Persistent fatigue and lack of energy
It is normal to feel tired at times, especially after a short night of sleep or a big day of work. But if you notice a drop in energy and an unusual fatigue that lasts in time, it could be linked to a hormonal problem like hypothyroidism. This disease slows down metabolism and can cause exhaustion, weight gain and lack of energy. It could also be Addison’s disease, according to Dr Austin Shuxiao, an internal medicine specialist questioned by the site Eating Well. “”Chronic fatigue and abdominal pain could indicate an addison disease, characterized by a lack of production of cortisol by the adrenal glands, and it is preferable to consult an endocrinologist “.
Sudden and unexplained weight changes
Variations in unexplained weight (not linked to changes in food), whether it is a weight loss or loss, may be a sign of thyroid dysfunction, insulin resistance or adrenal insufficiency. These conditions “can affect the way your body stores fat, burns energy and regulates appetite”Explains Dr. Lisa Young, a nutritionist dietitian.
You should know that a little active thyroid (hypothyroidism) can cause weight gain while a hyperactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause involuntary weight loss.
Mood swings or frequent emotional changes
Mood changes are nothing pathological when they are punctual and when we know the cause. However, if you notice daily mood swings, a hormonal imbalance can be the cause. Thyroid disorders, menopause or dysfunction of the adrenal glands may cause frequent mood swings, anxiety or even depression. If these emotional changes seem to arise from nowhere, an endocrinologist can help you identify the cause.
You are all the time thirsty
Excessive thirst can be a sign of diabetes or prediabetes, a disease that occurs when the level of blood sugar is too high. When the kidneys cannot reabsor all this excess sugar, it is eliminated in the urine, with large amounts of water. This increase in urination leads to a loss of liquid, triggering the feeling of thirst, the body trying to restore its water balance. Untreated diabetes can cause serious cardiac, eye, renal and nervous complications.
You have irregular menstrual cycles
Uncommon rules, abundant bleeding or an absence of rules may be a sign of hormonal disorders and justify consultation in an endocrinologist. These symptoms can have suspected polycystic ovary syndrome (SOPK), a thyroid disorder or other hormonal disorders that can affect overall health and fertility.