Hormones, those important chemical messengers, play a crucial role in managing various processes within your body. They control metabolism, sleep, digestion, menstrual cycles, heart health, and more. However, when these hormones fall out of balance, it can wreak havoc on your body's fundamental functions, leading to a decrease in your overall quality of life. You should consider checking your hormones before starting your hair loss treatment or addressing other weird symptoms that appeared out of nowhere. Here are eight signs of hormonal imbalance that you should be mindful of.

1. Unexplained weight gain
Struggling with excess weight is a common concern, often linked to an unhealthy diet and insufficient physical activity. Nutrient deficiencies can stress your body, causing cortisol levels (a stress hormone) to spike. Cortisol pushes your body into survival mode, encouraging it to store fat for energy. Additionally, imbalances in thyroid hormones can hinder your metabolism, contributing to rapid weight gain.

2. Sleep disturbances
Insomnia, the sleep-stealer, can make falling and staying asleep a nightly challenge. This issue might stem from a disrupted hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, a complex system regulating interactions between your endocrine and central nervous systems. This axis also manages your sleep-wake cycle and related hormones like melatonin and cortisol. Hormonal imbalances can lead to difficulty falling asleep, waking up and even compromising sleep quality.

3. Heart concerns
Hormones wield significant influence over your heart health. Insulin, a vital hormone produced by the pancreas, regulates blood glucose levels and facilitates the conversion of glucose into energy. A hormonal imbalance affecting insulin can elevate the risk of cardiovascular problems, including high cholesterol and blood pressure.

4. Persistent fatigue
Feeling tired occasionally is normal, but persistent fatigue despite ample rest and sleep might indicate underlying hormonal issues. Conditions like adrenal fatigue and an underactive thyroid gland can leave you feeling drained and low on energy. If your exhaustion persists, even with proper self-care, seeking medical attention to evaluate your hormone levels is advisable.

5. Upset digestion
Your hormones have a say in your digestive health too. They impact your gut function by influencing the microbiome and bacterial composition in your intestines. Imbalances in gut bacteria can lead to discomforts like bloating, constipation, diarrhea, or nausea. Women often experience these symptoms due to hormonal fluctuations during their menstrual cycle.

6. Mood fluctuations
Hormones have a significant impact on your mood and mental well-being. Over 18 percent of people in the U.S. grapple with hormone-related mood disorders, including depression and anxiety. Women, especially, face mood challenges due to hormonal shifts during menstruation, menopause, and pregnancy. Men with low testosterone levels are also more vulnerable to depression and anxiety.

7. Skin and hair troubles
Hormones can influence your skin and hair health. Elevated levels of male hormones called androgens can trigger acne outbreaks by increasing sebum production. Excess sebum accumulates on your skin, clogging pores and raising the risk of breakouts. Hair quality is also linked to hormones; abnormal thyroid hormone production can lead to dry scalp and hair loss, necessitating specialized hair restoration procedures.

8. Issues with libido
Low libido is a disorder that is particularly common in women going through perimenopause or menopause due to decreased levels of both estrogen and testosterone (although testosterone is more usually recognized as a male hormone, women also have it). Additional menopausal symptoms such as night sweats, tiredness, sadness, and anxiety may also have an impact on your sexual life.

The bottom line 
Hormonal imbalances can disrupt your body's harmony and impact various aspects of your well-being. While these signs provide crucial insights, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment. By staying vigilant and seeking timely intervention, you can regain control of your hormonal balance and improve your overall quality of life.