Fatigue, poor sleep and low libido: could it be your hormones?
Yes, it can be, but not always. Menopause and low testosterone cause these symptoms, and so can the thyroid, anemia, diabetes, stress or some medications. Only an evaluation with lab work can tell one cause from another.
When it is worth checking your hormones
- Symptoms have lasted weeks or months.
- You are over 40, or your periods have changed.
- Rest does not help.
- You notice lower sex drive or less strength with no other explanation.
Which tests are usually ordered
It depends on your case: blood count, thyroid, glucose and, based on your symptoms, estradiol, FSH or testosterone.
What options exist
Depending on the cause, it may be a change in habits, treating another condition or hormone therapy. Read about hormone pellets in Miami Lakes.
When to request an evaluation
If your symptoms have lasted weeks and affect your sleep, mood, work or relationship, you do not have to wait until they get worse. At the evaluation I review your history, your medications and the lab work that applies to you, and I tell you clearly what I found and what options you have.
If you are in Miami Lakes or Hialeah
I see patients in English or Spanish in Miami Lakes, minutes from Hialeah, Hialeah Gardens and Miami Gardens. No referral needed. Learn about hormone therapy in Miami Lakes.
Sources
- National Academies: clinical utility of compounded bioidentical hormone therapy
- FDA: compounding laws and policies
- National Institute on Aging: what is menopause
- Endocrine Society: testosterone deficiency guideline
Would you like a visit in Miami Lakes?
Your safety comes first. Pellets are placed only after my evaluation and your lab work, and not everyone is a candidate. Hormone pellets prepared by compounding pharmacies do not go through the FDA review that approved medications have. Like any hormone treatment they have risks and side effects, and other options exist. Results vary from person to person.
Frequently asked questions
Can hormones cause fatigue?
Yes. Menopause changes and low testosterone can cause it, but so can other conditions.
Who should check my hormones?
You can start with your primary care provider. I evaluate you as a nurse practitioner in Miami Lakes.
Written by Obdelis Dominguez Romero, MSN, APRN, AGACNP-BC
Family nurse practitioner at OD Vitality, Miami Lakes. See education and license.
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical visit. In an emergency, call 911.
