What to Expect During Hormone Imbalance Testing
As you age, hormone imbalances can lead to various health concerns. For men, this may mean less energy, lower libido and unstable moods. For women, it could mean uncomfortable changes during menopause, including hot flashes, weight gain and disrupted sleep.
The journey to treating these afflictions begins with understanding your current hormone levels. Let’s walk through the diagnosis and treatment process.
What Should I Bring to the Appointment?
This is considered a regular medical appointment. Have your medical history and insurance paperwork handy, as well as a list of the symptoms you’re concerned about. Be as honest as possible about the changes you’ve noticed.
How Do Doctors Test for Hormone Imbalance?
The first step is an intake meeting, at which your doctor reviews your health history and performs a physical examination. During this appointment, your doctor will note any hormone-related symptoms and request the appropriate tests. These are the typical ones to expect.
Blood Tests
The most common hormone test is a simple blood draw. Your physician will find your vein, then insert a needle to pull out blood into a vial. You’ll feel a prick, but it typically doesn’t hurt. They’ll then send the sample to a lab that measures the levels of various hormones, including:
- Sex hormones: estrogen and testosterone
- Thyroid hormones: Thyroxine and Triiodothyronine
- Pituitary hormones: Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
Imaging Tests
Your doctor may elect to use an ultrasound, X-ray or MRI to examine specific glands for abnormalities. If they see an issue, you may undergo a biopsy or similar procedure.
Female-Specific Tests
A pelvic exam or pap smear allows doctors to check for lumps, cysts or other abnormalities.
I Have a Hormone Imbalance. What Is the Next Step?
There are safe and effective ways to treat a hormone imbalance. Once your physician has identified a deficiency, you’ll discuss the best approach based on your symptoms, age, overall health and lifestyle. Treatments may include:
Testosterone Replacement Therapy
For men experiencing low libido, loss of energy, muscle decline or mood swings, testosterone replacement therapy can help. It’ll restore your hormone levels and help you feel energized.
Treatment can be done through injection, patches, gels or in the form of bioidentical pellets that steadily release testosterone into your system.
Estrogen Replacement Therapy
Women who experience symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, sleeplessness or weight gain can find relief in estrogen replacement therapy. This treatment can be delivered in a number of ways, including creams, pills, patches and pellets. Your doctor will determine the proper dose and delivery method for you.
Thyroid Hormone Treatment
Hypothyroidism can cause fatigue, dry skin, weight gain and irregular menstrual cycles. Bioidentical thyroid therapy boosts your thyroid hormone levels with an identical, synthetically produced replacement.
Pituitary Hormone Treatment
Your pituitary gland regulates a number of important hormones associated with growth, hair production and adrenaline. Several pituitary treatments are available depending on your symptoms.
Get Clear Hormone Advice
If you think you may suffer from any type of hormone deficiency, don’t hesitate to get tested by the experts at Balance Hormone Center. We’re here to help you navigate the treatment options and match your symptoms with the right form of relief. Schedule your appointment today.
