Hormones are everything. They are responsible for keeping the body running efficiently. When there is a hormonal imbalance in your body — the body will let you know about it. Hormones tell the body what to do and when. Think of it as the bossy kid who’s telling everyone what to do on the playground!

The 411 on Hormones

Hormones are important in the body because they play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including growth and development, metabolism, hunger, sleep, stress, sex drive reproduction, mood, and behavior.

Hormones are chemical messengers that are produced by various glands in the endocrine system, such as the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and reproductive organs. They are released into the bloodstream and travel to specific target cells or organs, where they bind to specific receptors and initiate a response.

For example, insulin is a hormone that regulates glucose levels in the blood, while thyroid hormones control metabolism and energy production. Testosterone and estrogen are hormones that are involved in sexual development and reproductive functions, and cortisol is a hormone that helps the body respond to stress.

Hormonal imbalances can have significant effects on overall health and well-being. For example, too much or too little of certain hormones can lead to conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and infertility.

Your Body is Telling You Something

Here’s why hormones are important to understand. Anytime you might be feeling a bit “off” or not yourself, it’s your body responding to hormones. When levels are off balance, it can have an effect on your mood or your overall health. Listen to your body and get to the root of the problem because, depending on the issue, there could be treatment options that can make you feel better. Healthy hormonal balance ensures optimal bodily functions.

Hormone Testing to Keep You Healthy

Any Lab Test Now® can help. We provide a number of screenings that help determine if there are any irregularities in your hormone levels.

  • FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE (FSH) – This blood test measures the amount of FSH, or a sex hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your blood. In women, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates production of eggs and a hormone called estradiol during the first half of the menstrual cycle. In men, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates production of sperm.
  • WEIGHT MANAGEMENT HORMONE TEST PANEL – Maintaining a healthy weight could actually be a hormone issue. Hormone imbalances may make it difficult to maintain your weight. This panel, obtained through a blood test, can help you and your healthcare provider understand any potential underlying hormonal imbalances that could affect weight gain, weight loss, or weight management.
  • CORTISOL HORMONE TEST (SALIVA) –This is not a blood test but rather a less invasive way to measure the level of cortisol in the body through saliva. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and regulated by the hypothalamus, a part of the brain, and the pituitary gland. Your cortisol level stimulates liver glucose production, helps to maintain blood pressure, and regulates the immune system affecting inflammation. It also helps us react to physical and emotional stress.
  • THYROID STIMULATING HORMONE – The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating how your body uses energy. The thyroid also produces hormones critical to proper cell and system functioning.

Testing That Works For You

It’s important to remember that hormones are cyclical. So, when you have any hormone level testing done, it may show abnormalities that may need to be retested due to the cycle of the hormones at the time of the labs. Hormone cycles are an important part of the body’s natural functioning, but changes in hormone levels can have a significant impact on health and well-being. It’s important to be aware of how your body’s hormone cycles may be affecting you and to seek medical advice if you experience any unusual or concerning symptoms. Any Lab Test Now® is your partner as you work to maintain your health and wellness. Either we provide the doctor’s order for the lab test at no additional cost, or we accept your physician’s order.

How to Handle Your Test Results

The lab tests we provide are confidential, affordable, and convenient. You own the results, and you choose how to proceed with them. We do encourage you to consult with your provider for further details and to make the best decisions about your health. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with DialCare. This service helps you find a provider licensed in your state.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

No need to wonder or worry about what’s going on with your body. Any Lab Test Now ® can provide the answers you need. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.