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Chicago, IL 60611
(773) 435-1150
Internal Medicine
Suite 501
Obstetrics/Gynecology
Suite 300
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| Bioidentical
Hormone Therapy |
Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
is the assessment of hormonal status and individualized plan of
action for hormone balancing, using compounded preparations
administered by physicians board certified in internal medicine and
extensively trained in anti-aging and regenerative medicine.
Hormone Balance – the Key to Health
Saliva and blood spot testing reliably identify hormone imbalances.
Hormones exist in harmony with each other – partners in a delicate
balancing act. When levels of each hormone are in the right
proportions, body systems are stable. When balance is lost, hormone
deficiencies and excesses can become toxic to the body causing
unwanted symptoms, disorders and disease.
Most hormones are produced by a group of glands known collectively
as the endocrine system. Even though these glands are located in
various parts of the body, they are considered one system because of
their similar functions and relationship to each other.
Hormones are extremely potent substances. It takes only a minute
amount to initiate an action. Hormones are secreted into the
bloodstream by the glands. From there, they travel to all parts of
the body. But, only the cells sensitive to that hormone—called the
target tissue--will respond to the chemical signal the hormone
carries. Traveling through the blood, hormones enter cells through
“receptor” sites, much as a key unlocks a door. Once inside, they
get to work, flipping the switches that govern growth, development,
and mental and physical functions throughout life.
All that changes when your hormones become unbalanced due to
physical and emotional stress or the effects of aging. Signals do
not reach the right place at the right time. Sometimes cell
functions shut down completely. In other cases, cells are over
stimulated. All this chaos causes unpleasant symptoms, at the very
least. In severe situations, these imbalances can lead to chronic
disorders or disease.
Most hormones cannot be stored in the cells of the body. Therefore,
they must be made and released into the blood at the precise time
they are needed. To maintain the intricate systems in which hormones
operate, the body must constantly fine-tune hormone release to keep
levels within proper limits. This balance is accomplished through an
intricate series of positive and negative feedback mechanisms. For
example, an overproduction of one hormone usually prompts the
release of one or more complementary hormones in an effort to
restore balance. Because of the complexity of these interactions, a
hormonal issue rarely stems from only one type of hormone. More
often, the problem involves a series of hormones. In addition, a
disruption in the balance of hormones produced by one gland or set
of glands can cause other gland systems to malfunction.
Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance
Hormones have a profound effect on your everyday health and
well-being. Although present in only tiny amounts, hormones act on
every cell of your body. Hormones have individual affects, but also
interact with each other to produce dramatic effects in the body.
Because of these interactions, they are able to trigger multiple
body systems. If you need help locating a healthcare practitioner
who can further assess hormone imbalances you may be experiencing,
go to ZRT's new Find A Provider locator.
Types of Hormone Imbalance
There are a number of common symptoms associated with hormone
imbalance(s):
Female hormone imbalance
The ovaries produce many hormones. Chief among them are estrogen,
progesterone, and testosterone. The ovarian hormones estrogen and
progesterone interact to coordinate a woman’s menstrual cycle during
her reproductive years. The brain produces the hormones follicle
stimulating hormones (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) which
trigger hormone production from the ovaries. When any of the
hormones coming from the brain or the ovaries are imbalanced,
symptoms may occur. Imbalances are most common in puberty and
menopause, but imbalances can happen at any age. Several conditions
are well known to be associated with hormonal imbalance including:
polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, breast disease,
and menstrual irregularities.
Symptoms of female hormone imbalance (in alphabetical order)
Acne or oily skin
Bloating
Bone loss
Decreased fertility
Depression
Excess facial and body hair
Hot flashes
Heavy or painful periods
Irregular periods
Irritability
Loss of muscle mass
Loss of scalp hair
Low libido
Memory lapses
Mood swings
Nervousness
Night sweats
Poor concentration
Sleep disturbances
Tender or fibrocystic breasts
Urinary incontinence
Vaginal dryness
Weight gain
Information obtained from www.zrtlab.com.
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