Hormones play a vital role in maintaining a balance in various bodily functions. These chemicals are produced by endocrine glands and then circulated through the bloodstream to act on specific organs or tissues. Although not always immediately noticeable, hormones work daily to regulate metabolism, growth, reproduction, stress responses, and mood.

When hormonal balance is disrupted, the body typically sends signals. Some symptoms that may arise include fatigue, unexplained weight fluctuations, difficulty sleeping, menstrual irregularities, mood swings, stress, and sexual dysfunction. These symptoms are often considered normal, but they may be related to hormonal conditions that require further evaluation.

There are various types of hormones that can be assessed through laboratory tests, depending on the patient's symptoms and medical needs. Metabolic and thyroid hormone tests can include insulin, glucagon, T3, T4, free T3, free T4, TSH, and TSH receptor antibodies. For growth, there is a growth hormone test. For male reproductive health, tests can include testosterone, LH, FSH, prolactin, and inhibin.

Meanwhile, female reproductive hormone tests can include estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, estradiol, beta-hCG, LH, FSH, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), and DHEA-S. Furthermore, the hormone cortisol plays a role in the stress response, while dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins are associated with mood and feelings of happiness.

Because each complaint can have different causes, hormone tests should be tailored to each individual's condition. With appropriate testing, PRAMITA Friends can better understand their body's signals and take more targeted preventative and treatment steps.

To find out about appropriate hormone tests, contact your nearest PRAMITA Clinical Laboratory.