Poor appetite, acne, mood swings, and high cholesterol are just a few of the issues that may be attributed to hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalances are prevalent and can impact both males and females. Certain imbalances are temporary, whereas others may have long-term or chronic effects. The good news is that when diagnosed in time, hormonal imbalances can be rectified with medication and lifestyle changes.
Genetic tests help us better understand the risks of hormonal imbalances and empower us to take proactive measures to improve our health.
Read on to learn about the advantages of using genetic testing to take charge of your health.
How Do Hormones Influence Your Health?
Hormones are potent chemicals that control all of our major internal processes. Researchers have identified over 50 distinct hormones in the human body. Different glands in the endocrine system produce these hormones, and each has a distinct role. Estrogen and progesterone are vital female hormones, while androgens and testosterone are the primary male hormones.
There may be a fluctuation of some hormone levels throughout your life. As you age, your hormone production may increase or decrease. Genetic factors may also determine an individual’s susceptibility to hormonal imbalances. For example, diabetes and PCOS are hormone-related conditions that may be passed on from parent to child through their genes.
Think of hormones as ingredients for a cake. Too little or too much ingredient can largely influence the outcome.
Common Conditions Caused by Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances are common, but they have the potential to cause severe health conditions. This is one of the reasons why more and more people are opting to get their DNA tested to track their hormonal imbalances. Some of the conditions caused by hormonal imbalances that can be controlled through early detection are as follows:
Irregular Periods
Hormonal imbalances can affect the duration of menstrual cycles. As a result, periods may come earlier or later than expected, and in some cases, they may be skipped entirely. Understanding the hormone levels influencing the menstrual cycle can help regulate them.
Infertility
Hormonal imbalances are one of the most common causes of infertility. This is especially common among females. Other hormonal conditions that could cause infertility include PCOS and anovulation. In the case of men, a testosterone imbalance can contribute to infertility.
Acne
Hormonal imbalances often cause a sudden increase in facial acne, most commonly during puberty. A surge in hormone levels can stimulate the oil glands, leading to clogged pores.
This is commonly experienced by people taking testosterone therapy and women going through pregnancy or menopause.
Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the most common hormone-related health issues. In this case, the body doesn’t create enough insulin or cannot effectively use the produced insulin. Some types of diabetes are passed from parents to children. Genetic testing can provide insights into your likelihood of inheriting diabetes. If your body has an insulin imbalance, it can help you seek early treatment.
Thyroid Disease
A disproportion of thyroid hormones can result in hypothyroidism (low thyroid levels) or hyperthyroidism (high thyroid levels). When detected early, this can be treated with medication.
Obesity
Imbalanced hormones can also affect your metabolism and how your body processes food. This can increase body weight and raise the risk of developing other conditions like diabetes or heart issues. Excessive production of hormones such as cortisol can also increase the chances of obesity.
What is Genetic Testing?
As the name suggests, genetic testing is focused on studying the DNA structure or chromosome structures to identify mutations or changes. This can help make risk predictions or diagnose and rule out hormonal imbalances and other related health issues.
Service providers like 3X4 Genetics make genetic testing more accessible to everyone. These are tests anyone can take at home. Testing kits can be ordered online. Once you get your kit, wipe the inside of your cheek with a swab to collect tissue samples. The next step is to send the samples to the lab, where they will be processed.
A report will be mailed back within a few days with a detailed genetic report. This offers personalized insights into critical areas, such as how your genetic makeup influences hormonal signaling pathways and the production of essential hormones. You may also understand characteristics like your genetic predisposition to stress management and the impact of your reproductive hormones on fertility, among others.
Signs and Symptoms Indicating a Need for Genetic Testing
At-home genetic testing makes it easy for everyone to track their hormonal balance. Some of the signs that could indicate a hormonal imbalance include:
- Sudden changes in weight
- Muscle weakness
- Pain and swelling in the joints
- High sensitivity to changes in temperature
- Increased thirst and hunger
- Fatigue
- Nervousness, irritability, and anxiety
- Blurred vision
- Tenderness and stiffness of the joints
Women may benefit from genetic testing if they experience heavy or irregular periods, acne, hair loss, painful intercourse, headaches, or night sweats.
Similarly, men experiencing symptoms like gynecomastia, difficulty concentrating, reduced muscle and bone mass, or erectile dysfunction may seek treatment through genetic testing.
What Comes Next?
Genetic testing from reputable providers helps you understand your risk of hormonal imbalances. It also reveals how existing imbalances may be affecting your health.
You can thereafter consult a doctor to determine your treatment plan. In some cases, the doctor may advise additional testing. Remember to avoid starting any medication or supplement regime without consulting a doctor.
Final Note
Hormones play an essential role in regulating all the body’s major processes. An imbalance sometimes has visible symptoms, but sometimes, the symptoms become apparent only later. At-home genetic tests allow you to take charge of your health and track your hormone levels. These tests do not require a doctor’s prescription and are easy to take independently.
There’s no worry about having to prick yourself to collect a blood sample; all you need is a cheek swab. It’s painless, affordable, and gives you a genetic blueprint for a healthier future.