Hormone deficiency

What is hormone deficiency?

Hormone deficiency, also known as endocrine deficiency, occurs when your body does not produce enough of a certain hormone. Hormones are essential chemical messengers that help regulate many important body functions. When there is a deficiency, your body cannot maintain homeostasis (balance) properly.

Some common signs and symptoms of hormone deficiency include:

• Fatigue


• Weight changes


• Difficulty sleeping


• Changes in mood or behavior


• Reduced sex drive


• Muscle weakness


• Insulin resistance

Hormone deficiencies can occur due to a variety of reasons:

• Genetic conditions - you can be born with a deficiency that runs in your family


• Dysfunction of glands - your pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, etc glands don't produce what they should


• Some medical treatments like surgery or radiation


• Autoimmune disorders - when your immune system attacks your own glands

Proper diagnosis is important, as many conditions share similar symptoms. Blood tests and imaging scans may be used to help detect where the core issue lies. Treatment depends on the cause, but may involve medications to correct imbalances, and in some cases hormone therapy.

I hope this overview on hormone deficiencies was helpful! Please feel free to ask any other questions below.