Hormone Imbalance
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The Riegel Center
Christopher J. Riegel, M.D.
Hormone Replacement Specialist & Age Management Specialist located in Plano, TX
A hormone imbalance can keep you from enjoying the fulfilling life you deserve. If you’re struggling with sluggishness, mood swings, weight gain, or other signs of an imbalance, Christopher Joseph Riegel, MD, can help at his office in Plano, Texas. Dr. Riegel is a recognized hormone expert specializing in hormone imbalances affecting men and women over 30. He uses an evidence-based approach to care that focuses on addressing your specific imbalance. To learn more, call Dr. Riegel’s office or schedule an appointment online today.
What is a hormone imbalance?
Hormones are chemical messengers produced by your endocrine glands to control many bodily functions. From digestion and metabolism to temperature regulation and mood, hormones play a crucial part in how you look, feel, and behave.
A hormone imbalance occurs when your body produces too little or too many of these chemicals. Because hormones regulate many fundamental processes, even a small imbalance can affect your libido, weight, body temperature, and other essential functions.
What are the symptoms of a hormone imbalance?
Many men and women experience low levels of the hormones estrogen and testosterone with age. While both sexes need these hormones, estrogen is essential for female development, while testosterone gives men many of their male characteristics.
An imbalance in either of these hormones can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, such as:
- Increased abdominal fat
- Weight gain
- Decreased muscle mass
- Depression and anxiety
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Vaginal dryness
- Erectile dysfunction
- Low libido
- Weakened bones
- Night sweats and hot flashes
- Difficulty concentrating/brain fog
- Thinning hair
- Dry skin
Diagnosing your specific hormone imbalance is essential to ensure you receive the appropriate treatment.
What causes a hormone imbalance?
While your hormone levels naturally rise and fall throughout life, many underlying factors can cause a hormone imbalance, including:
- Autoimmune disorders (Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease, etc.)
- Steroid use
- Endocrine gland injuries
- Tumors
- Puberty
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Andropause
- Stress
- Certain medications
Dr. Riegel uncovers the cause of your hormone imbalance and develops a personalized treatment plan to restore your hormone function.
How does testing for a hormone imbalance work?
Dr. Riegel uses a comprehensive hormone questionnaire, medical history review, and blood work to test your hormone levels. He partners with LabCorp® to test your estrogen, cortisol, and thyroid hormones to determine if you need treatment.
I have a hormone imbalance. What are my treatment options?
With bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), Dr. Riegel can restore your hormone levels to address your precise imbalance. Formulating BHRT to your specific needs allows you to take advantage of the treatment’s full benefits.
After you start treatment, Dr. Riegel orders blood work at one month, three months, and six months to monitor your progress. He can adjust your plan if necessary to address your changing needs.
Don’t let a hormone imbalance affect your quality of life and overall well-being. Call Christopher Joseph Riegel, MD, or schedule an appointment online today to receive care tailored to you.
