Don’t ignore these 10 warning signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance, says gynaecologist

Hormonal imbalance can show up through signs like fatigue, mood swings, weight changes, and irregular periods, making early recognition important for better health.(Image: Pexels)

It may all seem like a part of a bad day; irregular periods, unexpected weight changes, snapping at a colleague or partner for no clear reason. The truth is, these could be the symptoms of hormonal disbalance.

Never brush off a missed period or a stretch of sleepless nights as harmless, as it may be waving a red flag, Dr Aruna Kalra, Director, Obstetrics and Gynecology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram told Moneycontrol. “Hormones are behind nearly everything, from metabolism to mood. When they fall out of sync, the effects can ripple across your entire system.”

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Your hormones regulate everything from menstruation to mood. Dr Kalra told Moneycontrol, “When these messengers go haywire—either too much or too little—it can lead to a range of physical and emotional symptoms.” She stresses that recognising these changes early can help avoid more serious health issues.

Dr Kalra shares 10 warning signs that might signal your hormones need a check-up:

• Irregular or missed periods: It may seem harmless, but don’t ignore a missed period. Conditions like PCOS or thyroid disease are often behind it.

• Unexplained weight changes: if your weight fluctuates, despite no lifestyle or diet changes, hormones like insulin or cortisol might be the culprit.

• Persistent fatigue: being just tired is one thing, but constant exhaustion could billing to thyroid imbalance or adrenal fatigue.

• Mood swings and anxiety: Shifting levels of oestrogen and progesterone can cause emotional turbulence, specially around PMS, peri-menopause, or postpartum.

• Acne and skin changes: Acne doesn’t always end with your salad days. Sudden adult breakouts or oily skin in your 30s or 40s could be down to excess androgens or low oestrogen level.

• Hair loss or excess facial hair: They are the classic symptoms of Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid imbalance

• Hot flashes or night sweats: These are often triggered by falling oestrogen during menopause or peri menopause.

• Insomnia: Keeping awake till late in the night is another symptom. Hormonal dips, especially in oestrogen and  progesterone, can be blamed for causing insomnia.

• Low libido: Being disinterested in intimacy, and a drop in sex drive, may be linked to declining testosterone or thyroid hormone levels

• Digestive issues: bloating or irregular bowel habits that come and go with your cycle may also have a hormonal link.

Q: What causes hormonal imbalance?

A: Hormonal imbalance can be caused by various factors including stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, and underlying medical conditions such as PCOS or thyroid disease.

Q: How can hormonal imbalance be diagnosed?

A: Hormonal imbalance can be diagnosed through blood tests, medical history, and symptoms evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Q: Can lifestyle changes help manage hormonal imbalance?

A: Yes, lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can help in managing hormonal imbalance.

Q: Should I see a doctor if I experience any of these symptoms?

A: Yes, you should consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of these symptoms to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.