What Is Hormone Testing and Why Is It Important?
A hormone test is used to assess and determine hormone levels in the body. Hormones are chemical messengers found in the body, and several of them exist. Like several chemical messengers, various tests are used to assess the different hormone levels in the blood.
Hormone-related tests can also be done.
Homeostasis is a state of balance within the internal environment of the body. Your hormone levels also tend to be balanced and controlled when in this state. When your body’s internal balance is altered, it deviates from balance, affecting hormone levels.
Hormonal imbalance has a variety of causes, and it can manifest through different symptoms. Through hormone tests, this imbalance can be assessed, diagnosed, and treated.
These chemical messengers can be classified into three major groups: lipid-derived hormones, peptide hormones, and amino-acid-derived hormones.
What Are Lipid-Derived Hormones?
These hormones are derived from High-density lipoproteins (HDL), also known as the “good cholesterol. Hormones derived from this “good cholesterol "include estradiol (Estrogen), testosterone (androgen), and sex hormones.
What Are Amino-Acid-Derived Hormones?
These hormones are mainly derived from 2 amino acids: Tyrosine and tryptophan. Most of the hormones in this category have their chemical names ending with “ine”. An exam"le "s adrenaline, which is quite popular and has a variety of functions, including metabolism, blood circulation, and more.
What Are Peptide Hormones?
These hormones are made of and inked by peptides (tiny bits of protein). Some examples include oxytocin and growth hormones. Oxytocin plays a role in parturition, breast milk production, and social bonding, while the growth hormone is responsible for growth.
Why Should You Get a Hormone Test?
Hormone tests are critical because they help identify hormonal imbalances and disorders. Several factors can contribute to hormonal imbalance, and some are
- Stress
- Diabetes
- Under or overweight
- Certain medications
- Infections and allergies
- Thyroid diseases
- Eating disorders
- Cancer or cancer treatment
When to Get a Hormone Test: Signs and Symptoms
Several symptoms are associated with hormonal imbalance because hormones significantly affect the body's health. In most cases, some symptoms could be specific to a particular hormone, including symptoms indicating a hormonal imbalance.
- Rapid weight gain or loss
- Abnormal heart rate
- Depression
- Infertility
- Insomnia
- Excessive sweating and increased thirst
- Dry skin
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Pain or tenderness of joints, muscles, etc.
- Fatigue
- Reduced sexual drive
Common Hormonal Imbalances and Their Symptoms
| Hormone Imbalance | Common Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Thyroid (Hypo/Hyper) | Weight changes, fatigue, heart rate issues |
| Estrogen/Testosterone | Low libido, mood swings, infertility |
| Cortisol (Stress hormone) | Anxiety, poor sleep, weight gain |
| Insulin (Diabetes) | Fatigue, thirst, frequent urination |
| Growth Hormone | Poor growth, muscle loss, joint pain |
What to Expect During a Hormone Test Procedure
Hormone tests use different samples depending on the hormone to be assessed. These samples could be hair follicles, blood, urine, or other body fluids. Some additional tests or exams, such as pelvic exams, X-rays, ultrasounds, MRI, or more, can be carried out depending on the symptoms you manifest and the type of hormonal test being performed.
Although it is possible to assess home testing kits for hormonal levels, these test kits cannot provide sufficient information to make a diagnosis. You should visit a medical professional or your GP for assessment and tests if you notice any symptoms that could indicate a hormonal imbalance or disorder.
You can also make it easier if you record the symptoms you experience and their frequency.
Hormone Testing Support with Mobi Doctor
With Mobi Doctor, you can access online urgent care. Get an instant diagnosis, explore conditions and treatments, and text a healthcare professional if needed.
Mobi Doctor is a virtual clinic that provides online consultations and 24/7 support for people with health problems. You can talk to our experts about any health problem, whether an infection, an injury, or a mental health issue. We offer tailored advice and support from our team of doctors and experts.
