Side Effects Related to Hormone Imbalance

Out of all the chemical imbalances that appear in the body, those involving hormones can be the most noticeable of all. Not only do they regulate our reproductive system and functions, they play significant roles in most every process in the body. When an imbalance is present, noticeable side effects are the result.

Identification

• Hormones are the chemical messengers of the body. These chemicals are secreted by glands into the bloodstream, where they can access nearby cells. Hormones work by activating, or signaling cell functions. In effect, they act as catalysts for cell functions, as well as the functions that take place in the body. The body's endocrine system is responsible for regulating gland secretions. Some of the glands and organs controlled by the endocrine system include the pituitary, adrenal, thyroid, the pancreas and the ovaries and testes. A hormonal imbalance occurs when secretion levels are not where they need to be.

Types

• Hormones come in two categories--steroids, and peptides. Steroids are produced in the sexual reproductive system by the testes(in men) or the ovaries(in women), as well as by the adrenal glands. Estrogen, testosterone and cortisol are some of the chemicals produced by these glands. Hair loss, premenstrual syndrome, menopause and depression are common side effects experienced when one or more of these hormone levels is out of balance. ACTH, glucogon and oxytocin are a few of the peptide hormones produced by the body. These are secreted by the pituitary gland and the pancreas. Side effects experienced when one of these chemicals is out of balance include fatigue, blood sugar disorders and anxiety.

Neurotransmitter Functions

• A person's mental and emotional health relies heavily on the right balance of chemicals in the brain. Neurotransmitters are the chemicals secreted by the nerve cells in the brain. As the pituitary gland is located in the brain region, the interplay between these two sets of chemicals has an impact on hormone secretions throughout the body. An imbalance in neurotransmitter secretions will eventually throw off hormone levels as well. Stress and poor nutrition can adversely effect both sets of chemicals, causing side effects along the lines of depression, anxiety, problems sleeping and weight gain or weight loss.

Causes

• Any number of causes can contribute to hormonal imbalances in the body. The close relationship between the hormonal and neurotransmitter systems means mental or emotional issues--especially those that go on for long periods of time--can throw off chemical balances in the body. A person can also be genetically predisposed to hormonal imbalances as well. Medication side effects, poor nutrition and chronic infections can also affect the body's chemical balance. In addition, overall body function does tend to decline with the aging process, meaning cellular functions and body processes function less efficiently. As the system breaks down, hormonal imbalances are likely.

Treatments

• In order to treat a hormonal imbalance, the cause of the condition must first be identified. Women approaching menopause may very be experiencing the effects of aging. When this is the case, hormone replacement therapies are typically used to treat this condition. Ongoing stress in a person's life can lead to neurotransmitter imbalances in the brain, which in turn affect hormonal secretions. When this is the cause, antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications may help with restoring the body's chemical balance. Poor dietary habits can also deprive the body of the minerals and nutrients needed to support hormone production processes. Nutritional supplements and vitamins may help with providing these missing dietary nutrients.