Hormone

Hormones are chemical messengers, secreted by endocrine glands into the bloodstream and influence the function of cells at another location in the body. A hormone is synthesized by one type of cell. Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Some functions of hormones are:
  • Growth: Stimulates body growth, fat breakdown, and the growth of cartilage and bone.
  • Metabolism: Body’s chemical processes.
  • Electrolyte balances: Regulation of body salts.
  • Reproduction: Process of creating offspring.
  • Mood: Emotional state.
  • Response to injury, stress, and environmental factors: Reaction to harm, pressure, and surroundings.
  • Blood sugar: Glucose levels in the bloodstream.
  • Blood pressure: Force of blood against arterial walls.
  • Sex drive: Libido or sexual desire.
  • Sleep: Resting state of the body.

How do hormones work?

For a hormone to affect a specific part of the body, it needs to match with receptors, akin to a key fitting into a lock. Each target site, like an organ, has receptors with specific shapes on cell walls. If the hormone fits these receptors, it can exert its effects.

Hormones can initiate a series of signalling pathways within cells, triggering either immediate responses (like insulin prompting rapid glucose uptake by muscle cells) or delayed effects (where glucocorticoids activate protein production by binding to DNA elements, a process requiring time).

The endocrine system operates within precise boundaries, maintaining hormone levels and their effects at optimal levels. This regulation is achieved through mechanisms like “feedback loops,” where the release of hormones is controlled by other hormones, proteins, or neuronal signals.

What tissues in the body produce hormones?

1. secreted By endocrine gland:

  • Anterior pituitary:(growth hormones, thyroid stimulating hormones, adrenocorticotropic, prolactin)
  • Posterior pituitary(antidiuretic hormone, oxytocin)
  • Thyroid gland(thyroxine, T3)
  • Parathyroid gland(parathormone)
  • Testis(testosterone,androstenedione)
  • Oestrogen(oestrogen,progesterone)
  • pancreas(insulin,glucagon)

2. secreted by an organ

  • Thymus(thymosin,thymine)
  • kidney (erythropoietin, thrombopoietin, renin)
  • Heart(Atrial natriuretic peptide,brain natriuretic)

 

Causes hormonal imbalances

Hormone imbalances can stem from various conditions or circumstances, including:

  • Tumours, adenomas, or other abnormal growths affecting endocrine glands.
  • Damage or trauma to an endocrine gland.
  • Autoimmune disorders targeting endocrine glands.
  • Hereditary gene mutations that disrupt the structure or function of an endocrine gland.

 

Issues with the endocrine system.

Endocrine system disorders encompass various issues, including hormone overproduction or underproduction. Endocrine organs are susceptible to tumours, known as adenomas, which can lead to excessive hormone secretion. Common problems include:

  • Diabetes – Elevated blood sugar levels due to insulin production issues. This encompasses type 1 diabetes (insulin deficiency) and type 2 diabetes (initially excess, then deficiency, of insulin).
  • Menstruation abnormalities – Irregular or absent menstrual cycles. Causes may include polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), pituitary adenoma, or primary ovarian failure (POF).
  • Thyroid problems – Dysfunction of the thyroid gland leading to either overactivity (hyperthyroidism) or underactivity (hypothyroidism). Thyroid nodules are common, but thyroid cancers are rare.
  • Parathyroid problems – Enlargement of one or more parathyroid glands resulting in elevated blood calcium levels (hypercalcemia).
  • Pituitary adenomas – Tumours in the pituitary gland causing either excessive or deficient hormone production. These tumours can be categorised as small (microadenomas) or large (macroadenomas).
  • Neuroendocrine tumours – Uncommon tumours originating from specific endocrine glands, typically the adrenal gland, pancreas, or small intestine. Examples include pheochromocytoma, characterised by excess adrenaline release from the adrenal gland, and carcinoid tumours, which can lead to diarrhoea and flushing due to elevated levels of hormone 5-HIAA.

 

Hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalance refers to disruptions in the normal levels of hormones in the body, which can affect various bodily functions and processes. Hormones play crucial roles in regulating metabolism, reproduction, mood, growth and development, and many other physiological functions. When hormone levels become too high or too low, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms and health issues.

  • Symptoms: Recognizing hormone imbalance symptoms in women is crucial for proactive wellness. Irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, persistent fatigue, and changes in skin health are common indicators of hormonal shifts. Keeping a detailed journal of symptoms, including their frequency and intensity, can help. Consultation with a healthcare professional who specialises in hormonal health is advisable to understand these cues and navigate toward hormonal harmony effectively.  
  • Naturally-balance hormones: To naturally balance hormones, consider incorporating hormone-balancing foods into your diet, such as omega-3-rich fish, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables. Additionally, practising mindfulness techniques like deep-breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help manage stress, a significant factor in hormonal equilibrium. Start by creating a list of hormone-friendly foods and scheduling brief daily mindfulness sessions to take proactive steps toward restoring natural balance.