Hormone fluctuations are a normal part of aging
Throughout our lives, our bodies are constantly changing, and while we may stop growing in our teenage years, there are loads of changes happening in our bodies – both visible and not-so-visible.
Hormones are one of those not-so-visible things that fluctuate fairly frequently through different life stages, and those fluctuations can cause some issues and symptoms. Hormone imbalances are very common as we age, but not everyone knows whether or not they have a hormone imbalance that is causing their bodies to function at a less-than-optimal rate.
So, how do you know when you have a hormone imbalance, and how does hormone replacement therapy (HRT) help? There are a few key signs and symptoms to watch out for in both men and women that may indicate it’s time to seek HRT.
Signs of hormone imbalances in women
In women, the natural decline in estrogen levels over time is what causes menopause, and menopause can come with a lot of uncomfortable symptoms.
As is the case with any medical symptom, no two women will experience menopause the same way, and some lucky few won’t feel all that different as they move into perimenopause and menopause. But for those who do experience symptoms as a result of estrogen decline, they usually present as one or a combination of these symptoms:
- Mood swings
- Hot flashes
- Irregular menstruation
- Infertility
- Pain in the abdomen or back during menstruation
- Low libido
- Insomnia
- Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
- Brittle bones
It’s important to note that many of these symptoms can also be explained by a totally different medical issue, so taking a thorough blood test – like the one from 10X Health System – is the first step in identifying the root cause for any symptoms you may be experiencing and getting yourself on the right treatment path.
Signs of hormone imbalances in men
While there is definitely some overlap in symptoms that may indicate a hormone imbalance in both men and women, like low libido and decreased energy levels, men usually experience hormone imbalances differently. The main reason for this is that, in men, we are talking about a decline in testosterone, whereas women are experiencing a decline in estrogen.
An imbalance or decline in testosterone can present in the following symptoms:
- Low libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of muscle mass
- Hair thinning or reduced hair growth
- Tenderness in the chest
How does hormone therapy help with hormone imbalances?
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) are great treatments used to help both men and women manage the symptoms of hormone imbalances by replenishing hormone levels to the optimal level their bodies need to function and thrive.
By starting with a comprehensive blood test and evaluating your current hormone levels, our hormone specialists at 10X Health can put together a treatment course that will both address your symptoms and optimize your whole system.
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While changes in hormones are a normal part of aging, the symptoms that come with those changes don’t have to be. HRT is a wonderful option for those experiencing early signs of hormone imbalance or those who just want to support their system as they age.
Think you may be experiencing a hormone imbalance and want to see if hormone replacement therapy is the right treatment to get your hormone levels back on track? Contact our team at 10X Health to get started with some comprehensive testing and speak to one of our hormone specialists.
