Causes, treatment and prevention of endocrinological disorders

Signs and symptoms of endocrinological disorders

There are many different endocrine-related diseases, each with its own symptoms. However, some of the most noticeable and easily recognizable signs include the following:

In women

• Menstrual disorder: Hormonal imbalances are a common cause of menstrual issues in women. These can include heavy bleeding, irregular periods, changes in the cycle length (either longer or shorter), or more painful cramps than usual. If these problems continue, they can lead to infertility.
• Unstable blood pressure: Hormones in the body directly affect blood pressure. When hormones like aldosterone are out of balance, it can lead to blood pressure problems, with high blood pressure (hypertension) being a common issue.
• Decreased libido: Estrogen and progesterone are important hormones for sexual pleasure in women. When these hormones are imbalanced, it can cause a lower sex drive and difficulty reaching orgasm during sex.
• Skin issues: Hormonal imbalances in women often lead to problems such as acne, dark spots, freckles, age spots, or hyperpigmentation.
• Mood changes: Women with hormonal imbalances may feel more negative, irritable, or experience mood swings and anger more easily.
• Frequent gynecological infections: Hormonal imbalances can prevent the vaginal walls from producing enough mucus to lubricate and keep the vagina moist. This alters the vaginal pH, creating an environment that promotes the growth of fungi and bacteria, which can lead to infections in the intimate area.

In men

• Similar to women, men with hormonal imbalances will also experience symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, frequent stress, and irritability.
• They may develop skin issues, primarily acne. Men are less likely to develop freckles and age spots compared to women.
• Excessive body hair growth.
• Reduced libido, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and difficulty concentrating.

Causes of endocrinological disorders

Endocrine disorders are usually caused by the following factors:

• Primary disorders: These are caused by problems with the glands that produce hormones, like the thyroid, adrenal glands, ovaries, and testes.
• Secondary disorders: These occur when the pituitary gland or hypothalamus (parts of the brain) cause problems by either not sending enough signals or sending too many signals to the hormone-producing glands.
• Rare causes: These happen when the organs that respond to hormones don’t react properly, usually leading to a decrease in function.

These disorders can lead to either an overproduction of hormones (causing hyperfunction) or underproduction of hormones (causing hypofunction).

How to treat endocrinological disorders

Various treatment methods are available for endocrine disorders, tailored to the cause of the disease and the patient’s condition.

In cases of hormone dysfunction

Treatment usually involves adding external hormones, no matter if the issue comes from the glands themselves or the pituitary gland. However, in some cases, like growth problems caused by a lack of growth hormone (GH), the procedure of endocrinology care may include synthetic HGH injections.

Most of the time, hormone supplements are taken in pill form, as seen in conditions like hypothyroidism or adrenal insufficiency.

In case of increased hormones in the blood

Treatment can include medications that stop the body from making too much of the hormone, surgery, or radiation, depending on the cause.

For example, if a patient has a pituitary tumor that makes too much prolactin, they might take medication to reduce prolactin levels or shrink the tumor. In some cases, surgery might be needed, depending on the size of the tumor and the symptoms.

How to avoid endocrinological disorders

Many endocrine disorders are caused by factors that can’t always be prevented. However, some can be avoided by making healthier lifestyle choices. These habits can help improve health and keep hormones balanced, such as:

• Keeping a healthy weight.
• Eating a balanced diet.
• Exercising regularly.
• Reducing stress.
• Getting enough sleep and going to bed on time.
• Not smoking.
• Managing any ongoing health conditions.

The Endocrinology Department of Hanoi French Hospital has experienced doctors who are dedicated to providing thorough check-ups and effective treatment for hormone-related issues, thyroid problems, diabetes, and more. They ensure patients feel confident in their health care.

To check your hormone health, identify potential risks, and get a proper treatment plan, contact us at 02435.741.111 for more information about endocrinology services and to book an appointment.

Endocrinological disorders can significantly affect health and quality of life. Therefore, when the body shows abnormal signs, patients should consult an endocrinologist to undergo a thorough examination, identify the cause, and receive early treatment to better protect their health.