Based on these data, the doctor will select the most optimal and effective scheme treatment.

Hormonal imbalance can only be diagnosed based on test results.

Hormonal preparations used in treatment may contain both natural and artificial hormones; in addition, antipsychotics may be prescribed, homeopathic remedies and potassium-containing drugs.

In most cases, patients suffering from excessive thinness and obesity are given hormonal treatment only after their weight has normalized. If, during the examination, sexually transmitted infections are detected, then first of all, patients need to undergo a course of treatment, only then hormonal therapy is carried out.

When treating hormonal imbalances in teenage girls, the first step is to ultrasonography, in order to assess the correctness of development female organs. Teenagers are often prescribed a selenium-zinc diet, which helps improve immunity and relieve nervous conditions.

When treating hormonal disorders, much attention is paid to proper nutrition and reasonable physical activity, adherence to work and rest schedules. In order for the body to fully rest after working day Doctors recommend taking warm baths at night with the addition of infusions of soothing herbs, drinking warm milk with honey and listening to pleasant, relaxing music.

Content:

Hormones have a direct effect on physiology and are responsible for regulating metabolic processes in organism. Despite significant differences, all hormones are very clearly balanced among themselves. Breaking them normal level leads to an imbalance, which results in hormonal imbalance in women, which can cause serious Negative consequences for the body. Therefore, such situations require urgent action, since the reaction can be completely unpredictable.

What is hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalance occurs when the production of hormones in the body becomes unstable, and the amount does not fit into the regulatory framework. Reason similar anomalies metabolic disorders may occur, stressful situations and other negative factors.

In case of hormonal imbalance, the hormonal balance is first disrupted. For this reason, women develop diseases associated with the reproductive system, their immunity is impaired, and inflammatory processes and sexually transmitted infections. As a result of such deviations, the menstrual cycle is disrupted, anomalies lead to hyperplasia, uterine fibroids, polyps and polycystic disease. In such cases great importance has timely gynecological examinations, since most diseases of the reproductive system have no symptoms and occur without any clinical manifestations.

Most of the complex processes in a woman’s body occur under the control of estrogen, which is responsible for the onset of menstruation in adolescents, the achievement of puberty, hair growth, an increase in breast size, and the performance of reproductive functions. Change hormonal levels occurs in connection with pregnancy. During this period, a new hormone is released - human chorionic gonadotropin. At the same time, there is an increase in the content of progesterone and estrogen. At the 4th month, the placenta produces its own hormones that support pregnancy. The onset of hormonal imbalance often occurs as a result of an imbalance between female and male hormones. It is he who gives impetus to certain gynecological diseases.

Causes of hormonal imbalance

The period of onset of hormonal disruptions often occurs during menopause. The main cause of pathologies is usually the peculiarities of the menstrual cycle and dysfunction of the hormonal glands. No less important factor hormones are not produced in the quantities required by the body.

Most women experience hormonal imbalances at the age of 40 and older. However, in modern conditions, young girls are increasingly becoming susceptible to such violations. First of all, this is explained by their excessive busyness at work, when there is simply no free time to visit a gynecologist. Very often there is a frivolous attitude even in the presence of characteristic symptoms. Most girls don't realize how hard it is possible consequences and bring the situation to critical condition. Instead of a small short-term treatment, it is necessary to carry out a whole range of therapeutic measures over a long period of time.

One of the causes of hormonal imbalance is observed during puberty in girls. The cause of pathology in young women can be contraceptives hormonal agents, fatigue, stress, poor nutrition, unhealthy lifestyle and other negative factors.

After reaching the age of forty, hormonal levels are disrupted under the influence of natural factors. The main reason is the onset of menopause. At this time, eggs are no longer formed, so estrogen enters the body in noticeably reduced quantities. In this regard, hot flashes, irritability, night sweats, and severe fatigue occur. The treatment does not produce results, so its implementation is considered useless.

Signs of hormonal imbalance in women

The hormonal background of the female body can undergo changes at different periods, especially during the formation and development of the reproductive system.

Hormonal imbalance manifests itself as common features, such as disrupted menstrual cycle, frequent and severe headaches. The woman becomes nervous, overly irritable, and regularly suffers from insomnia. Hair begins to grow rapidly in those areas of the body where it should not be in such quantities. The vagina becomes dry and irritable, libido decreases, and discomfort is felt during sexual intercourse.

During puberty in girls, hormonal imbalances lead to irregular or irregular periods. complete absence at the age of 16 years. There is no hair in the armpits and pubic area. In some cases, on the contrary, these places are subject to excessive hair growth. Mammary glands underdeveloped, combined with severe thinness and impaired normal deposition of adipose tissue. Arms and legs look disproportionately long.

In women of reproductive age, hormonal disorders manifest themselves as regular disruptions in the menstrual cycle. In some cases, problems may affect reproductive functions in the form of spontaneous abortions, missed pregnancies, and the impossibility of fertilization. Sometimes dysfunctional uterine bleeding develops.

During menopause and menopause, women are often susceptible to depression and apathy, premenstrual syndrome is very pronounced, and concentration decreases. The main symptoms are accompanied by headaches, digestive disorders, painful sensations in the chest, sleep disorders.

Insufficient amounts of hormones are characterized by the following disorders:

  • Lack of prolactin leads to improper development of the mammary glands. As a result, after childbirth, breast milk is produced in insufficient quantities or may not exist at all. At the same time, the menstrual cycle is often disrupted.
  • Insufficient testosterone also leads to menstrual irregularities. Similar condition causes the development of frigidity, sebaceous and sweat glands function with malfunctions. Particularly severe cases are accompanied by renal failure.
  • Lack of estrogen, in addition to cycle disorders, causes osteoporosis, spontaneous abortions, and benign formations in the mammary glands. In addition, this pathology leads to atherosclerosis, depression, obesity, cervical erosion, and various autonomic disorders.
  • Insufficient production of progesterone can cause inflammatory processes in the uterus, leading to painful and heavy menstruation. The likelihood of spontaneous abortion during pregnancy increases significantly. Ovulation is disrupted, and the skin becomes covered with boils and acne.

Hormonal imbalance after childbirth

Pregnancy and childbirth, although they are a completely natural process, nevertheless have a serious impact on the entire female body. Changes occur immediately after conception and continue until birth. All this restructuring is aimed solely at preserving the actively growing fragile life of the unborn child. After childbirth, the body recovers and regulates its own processes, bringing them to a normal state.

These changes also affect the general hormonal background, which undergoes significant, dramatic changes. However, immediately after childbirth, the hormonal balance is completely restored on its own. However, in some cases this may not happen, then experts diagnose a hormonal imbalance or imbalance.

The main signs of the anomaly are dizziness and severe headaches. The woman suffers from insomnia, she develops swelling, and her blood pressure readings are characterized by sharp jumps. Associated symptoms include apathy, deep depression, constant manifestation of irritability. The hormonal nature of the problems is indicated by increased sweating, accompanied by fatigue And sharp decline libido. Hormonal imbalance can lead to hair growth problems. There is both an excess of hair and a lack of it. Hair can actively fall out, including on the head. Problems arise excess weight, despite a balanced and proper diet.

It is possible to speak confidently about hormonal imbalance only after special tests and studies prescribed by a doctor. Based on the results of such an examination, all organs and systems are realistically assessed. Based on the data obtained, based on general well-being, the necessary medication is prescribed.

How to treat hormonal imbalance

Once the causes of hormonal disorders have been identified and a diagnosis has been established, the necessary treatment is prescribed using special medications. This group of drugs effectively restores and regulates the menstrual cycle, alleviates menopause and other symptoms. Most often, hormonal therapy is carried out using Klimadinon, Mastodinon, Cyclodinone and others. At the same time, vitamin therapy and a course of physiotherapeutic procedures can be prescribed. Many women are recommended sanatorium treatment and wellness.

If a hormonal imbalance in women is definitely established, then the necessary medications can be taken from several days to several months. Therapeutic measures are appointed to individually, based on these analyses. When selecting a dose, weight, age and hormone levels in the blood are taken into account. Self-medication is strictly contraindicated.

Talking about hormonal disorders in women, you need to know what exactly doctors call a “failure.” The synthesis of hormones is simultaneously provided by several glands:

  • Pituitary gland in the brain;
  • Thyroid gland above the larynx;
  • Adrenal glands;
  • Ovaries in the pelvic cavity.

Hormonal imbalance in women is a deviation in the amount of one or more hormones produced from normal values. That is, it may turn out that the level of all hormones is decreased or increased. But more often than not, some hormones are more than normal, while others are less. The failure begins with small discrepancies, but gradually (and usually imperceptibly) they reach values ​​at which obvious signs and symptoms of pathology appear. Then the problems grow like a snowball: problems with one hormone cause improper production of the others.


First at risk of getting hurt reproductive system, because its normal activity, including the regularity of the menstrual cycle, almost entirely depends on hormonal balance. It is important not to miss the initial signs of failure - restoration of the endocrine system is not always possible and in any case will take a long time.

The main causes of hormonal imbalance

Pathologies of hormone synthesis can be congenital and acquired, the former are caused by disorders of intrauterine development, and the latter are the result of improper use of hormonal drugs, abnormalities in the endocrine system, and even prolonged stress. In women, the impetus for hormonal imbalance can be or. So, rating of possible causes by frequency of detection in patients of reproductive age:


  • Oral contraceptives, or rather errors in their selection. In some women, after discontinuation of the drug, the natural production of hormones in normal quantities is not restored;
  • Emergency hormonal contraception. These drugs prevent unwanted pregnancy, if taken within 24 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. For example, they are recommended for victims of rape. Usually this is one, less often 2 tablets, provoking a sharp and strong hormonal surge;
  • Self-medication other drugs containing hormones. Only a doctor can prescribe and control such therapy; the cost of an error is too high;
  • Developmental abnormalities or diseases of the endocrine glands that cause abnormalities in their functioning;
  • Physiological phenomena associated with a woman’s age - puberty in youth, after 45 years;
  • Abortions, miscarriages. Termination of pregnancy means a sharp cessation of the release of the hCG hormone, which destabilizes the entire hormonal balance.

Prolonged stress conditions that suppress the production of oxytocin can also lead to hormonal imbalance. Try to protect yourself from negative emotions or abstract yourself as much as possible if this is not possible.

It is worth highlighting pregnancy, as a condition that inevitably entails changes in the production of certain hormones. As soon as the embryo is fixed in the uterus, the production of the hCG hormone begins - the higher its concentration becomes, the more the overall hormonal picture changes, this is normal.


If endocrine system women cannot cope with the situation, failures that threaten miscarriage may occur:

  • Progesterone and/or estrogen deficiency;
  • Pathological increase in testosterone.

Having identified a deviation, the gynecologist will prescribe adequate therapy and refer the woman to the hospital for conservation.

After childbirth, the body will most likely return to the natural functioning of all systems, including the endocrine one. The process will take 3-4 months for non-breastfeeding mothers, and will be significantly longer for nursing mothers.

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance

Those features of the state of one’s own body that give a person reason to suspect that he or she has health problems are called symptoms. Many ailments have similar symptoms, that is, signs general. Thus, elevated body temperature is not normal, but it is impossible to diagnose a specific disease only by it. TO symptoms of hormonal imbalance in women may include:

  • Changes in the nature of menstruation, disruption of their usual cycle. Menstrual bleeding become scanty or unusually abundant, disappear for several months in the absence of pregnancy;
  • Problems with conception. It is this symptom that most often brings a woman to the doctor. Pregnancy that occurs due to hormonal imbalance has severe course with a constant threat of miscarriage;
  • Excessive sweating. Constant increased sweating at normal room temperatures indicates a serious malfunction in the body;
  • Itching in groin area, armpits, as well as various skin rashes on the body. The symptom is relevant in the absence of fungal and infectious diseases;
  • Swelling face and limbs;
  • Brittle hair and nails;
  • Night insomnia. The symptom is unpleasant because the absence normal sleep at night leads to increased fatigue and drowsiness during the day. It becomes impossible to work normally, apathy and lethargy appear;
  • Chronic fatigue. Follows from the previous symptom. Chronic fatigue is fatigue that does not go away after good rest and sleep;
  • Significant weight gain without changing your diet. Diets and exercise don't help;
  • Irritability, tearfulness, sentimentality and others, previously atypical character traits. The symptom feels reminiscent of the well-known premenstrual syndrome (PMS), but unlike it, it does not go away after a few days, but rather intensifies.

The presence of one or two symptoms from this list does not indicate hormonal disorders, but is a reason for visits to an endocrinologist, mammologist, or gynecologist.

Signs of pathology

Having told the doctor the reason for your visit, be prepared to answer a number of clarifying questions and go through several medical procedures. The examination will necessarily include blood tests - general and hormone tests. Afterwards you need to do an ultrasound of the pelvis and possibly other areas. This way the degree of damage to internal organs as a result of hormonal imbalance is determined.

After receiving the examination results and talking with the patient, the doctor will identify or exclude specific signs, characteristic specifically for hormonal disorders:

  • Intermenstrual bleeding, change in the duration of one of the phases of the cycle, lack of ovulation;
  • Hair Growth in places where they were not previously - above upper lip, on the chin, inner thighs, arms;
  • Hair loss on the head is also a sign of hormonal dysfunction;
  • Selection breast milk in the absence of lactation;
  • Cyst formation on the ovaries corpus luteum follicle;
  • Big quantity follicles in one ovary;
  • Deviation endometrial thickness from normal;
  • Education and growth myoma tumors;
  • Problems in sex life . Absence or decreased sexual desire and even irritation from the caresses of a partner.


After carefully studying the woman’s medical history, complaints, and test results, the doctor will develop an individual treatment regimen.

Treatment

Restoring hormonal balance is a delicate and lengthy process that requires a responsible approach from the woman herself and strict adherence to the doctor’s recommendations. Treatment is carried out using one of the following methods:

Taking oral contraceptives. Such drugs even out hormonal levels, normalize the cycle and course of menstruation. OK treatment is convenient, since there is no need to build a detailed regimen for taking hormones; they are pre-distributed in tablets. Probable side effects- nausea and vomiting due to individual intolerance, and after discontinuation of the OC, aggravation of the situation or unplanned pregnancy;

Personal selection of hormonal drugs. A gynecologist-endocrinologist describes a regimen for taking several medications, selected so as not to provoke a disruption in the production of normal hormones.

As aids in complex treatment include:

  • Neuroleptics to normalize the nervous system, restore sleep patterns and quality;
  • Vitamin complexes, calcium supplements, . Vitamins increase the body's endurance and have a positive effect on the activity of the thyroid gland;
  • Diet. Products containing phytoestrogens are introduced into the diet. These are berries, vegetables, fruits, all types of greens, legumes, onions, chicken eggs. Sources of zinc include lean beef and pumpkin seeds. Pork and sweets (especially chocolate) are completely excluded. If weight correction is necessary, the diet is supplemented with treatment with fat-burning hormonal agents;
  • Folk remedies. Recipes based on flax and cumin oils, herbs are recognized and have been used for a long time official medicine in the treatment of hormonal imbalances in women.