HORMONE TESTING
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 secreted into the bloodstream by these glands. From there, they travel to all parts of the body playing the role of chemical messengers turning specific target tissues on or off. Because they can’t be stored in the cells, hormones do their work as they pass through and then they’re gone. As a result, hormones must be made and released at the precise time they’re needed. To keep things functioning at their best, the body must constantly fine-tune hormone release to keep levels within proper limits.
Because of the complexity of these interactions, a hormonal imbalance rarely stems from only one type of hormone. More often, the problem involves a series of hormones that are out of balance. In addition, a disruption in the balance of hormones produced by one gland or set of glands can cause other glands or systems to dysfunction. Before you know it, you’re feeling miserable on multiple fronts.
Common Assessments for Hormone Imbalance
- Reproductive Hormone Balance
Saliva Testing offers the best assessment of sex hormone levels in the body’s tissues.
- Pre and Peri-Menopausal Panel
This panel tests 11 separate days to show the entire cycle pattern of estradiol, progesterone, DHEA and testosterone. This test determines intervention for menstrual problems.
- Post Menopausal Panel
This panel tests estrone, estradiol, estriol, progesterone, testosterone, and DHEA. This test is used to evaluate menopause symptoms and monitor treatment.
- For Men and Post Menopausal Women – Male Hormone Pane
This panel tests DHEA, testosterone, estrone, estradiol, progesterone, androstendione and dihydrotestosterone. Many men have low testosterone and do not realize it. Low T is not just about sexual dysfunction. Low T contributes to high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, increased risk of prostate cancer, muscle wasting and obesity. Replacement therapy can be very worthwhile in many aspects of health. For women with male pattern hair loss, this panel is helpful to elucidate the hormone imbalances.