Hormone Imbalance
A hormone imbalance is a condition that occurs when the body produces too much or too little of a particular hormone. Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate various bodily functions, including growth and development, metabolism, mood, and sexual function. At Bayside Regenerative Medicine, determining and maintaining optimal hormone balance is a four step process: Evaluation, Testing, Treatment, and Monitoring.
Evaluating
The initial evaluation of hormone imbalance typically involves a comprehensive medical history and physical examination.
Testing
Blood tests: These are the most common tests used to evaluate hormone levels in the body. They involve drawing blood and testing ti for levels of specific hormones, such as thyroid hormones, insulin, cortisol, testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and growth hormone.
Urine tests: Urine tests can be used to measure levels of certain hormones, such as cortisol and estrogen.
Saliva tests: Saliva tests can be used to measure levels of hormones such ascortisol and testosterone.
Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan can be used to evaluate the function of specific organs that produce hormones, such as the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and ovaries or testes.
Treating
The treatment of hormone imbalance depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Options include:
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): This involves replacing the deficient hormone with a synthetic or natural hormone to restore normal levels in the body. This may include the use of bioidentical hormones, which are derived from plant sources and are chemically identical to the hormones produced by the body.
Medications: Certain medications, such as birth control pills, can help regulate hormone levels in the body.
Surgery: Surgery may be recommended in cases where the hormone imbalance is caused by a tumor or other abnormal growth that needs to be removed.
Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle modifications such as changes in diet, exercise, and stress management can help improve hormone balance.
Alternative therapies: Certain alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and herbal supplements, may be beneficial in treating hormone imbalance.
Hormone imbalance can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. If you are experiencing any symptoms such as changes in your mood, energy, metabolism, libido, and health, contact Dr. Kalmbacher today to make an appointment to start your journey to a wellbeing.
Want to start today? These are the top 5 lifestyle changes you can make:
Before you have your customized plan from Dr. Kalmbacher, these are things you can do today to help hormone imbalance:
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Eat a healthy and balanced diet: A diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, can help support hormone balance. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of saturated and trans fats.
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Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help regulate hormone levels, reduce stress, and improve mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
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Manage stress: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance and lead to a range of health problems. Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
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Get enough sleep: Poor sleep quality can interfere with hormone production and regulation, leading to hormone imbalances. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and practice good sleep hygiene, such as avoiding electronics before bed.
Dr. Kalmbacher will guide you through the best option, but it is always good to be informed. So, familiarize yourself with hormone replacement therapy. In some cases, hormone replacement therapy may be recommended to help balance hormone levels. This may include the use of bioidentical hormones, which are derived from plant sources and are chemically identical to the hormones produced by the body.