The work of hormones is subtle; we don't tend to think about their importance and the functions that they carry out, unless something goes off balance! Hormones work as chemical messengers impacting the functioning of cells and organs. During various phases like periods, pregnancy and menopause there is a shift in the hormonal balance. Occasionally medications and health issues can cause them to fluctuate.

Irregular Periods

A woman's menstrual cycle varies from 21-35 days. If your periods are abnormal or if they are missed altogether, it could signal a hormonal imbalance of too much or too little oestrogen and progesterone. Women in their fifties may be experiencing perimenopause resulting in irregular periods. However, younger women with irregular periods need to have this checked as this could be due to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This can be tested with the help of an ultrasound pelvic scan, which in the case of PCOS shows fluid filled sacs on the ovaries.

Not enough Zzzzzz

Did you know that Progesterone released by the ovaries helps you sleep well? If you wake up tired and feel groggy through the day, it could be because these levels are lower than they should be. On the other hand when there is a drop in oestrogen, this triggers hot flashes and night sweats making a good night's sleep hard to come by.
Melatonin is another hormone responsible for sleep and is secreted by the pineal gland in the brain. It maintains the body's circadian rhythm (the body's internal 24-hour ‘clock' that plays a critical role in sleep patterns). Sleeping in a well darkened room is important as when it is dark, your body produces more melatonin. As we age the body begins to produce less melatonin. Melatonin supplements taken an hour or two before going to bed may help. However, you need to consult your doctor before doing this. Do not self-medicate. A small study done by the Louisiana State University showed that drinking 8 oz. of tart cherry juice helped those with insomnia sleep well as compared to a placebo.

Acne

Persistent acne could be a sign of imbalanced hormones. Androgens- male hormones found in men and women can cause overproduction of sebum from oil glands. These hormones also cause pores to clog resulting in blocked hair follicles. Hormonal testing is recommended for females who have acne along with other symptoms like excess facial or body hair, deepening voice and irregular menstrual periods.

Foggy in the head?

Low oestrogen levels can directly impact our neurotransmitters, affecting our mood, stress levels, attention, memory and ability to think. Thyroid also plays a role, but other causes include adrenal fatigue, stress and being deprived of sleep.

Digestive Problems

Problems with indigestion can be caused due to hormones. The gut is lined with tiny cells called receptors that respond to oestrogen and progesterone. Fluctuation in these hormones can affect the way you digest food. Problems like diarrhoea; stomach pain, bloating, and nausea are common issues before and during your period. Digestive complaints along with issues like acne and fatigue could indicate that your hormone levels might be unbalanced.

Tiredness and Fatigue

Being constantly fatigued for no reason could be indicative of a thyroid imbalance. Excess progesterone can also make you sleepy. Too little thyroid hormone, it can sap your energy making simple tasks and staying alert difficult. Check your thyroid profile if you feel tired and lack energy.

No one needs to suffer the burden of out of balance hormones. Medical care is available and along with a good diet and the necessary lifestyle changes, most hormone problems are treatable.

Weight gain

Low oestrogen levels can cause an increase in appetite or lead to cravings for unhealthy junk foods for comfort. When you're feeling down or irritated, as is the case when your oestrogen levels dip, you may want to eat more. That might be why drops in the hormone are linked to weight gain. The low oestrogen can also impact your body's levels of leptin. Leptin regulates functions like metabolism, digestion and, very importantly, appetite. A hitch in this network will cause symptoms like weight gain.

Don't keep struggling with the hormonal issues. With all the medical advances many of these problems are treatable. Others can be managed with a healthy balanced diet, exercise and other healthy lifestyle modifications. Make sure you consult a Physician if you notice any of the above symptoms.