What is hormone decline?
As we age, our bodies experience a natural decline in hormone levels. This is a normal part of the aging process, but can lead to unpleasant symptoms. The key hormones that tend to decline are:
- Testosterone in men - Testosterone is responsible for sex drive, muscle mass, bone density, and energy levels in men. Declining testosterone can cause low libido, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle, weight gain, fatigue, and mood changes.
- Estrogen in women - Estrogen regulates a woman's menstrual cycle and reproductive system. Low estrogen after menopause leads to hot flashes, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, and bone loss.
- Thyroid hormones - Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) causes fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and feeling cold.
- Growth hormone - Growth hormone promotes growth in childhood, but declines with age. This leads to loss of muscle mass and bone density, increased body fat, and thinner skin.
- DHEA - DHEA is a precursor to sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone. Declining DHEA can exacerbate menopausal and andropausal symptoms.
Why does hormone decline happen?
Hormone decline is a natural result of aging. Our glands produce less hormones as we get older. For example, a woman's ovaries produce less estrogen as she approaches menopause. A man's testes produce less testosterone as he ages. The thyroid gland slows down. Lower hormone levels are detected by blood tests.
When does hormone decline start?
- For women, perimenopause starts in the 40s, leading to menopause around age 50. Estrogen levels start to fluctuate and decline.
- For men, testosterone decline can start as early as age 30, with about 1% drop per year. Significant symptoms occur in some men by age 50.
- Thyroid issues and declining DHEA also often start in the 40s and 50s.
What are the symptoms of hormone decline?
Symptoms vary by individual, but may include:
- Low libido, erectile dysfunction
- Hot flashes, night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood changes, irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Fatigue, lack of energy
- Weight gain, increased body fat
- Loss of muscle mass and tone
- Thinning hair
- Dry skin, wrinkles
What are the risks of hormone decline?
If left untreated, hormone decline can lead to:
- Osteoporosis - lack of estrogen and testosterone increases bone loss
- Heart disease - hormones help regulate cholesterol levels
- Diabetes - hormonal changes can disrupt blood sugar
- Loss of muscle and strength - impacts mobility and vitality
- Cognitive issues - estrogens may protect brain function
- Decreased quality of life - relationships, work, mental health affected
Can hormone decline be treated?
Yes, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help relieve symptoms of hormone decline. Options include:
- Estrogen / progesterone pills, patches, gels, rings, implants for women
- Testosterone injections, gels, patches for men
- Thyroid medication for hypothyroidism
- DHEA supplements
Speak to your doctor about whether HRT is right for you. Human Antiaging Center(bioidentical-hormone-doctor.com) specializes in customized bioidentical hormone therapy to restore optimal hormone levels. Contact us today for a consultation!