A hormone deficiency occurs when your body does not produce enough of a certain hormone. Hormones are chemicals that are made by glands and sent into the bloodstream to trigger functions in other parts of the body. Some examples of hormones include:
Some common signs and symptoms of a hormone deficiency include:
Hormone production declines naturally with age, but deficiencies can happen at any age due to problems with the glands themselves. Certain disorders or diseases affecting the endocrine system can also lead to hormone deficiencies.
What causes hormone deficiencies?
There are a few possible causes of hormone deficiencies:
Doctors may order blood tests or use medical imaging to evaluate hormone levels and rule out underlying conditions causing the deficiency.
How are hormone deficiencies treated?
The treatment for a hormone deficiency usually involves hormone replacement therapy. This means taking supplements of the deficient hormone to restore levels. The hormone supplements can be given as pills, injections, gels or skin patches.
Sometimes underlying conditions need to be treated first before hormone therapy can work well. Doctors also monitor people on long-term hormone therapy for side effects or complications.
In summary, hormone deficiencies occur when glands fail to produce adequate amounts of hormones essential for functions like growth, reproduction and metabolism. Blood tests help diagnose deficiencies, while hormone replacement therapy is the standard treatment. Catching and managing deficiencies early on can prevent long term health problems.