Hormone deficiency - Renewal Hormone Center

What is hormone deficiency?

A hormone deficiency occurs when your body does not produce enough of a certain hormone. Hormones are chemicals produced by glands and released into the bloodstream. They travel to organs and tissues and help control important bodily functions like growth, metabolism, reproduction, and mood.

Common hormone deficiencies include:

• Thyroid deficiency: The thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. This can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold.
• Growth hormone deficiency: The pituitary gland makes inadequate amounts of growth hormone. Children may have growth failure and short stature. Adults can have decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, and lower energy.
• Testosterone deficiency: Low testosterone affects around 4-5 million men in the U.S. It can lead to reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction, decreased energy, and loss of muscle mass.

What causes hormone deficiencies?

Hormone deficiencies can be caused by:

• Diseases affecting glands like the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands or pancreas
• Inflammation or tumors which damage glands
• Treatment with certain medications like steroids
• Genetic conditions present from birth

How is a hormone deficiency diagnosed?

If symptoms suggest an underlying deficiency, a doctor will check hormone levels using a simple blood test. For example, a low level of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) indicates the thyroid gland itself is not working properly.

Compare hormone levels to standard reference ranges for your age and gender. Your doctor may also examine body systems controlled by the deficient hormone or do imaging tests to visualize the gland.

How are hormone deficiencies treated?

Treatment aims to replace the hormone someone is lacking. Options include:

• Synthetic hormones taken as oral pills, injections, or gels/creams absorbed through skin
• Desiccated/bioidentical hormones from natural plant or animal sources
• For thyroid issues, tablets containing levothyroxine (a synthetic thyroid hormone)

It is important treatment is tailored to the individual patient and hormone levels are monitored to prevent over-replacement. If an underlying condition is causing the deficiency, that will also need treatment.

The hormone experts at Renewal Hormone Center provide complete care for any suspected deficiency. Their clinics offer cutting-edge testing methods, bioidentical hormone therapies, and specialized treatment plans to get your levels balanced properly. Contact Renewal Hormone Center today to take control of your health!