How to investigate the causes of hormonal imbalance
Mar 20, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Test various baseline hormones including thyroid hormones, sex hormones, insulin, cortisol, etc. Abnormal thyroid hormone levels reflect thyroid dysfunction; imbalances in sex hormones are related to reproductive endocrinology; abnormal insulin levels affect blood glucose regulation. Through these measurements, the basic secretory function of endocrine glands can be assessed, and hormone deficiencies or excesses can be identified.
Endocrine disorders can generally be diagnosed through methods such as hormone level testing, imaging examinations, urine tests, metabolic index testing, and autoantibody testing. If physical discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and follow medical advice for appropriate management.
1. Hormone Level Testing: This involves testing various baseline hormones, including thyroid hormones, sex hormones, insulin, and cortisol. Abnormal thyroid hormone levels may indicate thyroid dysfunction; sex hormone imbalances are associated with reproductive endocrine disorders; and abnormal insulin levels relate to blood glucose regulation. Testing helps assess the baseline secretory function of endocrine glands and determine whether hormone levels are deficient or excessive.
2. Imaging Examinations: Ultrasound can be used to observe the morphology, size, and structure of endocrine organs such as the thyroid, breasts, ovaries, and testes, helping detect nodules, cysts, or other lesions. CT or MRI scans provide clearer visualization of deep-seated endocrine organs, such as the pituitary gland and adrenal glands, to identify tumors or other organic lesions.
3. Urine Tests: Sometimes, hormone metabolites in urine are measured to evaluate hormone synthesis and excretion. These metabolites reflect the body's hormone secretion and excretion status, aiding in the diagnosis of endocrine disorders. Based on urine test results, doctors may provide corresponding treatment recommendations, such as dietary adjustments or increased fluid intake.
4. Metabolic Index Testing: This includes testing lipid profile, blood glucose, serum uric acid, liver function, and kidney function. Endocrine disorders often accompany metabolic disturbances—for example, hypothyroidism can lead to elevated blood lipids, and insulin resistance can cause abnormal blood glucose levels. Abnormal metabolic indices can help trace the underlying cause of endocrine dysfunction.
5. Autoantibody Testing: This involves testing for specific autoantibodies related to endocrine organs such as the thyroid and adrenal glands, including thyroid peroxidase antibodies and thyroglobulin antibodies. Autoimmune diseases are common causes of endocrine disorders, and antibody testing helps determine whether there is autoimmune attack against endocrine organs.
In daily life, it is recommended to maintain healthy eating habits, engage in regular physical activity, and keep a regular sleep schedule, all of which contribute to maintaining endocrine stability.
References:
[1] Huang Yali. Clinical Application of Sex Hormone Testing in Gynecological Endocrine Disorders [C]//Yulin Medical Association. Proceedings of the 4th National Medical Research Forum (Volume II). Zhengning County People's Hospital; 2024:491-497.
[2] Lu Huijuan, Zhang Junli, Chen Caiyun. Study on the Effect of Health Education Intervention on Nursing Care and Blood Glucose Indices in Women with Endocrine Disorders Complicated by Diabetes [J]. Studies of Trace Elements and Health, 2024, 41(04):13-15.
