Malfunctions of the endocrine system. How to check the thyroid gland and what tests need to be taken to diagnose the organ. Regulation of endocrine glands

The endocrine system, or system internal secretion, make up endocrine organs or glands. These are glandular formations rich in blood vessels that do not have excretory ducts and releasing directly into the blood their specific products called hormones (Greek hormao - I excite). The generally recognized endocrine glands are the following eight glands: 1) thyroid gland (glandula thyreoidea) - located on the front surface of the neck, its average weight is from 20 to 30 g; 2) about or parathyroid glands(gl. parathyreoideae) - several, usually 4 small glands located at the posterior surface thyroid gland, total weight about 0.12-0.25 g; 3) goiter, or thymus gland (gl. thymus) - located in the upper part chest cavity, reaches its greatest development by the age of 12 (about 35-40 g) and then gradually atrophies; 4) pituitary gland, cerebral appendage or pituitary gland (gl. pituitaria s- hypophysis cerebri) - small (weighing from 0.5 to 0.65 g), but complex formation, consisting of glandular (anterior lobe) and nerve tissue(posterior lobe), in direct connection with the brain and located at its base in the sella turcica; 5) pineal (pineal) gland, or cerebral epiphysis (gl. pinealis s. epiphysis cerebri) - a very small (weighing 0.1-0.2 g) glandular-nervous formation, located in the area of ​​the quadrigeminal gland and the third cerebral stomach; 6) adrenal glands or adrenal glands (gl. suprarenales) -paired organ with an average weight of 6-7 g, located above the upper pole of the kidneys, it essentially consists of two different glands: one of them is of mesodermal origin and makes up the adrenal cortex (substantia corticalis), and the other is ectodermal, from the rudiments of the sympathetic nervous system system, and forms its brain substance (substantia medullars); 7) pancreas (pancreas), its islet apparatus itself (insulae Langerhansii); 8) sex glands (gl. sexuales); in men - testes (testes), in women ovaries (ovaria), and in both organs the actual endocrine tissue is the so-called interstitial tissue or gland.

The general function of the endocrine system is reduced to the implementation of chemical regulation in the body, to establishing connections between distant organs and maintaining their specific functions at a certain level. This goal is achieved through hormones, the chemical nature of which has not yet been fully studied, although some of them (thyroxine, adrenaline, certain sex hormones) have already been obtained synthetically. The action of hormones is characterized by the fact that they influence minimum quantities, do not have species specificity, and the fact that the final effect of their action depends not only on their specific properties, but also on the state of the cells and tissues on which they act, and on physical and chemical properties the environment in which they operate. Internal secretion has the most significant influence on all basic life processes and, above all, on the development and growth of the body, on metabolism and on the excitability and tone of the nervous system.

The sex glands, pituitary gland and thyroid gland have the greatest influence on the growth and differentiation of the body; Of the other endocrine glands, the thymus gland, adrenal glands (their cortical substance) and the pineal gland undoubtedly influence growth. Metabolism is influenced in one or another part and to one degree or another by all endocrine glands, but mainly by the thyroid gland, pancreas, gonads, pituitary gland and parathyroid glands. The third main function of the endocrine system - regulation of neuropsychic excitability - is carried out primarily through the hormones of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands and parathyroid glands, as well as the pituitary gland and gonads. For individual glands, their main functions and their main deviations are presented in the following form.

Thyroid(its hormone is thyroxine), when its function increases (hyperthyroidism), it enhances growth, increases metabolism and excitability of the nervous system, and when its function decreases (hypothyroidism), it has the opposite effect.

Parathyroid glands when reduced, their functions cause a change calcium metabolism(hypocalcemia) and increased neuromuscular excitability (tetany), with hyperfunction of these glands, hypercalcemia and increased excretion of calcium in urine and feces are observed.

The thymus gland regulates the overall trophism of the body (its weight), its carbohydrate and mineral (fixation of calcium in the bones) metabolism, being a synergist for insulin and the adrenal cortex and an antagonist for the thyroid and parathyroid glands; stimulates puberty.

The pituitary gland is a complex intrasecretory organ that secretes a number of hormones (sex hormones, hormones that affect growth, metabolism, blood pressure, diuresis, etc.). Hyperfunction of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland entails increased growth either of the entire body - gigantism, or (at the end of the growth period) of the distal parts of the body - acromegaly is a complex intrasecretory organ that secretes a number of hormones (sex hormones, hormones affecting growth, metabolism, blood pressure, diuresis, etc.). Hyperfunction of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland entails increased growth either of the entire body - gigantism, or (at the end of the growth period) of the distal parts of the body - acromegaly; its hypofunction causes growth retardation (dwarfism) and sexual development, metabolic disorders; hypofunction of the posterior lobe is associated with a disorder of water metabolism - diabetes insipidus.

The pineal gland inhibits the functions of the endocrine glands that determine puberty, i.e., the reproductive glands, the thyroid gland, the pituitary gland, the adrenal cortex and the goiter; therefore, an increase in its activity leads to a delay, and a decrease leads to an acceleration of puberty.

Adrenal medulla(hormone - adrenaline) increases the excitability of the sympathetic nervous system, constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure; with hyperfunction - arterial hypertension, with hypofunction - symptoms of so-called Addisonism.

Adrenal cortex(hormone - pictures) increases the excitability of the parasympathetic nervous system and lowers arterial blood pressure; has a stimulating effect on physical development, development of genital organs and secondary sexual characteristics.

Pancreas, on the one hand, regulates carbohydrate metabolism(hormone - insulin), and on the other hand, lowers and regulates blood pressure (hormone - kallikrein); An increase in metabolic function leads to obesity, a decrease leads to diabetes mellitus.

The gonads specifically influence sexual development, determining gender, in a stimulating way - on metabolism, increasing it, and in a tonic way - on nervous system, exciting her.

Individual endocrine glands, with all their complexity, are only parts of a single whole, parts of a complex endocrine system. Their connection with each other within this system is revealed, on the one hand, in their final effect on the working organ in the sense of their influence in one direction - synergism, or in opposite directions - antagonism; on the other hand, in the direct influence of one gland on another in the sense of mutual excitation or inhibition. Special meaning Among other endocrine glands, it belongs to the pituitary gland. In addition to the large number and variety of hormones it produces, in addition to its close anatomical and functional connection with the brain and, in particular, with the higher vegetative centers, it also stands out due to the fact that it, as is now becoming more and more clear, produces a number special hormones that stimulate the function of other endocrine glands.

Symptoms of diseases of the endocrine system
Signs of endocrine disorders are very numerous, can be pronounced and affect all or almost all areas and functions of the human body.

The age, gender and constitutional type of an individual are under the control of his endocrine system; it also significantly affects the metabolic functions of the autonomic and central nervous systems, and through them all other vital functions.

Age signs. Natural course age-related changes in the body can be sharply disrupted under the influence of disorders of internal secretion from one or more endocrine glands. So, puberty can occur much earlier normal deadline- premature puberty (pubertas praecox), starting, for example, from 2-3 years of age. This phenomenon is observed most often with tumors of the gonads or adrenal cortex. After the tumor is removed, all phenomena develop back. There are also cases of premature aging (senilitas praecox), when all the signs of old age develop already at a young and even adolescent age. The basis of this phenomenon is, in all likelihood, multiple insufficiency of the endocrine glands, mainly the thyroid, anterior pituitary gland and adrenal cortex. Lag in general development organism, characterized by delayed growth, puberty and mental development, which do not correspond to the average degree of development for a given age, is called sexual infantilism (lat. infantilis - childish). The latter may have different pathogenesis. Of the endocrine forms of infantilism, the most famous are thyroid and genital - due to insufficient function of the corresponding glands, and pluriglandular, associated with dysfunction of many glands.

Sexual characteristics. In the sexual differentiation of the body and the development of secondary sexual characteristics, the leading role belongs to the gonads. A decrease or loss of their function entails the development of a special - eunuchoid - type of body structure, which is characterized by increased growth in length of the upper and lower limbs; in men - feminine character pelvis, lack of body hair, deposition of subcutaneous fat according to the female type and underdevelopment of the genital organs (eunuchoidism - from eunuchus - castrato).

Here we can also mention virilism (vir - man), i.e. the replacement of some female sexual characteristics with male ones in women: hairiness appears male type, deepening of voice, male forms bodies. IN mild degree this symptom is often observed in menopause; in more pronounced cases (growth of a mustache, beard, abundant hair growth on the body, etc.), the cause is usually a tumor of the gonads or adrenal cortex. The opposite phenomenon is feminism (femina - woman), i.e. the presence in a man of a number of feminine traits, as a manifestation of insufficient sexual differentiation, is caused by pluriglandular intrasecretory disorder.

Constitutional features. The endocrine glands have a very great influence on the development of growth and differentiation of the body, on the level and course of metabolic processes, on the excitability and tone of the nervous system. This influence is especially clear in cases of endocrine diseases. Therefore, it is natural that the individual characteristics of the functioning of individual parts of the endocrine system, even in physiological conditions play, along with influence external environment, a major role in the formation of the body in general and its constitutional and individual characteristics in particular. Already the normal constitutional appearance of each person bears traces of the influence of the main endocrine glands, and from these traces one can to a certain extent imagine their relationship, i.e. the so-called endocrine formula. If the normosthenic type is an example of more or less stable balance and harmony in general, then it appears the same from the point of view of the endocrine formula. The hypersthenic and asthenic types, characterized by opposite features, also give endocrine formulas of the opposite direction. In fact, if we compare the characteristic morphological and functional features of the hypedsthenic and asthenic types of a person with the usual effect of certain hormonal effects on the body, then it is not difficult to see that the general endocrine formula of these two constitutional types in relation to the 4 most important endocrine glands (thyroid, pituitary gland, adrenal glands) and gonads) is as follows. In persons of the hypersthenic type, the thyroid gland and cerebral appendage are, compared to the average norm, in a state of some, but not yet completely physiological, decrease in function, and the adrenal glands and gonads are in a state of the same increase in function. On the contrary, asthenics, as a rule, have relatively increased function of the thyroid gland and pituitary gland and reduced function adrenal glands and gonads. The most constant and characteristic member of this formula is the thyroid gland; The second place is occupied by the pituitary gland. The role of the adrenal glands and gonads is less constant and less pronounced. But in individual cases, each of these glands can, due to certain conditions, acquire a predominant influence and thereby leave its more or less characteristic imprint on the entire organism.

This “endocrine formula” of two extreme constitutional types is, of course, a very rough diagram of the very complex relationship between the constitution of the body and its internal secretion. This formula emphasizes only the well-known influence of the endocrine system on the structure and functions of the body, outlines some correlation in this sense and provides a kind of outline for further more detailed observations in this direction.

Signs associated with growth. Human growth is undoubtedly under strong influence endocrine glands. The latter largely determines both individual fluctuations within the physiological norm (139-195 cm) and pathological deviations beyond its limits. The growth processes are mainly influenced by the cerebral appendage and the thyroid gland, while the gonads and thymus glands have a retarding effect. In pathological cases, gigantic height (more than 195 cm) depends either on hyperfunction of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland (acromegalic gigantism), or on loss of function of the gonads and a secondary increase in the function of the pituitary gland (eunuchoid gigantism). Dwarf stature (less than 135 cm) can have a varied pathogenesis and is divided into two large groups: proportional and disproportionate dwarf stature. Of the endocrine-related forms of dwarf growth, the most clearly defined are the pituitary form (preservation of childish body proportions, underdevelopment of the reproductive apparatus, absence of secondary sexual characteristics and a psyche corresponding to age) and the thyroidogenic form (the same general picture, but in the presence of myxedema and severe retardation). mental development, to the point of complete idiocy). Both of them are associated with loss of the corresponding intrasecretory function.

Signs associated with metabolic disorders. A number of signs of impaired metabolism originate in disorders of internal secretion and therefore should prompt the doctor to carefully examine the state of the endocrine apparatus. Thus, obesity may depend on hypofunction of the thyroid gland, pituitary gland (anterior lobe) or gonads and, to a certain extent, on hyperfunction of the pancreas and adrenal glands. Weight loss, on the contrary, may be due to hyperfunction of the thyroid gland or loss of function of the pituitary gland [Simmonds disease] and the insular apparatus (diabetes).

Hyperglycemia and glycosuria should suggest hypofunction of the pancreas or hyperfunction of the thyroid gland, pituitary gland and adrenal medulla. Hypercalcemia may indicate hyperfunction of the parathyroid glands; hypocalcemia - on their hypofunction. Polyuria may be a symptom of hypofunction of the posterior pituitary gland. Skin hyperpigmentation is one of the characteristic signs of adrenal hypofunction.

Autonomic nervous symptoms. There are very close relationships between the endocrine and autonomic nervous systems, and all endocrine glands can be schematically divided into two groups: the group of sympathicotropic glands and the group of parasympathicotropic glands. The first includes the thyroid gland, the adrenal medulla, and the pituitary gland - they excite the sympathetic nervous system, causing symptoms of sympathicotonia; The second group includes the thymus gland, pancreas, adrenal cortex, gonads: they tone the parasympathetic nervous system, contributing to the development of vagotonic symptoms.

Methods for diagnosing diseases of the endocrine system
Questioning. When questioning an endocrine patient, in addition to achieving the usual goals, i.e., identifying his complaints and their underlying functional disorders and obtaining all kinds of anamnestic data,” it is necessary to pay special attention to the patient’s state of mind, his emotionality and other manifestations of temperament, on the one hand, and to hereditary and family history, on the other.

The first is necessary because internal secretion is directly related to temperament and psyche, and its disturbances can have an equal impact on them. So, for example, with hyperthyroidism, one can easily note the excited state, anxiety and haste of patients, which is reflected in the very nature of the lively, rapid and stumbling speech of the Bazedovians. Patients with hypothyroidism (myxedema) present the complete opposite; apathy, undisturbed calm, lethargy and slowness, which is clearly manifested in the monotonous and drawling speech of myxedematics, whose voice is often hoarse.

Backwardness mental development and its degree in case of infantilism, cretinism, etc. is also easily determined by questioning.

Hereditary and family history of endocrine diseases is important because hereditary factor in their pathogenesis it is sometimes important.

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Malfunctions of the endocrine system are no less dangerous than, for example, disruption of the cardiovascular or digestive system, because they can lead to such serious consequences as the development diabetes mellitus, visual impairment... A general practitioner tells readers of the site how to identify the first signs hormonal disorders.

All diseases have different roles. One disease comes at once, with all its might, posing a daring challenge to the body: who will win?!

The other creeps up unnoticed and systematically torments: it either “bites” or lets go, gradually making our existence unbearable.

And the third walks with us hand in hand all our lives, influencing our character, worldview and quality of life along with genes and external factors.

Hiding under different masks, diseases often become elusive. It is especially difficult to recognize an endocrine disease (when the body's normal production of hormones is disrupted).

Often, people with such disorders, before getting to the “right address”, are examined by a variety of specialists, and, being disappointed with traditional medicine, self-medicate in vain.

Such patients come to the endocrinologist only when the disease has reached its apogee or has changed its face so much as a result of numerous health experiments that it is extremely difficult to diagnose and treat it.

Hormonal balance

Hormonal disorders do not always have specific symptoms. Often their manifestations are similar to a variety of ailments, and sometimes are perceived only as cosmetic defects.

Therefore, you need to know the warning signs, and if they appear, you should immediately seek qualified help.

It’s better to exclude it in a timely manner dangerous pathology than to pay with your health for your self-confidence and negligence.

What is the endocrine system?

In the body, there are many organs and individual cell clusters that are capable of producing hormones and participating in the endocrine regulation of vital functions.

The pituitary gland and hypothalamus are considered the most important. These glands are located in the brain and, according to their position, control all other organs of the endocrine system: thyroid and parathyroid glands, adrenal glands, gonads and pancreas.

Lesions of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland rarely manifest as isolated, specific symptoms. Usually the function of the endocrine glands under their control also suffers.

What to do?

Possible signs hormonal imbalance

Hormonal balance

1. Losing weight due to increased appetite. Under the advertising slogan “If I eat, I lose weight!”, perhaps there is a person with an overactive thyroid gland.

In addition to weight loss, it is usually a concern causeless and long-term increase body temperature up to 37-37.5 °C, interruptions in heart function, excessive sweating, tremor (shaking) of the fingers, sharp changes mood, nervousness, sleep disturbance.

As the disease progresses, sexual function is impaired.

Often what attracts attention is a constantly surprised look - goggle-eyed eyes. When the eyes are wide open, they shine and seem to bulge out: between the iris and eyelids, a strip of white sclera remains above and below.

2. Obesity can be not only a problem of poor nutrition and physical inactivity. Obesity accompanies many endocrinological disorders.

If adipose tissue is deposited evenly throughout the body, appetite is either unchanged or slightly reduced, and it’s worrying dry skin, weakness, lethargy, constant drowsiness, hair loss and brittleness, then we can assume a decrease in thyroid function.

Such people have chilliness, decreased body temperature and blood pressure, hoarseness, periodic constipation.

Hormonal balance

5. Changes in appearance are an early sign of acromegaly. Facial features become rough: enlarged brow ridges, cheekbones, lower jaw.

The lips “grow”, the tongue becomes so large that the bite is disrupted.

This condition develops in adults when overeducation growth hormone - somatotropin, which is produced in the hypothalamus.

Happening rapid growth of hands and feet. A person is forced to change shoes very often.

Complaints about numbness in the limbs, joint pain, hoarseness, impaired sexual function. The skin becomes thick, oily, and increased hair growth is noted.

6. Visual impairment may also be a consequence of pathology of the endocrine system. Rapid and persistent deterioration of vision, accompanied by persistent headaches, is a reason to suspect a pituitary tumor.

In this case, a characteristic symptom is loss of the temporal fields of vision; other signs of hormonal regulation disorders mentioned above often develop.

7. Itchy skin should be a reason to check your blood sugar levels and may be an early sign diabetes mellitus

In this case, itching more often occurs in the perineum (which forces you to consult a gynecologist or dermatovenerologist).

Appears thirst, dry mouth, the amount of urine increases and urination becomes more frequent.

Furunculosis becomes a common disease, wounds and scratches heal very slowly, weakness and fatigue gradually develop.

Weight can fluctuate both in the direction of obesity and in the direction of weight loss, depending on the form of the disease and the constitution of the person.

Without special therapy, endocrine diseases gradually progress and, without causing much concern, initial stages, manifest themselves with heavy echoes in the future.

For sweating, changes in body weight, excess hair growth, you can for a long time turn a blind eye, but what to do when these disorders develop into infertility or turn into severe heart failure, stroke or heart attack, or an inoperable tumor?

And how many cases of diabetes are diagnosed only when a patient is admitted to hospital in a coma?!

But just a little vigilance, attention to own health to prevent all these consequences.

Modern diagnosis of hormonal disorders includes wide range examinations. Sometimes it is enough for a doctor to look at a patient to make a diagnosis.

In some cases, it is necessary to carry out a lot of laboratory and instrumental studies, including determination of the level of hormones and their metabolites in the blood, functional stress tests, X-ray and ultrasound diagnostics, computed tomography.

Many of the endocrine diseases timely application amenable complete cure, in others, constant replacement is necessary hormone therapy, in the third case, indications for surgical treatment arise.

Be more attentive to the health of yourself and your loved ones. In most cases, when early diagnosis and with the right treatment, many endocrine diseases can be controlled or completely cured.

Be healthy!

Natalya DOLGOPOLOVA,
general practitioner

Hormones largely determine the functioning of the female reproductive system. They are in such a close relationship that a deficiency or excess of one of them leads to the incorrect production of other hormones.

As a result, irregularities in the menstrual cycle begin, which are difficult to correct. The process of restoring the endocrine system takes a long time, and in some cases it is completely impossible.

There may be two reasons for this: misuse hormonal drugs or congenital dysfunctions of the organs responsible for the production of hormones.

If in the first case it is possible full recovery endocrine system, then in the second only treatment regimens that will temporarily correct the incorrect production of hormones can help.

The female endocrine system - how it works

Failure of the hormonal system can begin at any age, but most often it affects either teenage girls or women during menopause, when the endocrine system undergoes dramatic changes.

Hormones in the female body are produced by certain glands, which in medical science are called the glandular apparatus.

Some of these glands are directly related to the functioning of the organs of the female reproductive system:

The pituitary gland is a cerebral appendage located on the lower surface of the brain. Responsible for the production of prolactin, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and oxytocin.

Thyroid– located in the neck area, above the larynx. Responsible for the production of thyroxine, which affects the growth of the endometrium in the uterus.

The adrenal glands are paired glands that are located above the kidneys. Responsible for the production of progesterone, a number of androgens and a small amount of estrogens.

The ovaries are paired glands located in the pelvic cavity. Responsible for the production of estrogens, weak androgens and progesterone.

If in older women, disruption of the functions of the endocrine system occurs due to the consumption of the supply of eggs and the fading of the ability to bear children, then hormonal disruption in girls, on the contrary, indicates the maturation of the body and its preparation to perform reproductive functions.

Hormones that affect the female reproductive system

Estrogens – common name three hormones: estriol, estradiol and estrone. Produced by the ovaries and partly by the adrenal glands. They are first phase hormones menstrual cycle.

Prolactin – affects the formation of milk in the mammary glands. Helps reduce estrogen levels and inhibit ovulation during breastfeeding.

Follicle stimulating hormone – produced by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. Accelerates the growth of follicles in the ovaries in the first phase of the menstrual cycle. Affects the production of estrogen.

Luteinizing hormone – produced by the pituitary gland, stimulates the production of estrogen, provokes rupture of the capsule of the dominant follicle and the release of a mature egg from it. It is closely related to the production of follicle-stimulating hormone.

Testosterone - male sex hormone. In women, it is produced in small quantities by the adrenal cortex and ovaries. Promotes breast enlargement during pregnancy.

Progesterone – a hormone of the corpus luteum, which is formed after the rupture of the capsule of the dominant follicle during ovulation. In addition, it is produced in large quantities by the ovaries and placenta if a woman is pregnant.

These are the main hormones that have a greater influence on the menstrual cycle than all others, which are also produced by the endocrine glands.

7 reasons for hormonal imbalance

Improper hormone production can be either congenital or acquired during life. Treatment for this problem will depend on what caused the endocrine system failure:

1) Taking oral contraceptives. Despite the fact that some gynecologists are confident that oral contraceptives normalize a woman’s hormonal levels, this is not always the case. After stopping the pills, in some patients the endocrine system cannot improve its functions.

2) Taking medications for emergency contraception. Leads to a strong surge in hormones, after which the menstrual cycle may not return to normal for a long time.

3) Unauthorized use of other hormonal drugs. Drugs that regulate the functioning of the endocrine system should be prescribed by a doctor of the appropriate profile. Even if the test results show a deviation from the norm of any hormone, it is not advisable to independently select medications for correction. Only an endocrinologist can prescribe an adequate treatment regimen.

4) Dysfunction of the endocrine glands. It can occur both as a result of their diseases and as a result of abnormalities in their development.

5) Age physiological changes. This refers to puberty and menopause - two periods in a woman’s life during which the most dramatic restructuring of the endocrine system is observed.

6) Artificial termination of pregnancy. A sudden cessation of hCG production leads to a disruption in the production of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Both medicinal and surgical abortion equally negatively affect the functioning of the endocrine system.

7) Long-lasting stressful conditions. They influence the suppression of the production of the hormone oxytocin. A decrease in oxytocin levels affects the production of prolactin.

Hormonal imbalance can also be caused by pregnancy, but in this case the body is programmed natural ways to normalize the functioning of the endocrine glands, which are activated after childbirth.

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in women

Hormonal imbalances never go away without consequences. Depending on which endocrine gland is not functioning properly, a woman experiences certain symptoms of hormonal imbalance.

In medicine, a symptom is a set of manifestations of a disease that the patient himself notices. In this case, the symptoms will be the following:

1. Irregularity in the duration of the menstrual cycle;
2. Excessive body hair growth;
3. The release of milk from the mammary glands in the absence of breastfeeding;
4. Frequent mood swings;
5. Increase in body weight with relatively moderate food intake;
6. Hair loss;
7. Decreased libido.

The listed symptoms should alert you and become a reason to visit an endocrinologist.

Signs of endocrine system dysfunction

In medicine, a sign means a set of manifestations of a disease that a doctor observes. He draws up a clinical picture of the disease, relying not only on medical research data, but also on the complaints of the patient herself.

The following are signs of hormonal imbalance in a woman:

• Shortening or lengthening the first or second phase of the cycle;
• Lack of ovulation;
• Ovarian cysts;
• Corpus luteum cysts;
• Thin or too thick endometrium;
• Presence of fibroids;
• Disruption of the maturation process of follicles (regression of the dominant follicle, follicular cyst);
• A large number of antral follicles in one ovary, not exceeding 8-9 mm in diameter (MFN);
• A large number of follicles in one ovary, which exceed the size of 9 mm in diameter, but are still smaller than dominant follicle(PCOS).

Hormonal imbalance during pregnancy

The body undergoes changes after conceiving a child. From the day a fertilized egg is implanted into one of the walls of the uterus, the production of the hormone hCG begins. An increase in its concentration in the blood provokes a change in the amount of production of other hormones.

Endocrine system forced to adapt to the changes that have occurred in the body, however, hormonal imbalance during pregnancy is a natural process necessary for successful pregnancy child.

But there are violations that can lead to the threat of miscarriage:

1. Lack of progesterone.
2. Excess testosterone.
3. Lack of estrogen.

These are the three main hormonal disorders that pregnant women encounter most often. To correct them, the gynecologist will prescribe drug therapy.

Consequences of improper functioning of the endocrine system

Hormonal imbalance is a factor that negatively affects a woman’s health. It's about not only about violation reproductive functions, but also about general deterioration health status.

A deficiency or excess of certain hormones, in the absence of timely treatment, can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Infertility;
• Miscarriage;
• Obesity;
• The occurrence of cancer;
• Decreased immunity;
• High fatigue;
• Formation of benign tumors;
• Diabetes;
• Osteoporosis;
• Decreased sexual activity.

If the cause of hormonal imbalance lies in the improper functioning of the endocrine glands, which has been observed since birth, then constant monitoring by an endocrinologist and systematic correction of the production of one or another hormone are required.

The treatment regimen will depend on which hormone deviates from normal values. Sometimes there are problems with the production of any one hormone, but more often than not, a blood test indicates problems with several hormones at once.

Each doctor has his own views on treatment methods, but gynecologist-endocrinologists can be divided into two categories: the first prefer to prescribe oral contraceptives as therapy, and the second prefer to regulate each hormone with separate drugs.

Correction of hormonal imbalance using oral contraceptives

To normalize the production of hormones, drugs such as Yarina, Diane 35, Jess, Lindinet can be prescribed. On the one hand, this is convenient for the doctor: there is no need to select a special treatment regimen - in tablets, all synthetic analogs of hormones are pre-distributed by day of the cycle.

On the other hand, such a correction is fraught with negative consequences:

• Intolerance to oral contraceptives, resulting in daily severe nausea and vomiting.
• Unplanned pregnancy after stopping a course of pills. And, thanks to the rebound effect, it may turn out that a woman is carrying twins or triplets.
• Increased signs of hormonal imbalance after discontinuation of oral contraceptives

Correction of hormonal imbalance using an individual selection of hormonal drugs

It is more difficult to create such a treatment regimen. There is a need to use several at once hormonal drugs, therefore, the gynecologist-endocrinologist must select medications in such a way as not to provoke a disruption in the production of other hormones that are normal.

• Excess testosterone – Dexamethasone, Cyproterone, Metypred are used for treatment.
• Lack of Progesterone - Duphaston and Utrozhestan are used to normalize indicators.
• Lack of estrogen is corrected with the help of Divigel, Premarin, Proginova.
• Excess estrogen - treated with Clomiphene, Tamoxifen.

These are just a few examples of solving problems with the production of certain hormones. In fact, there may be much more of them, and a specific treatment regimen should be drawn up by an endocrinologist. Herbal mixtures are also used to correct hormonal levels, but they also need to be taken only on doctor's recommendation.

As preventive measures You can be advised not to take hormonal drugs without permission, without a doctor’s prescription and supervision. Once a year you need to donate blood to analyze the main female hormones and if one or more of them deviate from the norm, contact an endocrinologist or gynecologist.

- These are helper organisms. A balanced hormonal background is an invariable part for the full functioning of the body. Therefore, it is important to know how to check hormones in women and men.

Not only the general condition of a person depends on this:

• appearance;
• healthy sleep;
• psychological state of the body;
• the work of the endocrine glands.

Causes of hormonal imbalance

Disturbances in hormone levels in the body can occur for a number of reasons. The most vulnerable is the reproductive function. Thanks to female sex hormones, the body can fulfill its purpose - procreation.

There are several causes of hormonal imbalance:

• various gynecological diseases. This could be a polyp, tumor (benign or malignant), uterine fibroids, cyst, menopause and other diseases;
• diseases of the endocrine system;
• changes and disturbances in the functioning of the thyroid gland;
• pregnancy;
• abortions.

Depending on the cause affecting the imbalance of hormones in the body, the specialist will refer the woman for testing. After research and diagnosis of the problem in the body, appropriate treatment is prescribed.

Indications for taking a hormone test

The specialist must monitor changes in hormonal levels in women. The slightest fluctuations may indicate that there is a serious problem in the body. As a rule, a test is prescribed so that the doctor can make sure whether the body has ethologies of the endocrine system or gynecological diseases.

Signs indicating a hormonal imbalance:

• irregular menstrual cycle, without corresponding etiology;
• infertility of various stages and degrees;
• before planning pregnancy;
• with decreased sexual desire;
• with sexual infantilism;
• mastopathy;

• pressure surges;
• skin problems: acne;
• establishment of pregnancy;
• severe premenstrual syndrome;
• excessive body hair and others.

Testing for hormones

A blood test is a study that helps clarify the presence and content according to the norm. It is mainly prescribed for the following symptoms:

• menstruation disorders;
• infertility;
• miscarriage;
• menopause

Hormones are biological substances, which enter the blood vessels after secretion by the endocrine glands. They influence the entire body and guide our actions.

The results of the study are assessed exclusively by the doctor. Since hormonal levels will fluctuate depending on the period of menstruation, the condition of the woman, and age. That is why, in a group of different ages, the test norm will differ in value.

How to do a hormone test correctly?

For analysis, a woman needs to donate blood. Hormones are very sensitive biologically active substances, any external changes environments may give inaccurate results. That is why it is imperative to know how to take the test correctly and accurately.

The doctor must give his recommendation on which specific day of menstruation the test should be taken. Is it possible to eat before taking the test or not? In addition, the level of body hormones depends on physical activity, depression and stress, poor nutrition. Under no circumstances should you get tested if you have symptoms of the disease.

Rules for taking a hormone test

A prerequisite is delivery on an empty stomach. Food affects some hormones. As a result, their number in the body may increase or decrease. Result: unreliable diagnosis.

Before donating blood, you must exclude:

• sexual intercourse;
• alcohol;
• smoking.

Physical activity should be reduced to a minimum.

You cannot take medications. It is necessary to check with your doctor for a list of prohibited drugs.

The ideal time to take the test is approximately 2 hours after you wake up.

Female hormones

Hormones are released. After being absorbed into the blood, they begin to regulate metabolism in the body. useful substances. And only then, hormones are destroyed under the influence of special enzymes.

This is a cycle that allows the body to develop properly and helps the functioning of various processes in the body. When taking an analysis, a specialist can promptly identify any abnormalities and begin treatment.

Blood donation period

Depending on the type of hormone, the test takes place in different period menstrual cycle.

Progesterone helps the egg implant in the uterus. If the level in the pregnant woman’s body is insufficient, a miscarriage may occur. Progesterone is determined on days 22–23, at the 28th menstrual cycle, it is produced yellow body ovary.

• the presence of hair on the beard is noted, sideburns begin to grow, and the chest is covered with hair;
• fatigue, sudden mood swings;
• changes in the menstrual cycle;
• hair loss or fragility;
• dry mouth, frequent urination, psoriasis.

The period of change also depends on the age of the female half of humanity. For teenagers, an alarm bell is the absence of menstruation, poor breast development, and excessive thinness.

After 40 years, women experience disruptions due to the onset of menopause. If there are painful manifestations, headaches, chest pain, hot flashes, insomnia. This is the first reason that obliges you to see a doctor.

You should never ignore your health problems. Timely diagnosis health and treatment are the key to good condition of the body. To prevent problems, you need to carefully monitor your health and undergo a medical examination on time. This will save a person from serious troubles that arise from hormonal imbalance.

Hormonal system man today works almost the same as that of primitive man. Technologically and socially we are developing much faster. But it is the uninterrupted operation of the hormonal system that ensures the survival and adaptation of humanity as a species. Job internal organs, reproductive functions, the sleep-wake cycle, desire, pregnancy, childbirth - all this is under the control of hormones and it is almost limitless. Where are hormones synthesized? How does the hormonal system work? When to take hormone tests? Where can I get tested for hormones? How to decipher them? The answers to these and many other questions are in this article.

Hormonal regulation in our bodies

Hormones- group biologically active substances, which are secreted by endocrine glands and non-glandular tissues. Their purpose is to regulate the functioning of the body. Some affect all systems at once, others have specific target organs and target tissues and act only on them.

For example, prolactin, among other things, causes the growth of mammary glands, an increase in the number of lobules and ducts in the breast. This means that there are target tissues for prolactin in the breast. The body's hormonal system is called the endocrine system, which includes endocrine glands, which produce hormones.

Main organs of the endocrine system

Localization is vital important glands may be different. Part is located in the brain, such as the pineal gland, for example, part is concentrated in the chest, lower back, in the lower part of the body, like the ovaries or testes - the human gonads.

1. Pineal gland, pituitary gland, hypothalamus.

2. Thyroid gland, thymus, adrenal glands, pancreas.

3. In women - the ovaries and during pregnancy - the placenta, in men - the testicles.

Although there is no thorough understanding of the mechanism of operation of most hormones, nevertheless, scientists have been able to develop hormonal contraceptives for women, as well as medications to restore healthy hormonal levels.

10 causes of hormonal imbalances in women and men

1. Stress. Hormonal imbalances can cause frequent releases of cortisol, the “stress hormone.”

2. Abuse of diets. Since estrogens are produced in fat tissue, thin girls almost certainly have an imbalance. In order for a woman’s hormonal background to be healthy, she must have at least some fat reserves.

3. Night shift work, lack of sleep or frequent flights between time zones cause a disruption in the daily schedule of hormone levels and general hormonal levels.

4. “Self-appointment” hormonal drugs (hormonal contraceptives for women should only be selected by a doctor).

5. A diet rich in phytohormones. Some foods and drinks contain substances that cause problems in women and men: for example, beer, when entering the female body, causes the masculinization of women and the feminization of men. This means that men's hormonal balance is disrupted and they become like women: their belly grows, fat is quickly deposited, their breasts enlarge and begin to sag. In women, the disturbances are also noticeable: hair begins to grow above the lips and on the chin and in other undesirable places, the hips become narrower, and the shoulders become wider.

6. Intensive sports activities, physical overload. Disorders in women can begin even after such for a non-obvious reason. In addition, playing sports during menstruation can lead to endometriosis.

7. Heredity. Hormonal disorders in women and men in this case are difficult to treat.

8. Past infections , especially sexually transmitted infections, can cause hormonal imbalance.

9. Living in an environmentally unfavorable region. Hormonal balance is violated 30% more often in residents of industrial, polluted regions.

Changes in the body, decreased or increased levels of hormones can cause a wide variety of symptoms of hormonal imbalances: weight loss and weight gain, hair growth in the most unwanted places or hair disappearing from where it should be, acne and dry skin, as well as more serious ones - up to infertility.

The most common general symptoms of hormonal imbalance include:

• Sudden weight gain or weight loss not associated with a change in diet;
• Problems with conception;
• Excess growth body hair in women;
• Constant feeling depression without sufficient reason or sudden mood swings;
• Irregular menstruation(menstrual irregularities).
• Severe premenstrual syndrome.

Disturbances in the production of certain hormones in women and men can be caused by:

• Diabetes;
• Sleep problems;
• Trembling fingers;
• Increased sweating;
• Lethargy, apathy;
• Hair loss;
• Changing the timbre of the voice;
• Rapid growth of hands and feet;
• Changes in facial features.

Acne - acne - also indicates a disorder. In girls and women, it is caused either by too many androgens in the body, or by a false hormonal imbalance - when the amount of male hormones is normal, but the receptors are too sensitive to them and behave as if there are a lot of androgens.

IN adolescence In a girl, hormonal imbalance can cause:

• underdevelopment of the uterus and mammary glands;
• lack of menstruation.

A woman experiences hormonal imbalances several times in her life: adolescence, during every pregnancy - even if an abortion was performed - and during menopause. The mechanism of how hormonal regulation works is not fully understood, but the most common causes of hormonal imbalances in women and men are known.

List of Hormone Imbalance Tests

When assessing a blood test for hormones of the thyroid gland or other endocrine glands, different clinics and laboratories adhere to different standards and may consider different values ​​as a deviation from the norm. Therefore, the interpretation of hormones may differ.

For various disorders, your doctor may prescribe tests for:

• Sex hormones;
• Thyroid hormones;
• Pituitary hormones.

It is important to know!

If a couple is interested in planning a pregnancy, hormone tests are prescribed if disturbances in the functioning of the endocrine glands are detected.

In most cases, blood is taken for analysis, in some cases urine is taken.

Hormone tests during pregnancy

Hormonal disorders in women during pregnancy may have serious consequences, That's why hormonal tests All women pass. However, the list of tests differs and depends on the health status of the pregnant woman and previous diseases. Changes in hormone levels occur before the mother and fetus begin to feel symptoms of hormonal imbalance, so a timely hormone test, the decoding of which showed deviations, helps prevent serious problems.

What tests are prescribed for everyone during pregnancy?

Chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a female sex hormone that is secreted by the placenta during pregnancy. HCG level is the highest reliable way determine whether pregnancy has occurred. Appears in the blood a week after conception, in the urine one to two days later. Analysis of sex hormones at 16–20 weeks - hCG, estriol and AFP - allows you to assess possible deviations in fetal development.

Estradiol- female sex hormone, “responsible” for the normal course of pregnancy. Concentrations in the blood increase with each week of pregnancy, reaching a peak at childbirth.

Progesterone, like other female sex hormones, is produced in the ovaries and placenta and ensures the normal course of pregnancy. Its decrease indicates that there is a threat of miscarriage.

Free estriol secreted by the placenta. In this case, the analysis makes it possible to determine how developed and active the blood flow is in the umbilical cord and placenta. Like progesterone and some other female sex hormones, estriol can indicate post-term pregnancy. Also, its concentration is important in cases where there is a suspicion of a child’s developmental delay.

Alpha fetoprotein(AFP) is produced by the fetus. Its level may indicate fetal malformations.

Prolactin stimulates the absorption of calcium, milk production, and development of the mammary glands. An analysis of sex hormones, including prolactin, shows whether the pregnancy is post-term and how well the mother-placenta-fetus system works.

17-ketosteroids(17-KS) is a “processing product” of male hormones, which allows us to indirectly judge their level in the body. If tests for sex hormones show elevated levels of 17-KS, this indicates an excess of androgens, which can lead to fetal death or miscarriage.

Sex hormone binding globulin(SHBG) is a protein that, by binding sex hormones, reduces their activity. Testing for hormones is often accompanied by testing for SHBG. During pregnancy, its level helps to predict the likelihood of complications for the mother and child.

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate(DEA sulfate). Hormone testing during pregnancy often includes determination of DHEA sulfate levels instead of 17-CS. Its concentration can warn doctors about fetal growth retardation, and from the 12th to 15th week it allows assessing the functioning of the placenta and blood flow in the umbilical cord.

Testosterone are taken to determine the presence of development of congenital dysfunction of the adrenal cortex.

Tests for thyroid hormones. The results of tests for the hormones produced by the thyroid gland - T3 and T4 - allow us to assess the progress of pregnancy and the development of the child as a whole. If a blood test for thyroid hormones shows a decrease in their concentration, the risk of fetal death increases.

Thyroid-stimulating hormone(TSH) is produced in the pituitary gland. Its target is the thyroid gland, where it stimulates the production of the hormones T3 and T4. Thyroid hormone testing often includes a TSH test, although it is not a thyroid hormone test. Analysis for TSH, T3 and T4 can be interpreted differently based on what standards the doctor adheres to (in the USA alone there are currently 4 standards recommended by various major health organizations).

Tests for sex hormones

If you take hormone tests in different laboratories, the interpretation will be different. This is because different reagents and techniques are used, so take standard indicators where you took the test. A decreased or increased level does not necessarily indicate the presence of a disease or hormonal imbalances in women and men - just retake the tests in another place, taking into account the standards adopted in this laboratory.

Tests for hormones, the norm of which varies depending on age and the phase of the menstrual cycle, should only be interpreted by a doctor. Ask your doctor about where to get your hormones tested.

How and when to take hormone tests?

1.Tests are taken on an empty stomach.

2. One day before the test, you should not have sex, drink alcohol or smoke.

3.The day before the test, limit physical activity.

4. Stress can distort the results - it is best to take tests in a calm state.

5. If you are taking hormonal medications, tell your doctor. Hormone tests are useless if the interpretation was made without taking into account the use of hormonal medications and other drugs that can artificially stimulate or suppress the production of hormones.

Female hormones: analysis

Thyroid hormone tests in men and non-pregnant women

There are only three thyroid hormones: T3 (triiodothyronine), T4 (thyroxine) and calcitonin. However, blood tests for thyroid hormones also include checking the concentration of other substances related to the functioning of this gland.

What tests are done for thyroid hormones? Analysis for thyroid hormones may include: analysis of thyroid-stimulating hormone, total T4, free T4, total T3, free T3, thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG), thyroglobulin, analysis of antibodies to thyroglobulin, to thyroid peroxidase.

Blood analysis thyroid hormone levels may show:

• norm;
• hypothyroidism - too little is secreted;
• hyperthyroidism - secretes too much.

The list of symptoms of hormonal imbalance in the thyroid gland is long, most symptoms are nonspecific, and in 80% of cases, patients do not feel any discomfort at all. Regular ultrasound once a year and a blood test for thyroid hormones can prevent the development of diseases.

It is especially important for children to undergo a blood test for thyroid hormones, since these substances are involved in the processes of tissue growth, the absorption of oxygen by cells, and the development of the body.

Testing for TSH, T3 and T4 is highly advisable for all residents living in regions with increased radioactive background: exposure radioactive iodine causes thyroid disease in the body.

A blood test for thyroid hormones in children helps prevent the development of serious abnormalities

• If a blood test has been performed on a newborn, thyroid hormones are not produced sufficiently, this may indicate the development of cretinism.
• In childhood, hypothyroidism inhibits the growth of the limbs (they become disproportionately short).
• If a teenager has had a blood test done, thyroid hormone production is low, which may explain delayed puberty and weight gain.

Normal hormonal levels for adults (men and non-pregnant women)

Hormone analysis: explanation

If your values ​​differ from those given in the table, you do not necessarily need hormonal restoration- ask for a table with standards in the laboratory where you took the test and check it. For staging accurate diagnosis The whole picture is important, not just the numbers in the analysis table.

A blood test (deciphering) for hormones should be performed by a doctor - do not try to independently determine what is elevated and what is decreased based on data from reference books. For assessment, analysis and treatment of such disorders, find good doctor, preferably one of the leading specialists.

Hormonal imbalance: treatment

In cases where men's or female hormones The analysis showed a hormonal imbalance; treatment, as a rule, involves taking medications based on synthetic analogues hormones. Hormonal background women are stabilized by taking correctly selected COCs and progestin contraceptives - this is real hormonal restoration of the reproductive system. Hormonal imbalance in women, the symptoms of which are usually clearly visible, can be both the cause and consequence of serious systemic violations.

Hormonal imbalance in women, the symptoms of which are usually clearly visible, can be both a cause and a consequence of serious systemic disorders. A woman’s hormonal cycle should work exactly like a Swiss watch: if you feel that something is wrong, do not hesitate to contact a gynecologist or endocrinologist. He will tell you what hormone tests you need to take and write out a referral.

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