Women experiencing undiagnosed and unexplained symptoms may want to work with a hormone specialist to determine if their endocrine system is not performing optimally. The endocrine system, responsible for producing and regulating hormones, plays a significant role in women’s overall health and well-being. This system consists of various glands and processes that create hormones that influence everything from metabolism and energy levels to mood, growth, and reproductive health. When hormonal imbalances arise, they can impact physical and emotional health, reduce a woman’s ability to become pregnant, and cause significant health concerns.
If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms, an endocrinologist can help diagnose and treat hormonal issues. Endocrinologists are physicians who specialize in hormone-related disorders, including those affecting women. They look at the sum of a patient’s symptoms and use their knowledge and testing to find the root causes of issues.
Here are four common hormone disorders in women that may signal the need for an endocrinologist.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is one of the most prevalent hormone disorders in women, affecting reproductive and metabolic health. Symptoms include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain. It’s associated with insulin resistance and increased levels of androgens (male hormones), which can disrupt ovulation. Women with PCOS typically struggle to become pregnant, and often need a mixture of lifestyle and medication changes to help.
Thyroid Disorders
The thyroid gland, located in the neck, regulates metabolism, energy levels, and body temperature. The gland can produce too little hormone, a condition called hypothyroidism or create too much, which is called hyperthyroidism. These conditions can cause a range of symptoms that can be difficult to diagnose. Women are more likely to experience thyroid issues, making it essential to address any unusual symptoms with a hormone specialist.
Menopause and Perimenopause
As women approach menopause, fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone can lead to hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia, and changes in bone density. Perimenopause, the period before menopause, can also cause symptoms that impact quality of life for the woman. An endocrinologist can guide women through this transition with appropriate treatments.
Adrenal Disorders
The adrenal glands produce hormones like cortisol that help the body respond to stress. Conditions like adrenal insufficiency or Cushing’s syndrome, caused by too much cortisol, can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, high blood pressure, and depression. These disorders often require specialized management, and again these symptoms are often not linked to adrenal problems unless the patient meets with an endocrinologist. Unlike primary care physicians, endocrinologists have specialized knowledge of hormonal functions and how different endocrine glands interact.
Endocrinologists use tests and diagnostic tools to pinpoint the causes of various symptoms. They also understand the complete metabolic picture, and can develop personalized treatment plans that mix lifestyle changes with the latest medications. They know the metabolic system and hormones require a holistic approach to care. Women experiencing symptoms such as mood swings, weight loss, unexplained fatigue, or similar concerns should find a well-regarded endocrinologist to guide their care.
Dr. Brian Fertig is a leading expert in the field of hormonal health for both women and men. As an accomplished author, Dr. Fertig has contributed valuable insights into the role of endocrinology in holistic health and well-being. His work emphasizes a scientific approach to understanding and managing hormone-related conditions.