Your hormones could be wreaking havoc: Lookout for these five signs to know

The human body is largely controlled by endocrine secretions that play an integral part in running the body. The vital physiological functions in the body are regulated and controlled by hormones that are secreted by our glands and released into the bloodstream. Glands such as pituitary, hypothalamus, thalamus, thyroid and pancreas secrete hormones that play a key role in our wellbeing. A disturbance or imbalance in hormonal secretions can however lead to a lot of damage to the body and the mind.

Physiological functions are disturbed by hormonal imbalances but emotional and mental wellbeing is equally affected by any disturbances in the secretions of our glands. In women, the time around the menstrual cycle can be taxing but other factors such as stress, anxiety and diseases can also throw your hormones off the track. Here are five signs that you should look out for in case you have doubts regarding your hormonal health.

The skin is one of the very first places where changes can be observed. A pimple or two can be the result of a poor diet or at times lack of hygiene but breakouts, especially near the chin region are highly indicative of surge in testosterone levels. Frequent breakouts can be taxing and consulting a physician is the best way to deal with them.

Waking up in the middle of the night feeling excessively heated is not normal, especially if your bed isn’t overly heated by external devices or due to other factors. Night sweats are a result of low estrogen levels which is indicative of perimenopause. Perimenopause refers to an early menopause that can occur nearly ten years before the expected time range of a menopause. Consult your ob-gyn in case you notice unusual amounts of sweating in bed.

Fatigue can be the result of multiple conditions. A week of late night studies or partying, a family affair or a taxing week at work, but constant, unending fatigue can make you feel worn out. If fatigue is chronic, look out for symptoms like appetite changes, weight gain or changes in bowel movement. This could well be a sign of hormonal imbalance.

An excessive hair growth or changes in the color of your chest hair are changes that you need to look out for. Appearance of dark hair on the back or on the chest are indicative of excessive testosterone.

Irregular periods can be the result of several conditions. The most common reasons for irregular periods are stress, low estrogen levels or PCOS. Poly cystic ovarian syndrome is mainly characterized by an absence of periods, excessive hair growth and difficulty with losing weight. PCOS can be treated by exercising, consuming prescribed birth control pills and a healthy diet.