Hormonal Imbalance: Symptoms in Men and Women

Dr.Monika Sharma, 3 mins read

In today’s fast-paced life, many people feel tired, stressed, anxious, or unwell without knowing the exact reason. We often blame work pressure, poor sleep, or ageing. However, one hidden cause behind many common health problems is hormonal imbalance.

Hormones control important functions in our body, and even a small imbalance can affect our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. If we recognise the symptoms early, it can help us to seek timely medical care and improve our quality of life.

What Is Hormonal Imbalance?

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands such as the thyroid gland, adrenal glands, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. They travel through the bloodstream and regulate growth, metabolism, mood, reproduction, sleep, and many other body functions. A hormonal imbalance occurs when there is too much or too little of a particular hormone in the body. This imbalance can be temporary or long-term, depending on the cause.

Common causes include stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, obesity, medical conditions (like thyroid disorders or diabetes), medications, ageing, and lifestyle habits.

Common Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance:-

Some symptoms are common in both men and women. These include:

• Constant tiredness or low energy
  
• Sudden weight gain or weight loss
  
• Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
  
• Sleep problems or insomnia
  
• Hair thinning or hair loss
  
• Skin problems such as acne or dryness
  
• Low immunity or frequent illnesses
  

Since these symptoms are very common, hormonal imbalance often goes unnoticed or ignored.

Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance in Women

Women are more likely to experience hormonal changes due to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Common symptoms in women include:

• Irregular periods or missed cycles
  
• Heavy or painful periods
  
• Acne, especially around the jawline
  
• Excess facial or body hair
  
• Weight gain, especially around the hips and abdomen
  
• Mood changes, irritability, or anxiety
  
• Hot flashes and night sweats (common during menopause)
  
• Low libido or vaginal dryness
  
• Fertility issues
  

Conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), thyroid disorders, and menopause are common causes of hormonal imbalance in women.

Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance in Men

Hormonal imbalance in men is often linked to low testosterone or thyroid problems. Common symptoms include:

• Low sex drive
  
• Erectile dysfunction
  
• Loss of muscle mass
  
• Increased body fat, especially around the belly
  
• Low energy and fatigue
  
• Mood changes, irritability, or depression
  
• Reduced beard or body hair growth
  
• Poor concentration and memory issues
  

Low testosterone levels may increase with age, but lifestyle factors such as stress, obesity, and poor sleep also play a major role.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If symptoms persist for several weeks or start affecting daily life, it is important to consult a doctor. Blood tests and medical evaluation can help identify hormone levels and the underlying cause. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term complications. 

Managing Hormonal Imbalance

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. It may include:

• Lifestyle changes such as balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper sleep
  
• Stress management through yoga, meditation, or counseling
  
• Medications or hormone therapy when required
  
• Treating underlying medical conditions
  

Never self-medicate with hormones, as improper use can worsen the problem.

Takeaway!

Hormonal imbalance is more common than most people realize and can affect both men and women at any age. With early awareness, proper diagnosis, and healthy lifestyle changes, most hormonal problems can be managed effectively. At Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, our expert endocrinologist with hands-on advanced diagnostics with patient-centric care ensures timely evaluation and personalized treatment and care plan. 

So, dont wait for signs and symptoms to rule your body, rather come and seek timely advice from our endocrinologist.