Dr. Trevor Miller and Jessica Miller, RN, work on foundational health. Their expertise covers a wide birth of topics, giving them the unique ability to recognize unusual patterns. This allows them to be able to pick out issues that others have missed or that previous treatments have uncovered.
Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers, playing a critical role in regulating a wide array of physiological processes, from metabolism to mood. While many of us are familiar with common signs of hormonal imbalance, such as weight gain, fatigue, or irregular periods, there are also less obvious symptoms that may indicate something is amiss. These subtle signs are often overlooked or misattributed to other causes, delaying diagnosis and treatment. Here, we delve into 11 uncommon symptoms that may point to hormonal trouble, providing insight into how our hormones influence the body in surprising ways.
1. Persistent fatigue without a clear cause
Feeling tired occasionally is normal, but persistent fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest may be a sign of hormonal imbalance. Thyroid hormones, particularly T3 and T4, regulate energy production at the cellular level. Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) can lead to reduced energy output, causing an overwhelming sense of exhaustion. Similarly, adrenal gland dysfunction, such as adrenal fatigue, occurs when cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone, are either too high or too low, resulting in chronic fatigue. If you find yourself constantly drained despite a good night’s sleep, it’s worth investigating your hormonal health.
2. Dry or brittle hair and nails
Healthy hair and nails are often a reflection of balanced hormones. When thyroid hormones or estrogen levels are out of sync, they can affect keratin production, leading to dry, brittle hair that breaks easily and nails that chip or peel. Low thyroid function is a common culprit, as it slows down metabolic processes, reducing the delivery of essential nutrients to these tissues. In some cases, androgen imbalances can also contribute to hair thinning or breakage, making this symptom an important clue to underlying hormonal issues.
3. Unexplained weight fluctuations
While weight gain or loss is often associated with diet and exercise, hormonal imbalances can play a significant role in unexpected weight changes. For instance, hypothyroidism can slow metabolism, leading to weight gain even when caloric intake remains stable. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) may cause unintentional weight loss. Additionally, insulin resistance, a condition where cells fail to respond effectively to insulin, can lead to weight gain and difficulty losing weight, often signaling the onset of type 2 diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
4. Frequent mood swings or anxiety
Mood swings and anxiety are often attributed to external stressors, but they can also stem from hormonal imbalances. Estrogen and progesterone fluctuations, especially during perimenopause or in cases of hormonal disorders like PCOS, can disrupt the brain’s neurotransmitter activity.
Cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, also plays a role. Chronically elevated cortisol levels can overstimulate the nervous system, leading to anxiety, while low cortisol levels can contribute to feelings of irritability or depression. If emotional changes seem disproportionate or unprovoked, hormonal testing may provide answers.
5. Unusual skin issues (e.g., adult acne)
Acne is often associated with adolescence, but persistent or adult-onset acne can signal a hormonal imbalance. Elevated levels of androgens, such as testosterone, can increase sebum production, clogging pores and leading to breakouts. This is common in conditions like PCOS, where excess androgens disrupt the normal hormonal balance. Conversely, low estrogen levels can lead to dry, sensitive skin that is prone to irritation. Other skin conditions, such as melasma (dark patches on the skin), may result from imbalances in estrogen and progesterone, often during pregnancy or while taking hormonal contraceptives.
6. Memory fog or difficulty concentrating
Hormonal fluctuations can have a profound impact on cognitive function, leading to memory issues and difficulty concentrating. Estrogen, for instance, influences brain function by supporting neurotransmitters and improving blood flow to the brain. During menopause or in cases of low estrogen levels, some women experience memory fog, described as a sense of mental cloudiness or forgetfulness. Similarly, imbalances in cortisol can interfere with focus and clarity. High cortisol levels can impair short-term memory, while low levels may lead to sluggish thinking.
7. Increased sensitivity to cold or heat
Feeling unusually cold or hot, even when the temperature is moderate, can be a sign of thyroid dysfunction. The thyroid gland regulates the body’s internal thermostat through its production of T3 and T4 hormones. Hypothyroidism can lower body temperature, making individuals more sensitive to cold, while hyperthyroidism may cause excessive sweating and sensitivity to heat. If your temperature preferences seem to deviate significantly from normal, it’s worth exploring your thyroid health.
8. Digestive problems (e.g., bloating, constipation)
While digestive issues are often blamed on diet or stress, hormones also play a crucial role in gut health. Cortisol, estrogen, and thyroid hormones can all influence gut motility and microbiome balance. Hypothyroidism may slow digestion, leading to constipation, while high cortisol levels can disrupt gut flora, causing bloating or diarrhea. Women may notice these symptoms fluctuate with their menstrual cycle, as changes in estrogen and progesterone levels can affect digestion and abdominal comfort.
9. Low libido or sexual dysfunction
Sexual health is closely tied to hormonal balance. Testosterone, often thought of as a male hormone, is also essential for female libido. Low levels of testosterone can lead to reduced sexual desire and satisfaction. In women, estrogen and progesterone fluctuations, such as those occurring during menopause, can contribute to vaginal dryness and discomfort during intercourse. In men, low testosterone levels can result in erectile dysfunction or decreased interest in sex.
Addressing hormonal imbalances can often restore sexual well-being.
10. Cravings for sugar or salt
Cravings for specific foods can sometimes signal an underlying hormonal issue. High cortisol levels, often associated with chronic stress, can drive sugar cravings as the body seeks quick energy to counteract perceived threats. On the other hand, low levels of aldosterone—a hormone produced by the adrenal glands—can lead to salt cravings. Aldosterone helps regulate sodium and potassium levels, so deficiencies may cause the body to seek out salty foods to restore balance.
These cravings, when persistent and unexplained, may warrant a closer look at adrenal and cortisol function.
11. Nocturnal polyuria
Getting up at night to urinate multiple times can indicate hormonal deficiencies. Progesterone levels correlate positively to getting up at night to urinate. It also correlates to painful intercourse and incontinence.
What to do if you suspect a hormonal imbalance
If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself, it’s important not to ignore them. Hormonal imbalances can have widespread effects on your overall health and quality of life. Here are some steps to take:
Consult a healthcare provider such as Integrated Health of Indiana: Speak with a doctor or functional medicine doctor who specializes in hormonal health. They can order appropriate blood tests or other diagnostics to identify imbalances.
Track your symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms, noting their frequency, severity, and any triggers. This information can help your healthcare provider pinpoint potential hormonal disruptions.
Adopt a balanced diet: Nutritional deficiencies can exacerbate hormonal issues. A diet rich in whole foods, lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber can support hormonal balance.
Prioritize stress management: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on hormones. Incorporate stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness, yoga, or regular exercise.
Get adequate sleep: Sleep is crucial for hormonal regulation. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
Consider hormonal therapy: Depending on the severity of your imbalance, your doctor may recommend treatments such as bioidentical hormone therapy, thyroid medication, or supplements.
Conclusion
Our hormones have a profound impact on every aspect of our physical and mental health, yet their influence is often underestimated. Symptoms like brittle hair, skin issues, or unusual cravings may seem unrelated to hormones at first glance but can provide vital clues about underlying imbalances. By recognizing these uncommon signs and seeking appropriate medical guidance, you can address hormonal trouble early and improve your overall well-being. If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms that defy explanation, don’t hesitate to investigate your hormonal health. Your body will thank you for it.
Read more from Dr. Trevor Miller and Jessica Miller, RN
Dr. Trevor Miller and Jessica Miller, RN, Integrated Health of Indiana
Dr Miller and Nurse Jessica have dedicated their professional lives to helping people live their best lives. Concentrating on healing from the inside out, they use a program to comprehensively address problems with hormones, foundational gut health, the microbiome, and mitochondrial health. Realizing that these are all tied together and addressing them as a whole leads to happier and healthier patients.
