The endocrine system consists of glands that produce hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that send instructions to the various organ systems in order to regulate vital bodily functions. Infection, injury and tumors can impact the ability of glands to produce hormones. As a result of irregular gland function, a person can experience increases or decreases in their body’s levels of hormone production. When abnormal hormone levels occur, a wide range of symptoms can result.
Sexual Effects
Men who have low testosterone levels can experience erectile dysfunction. Testosterone supports muscles contractility, so a decrease in testosterone can limit the ability of muscles in the penis to become erect. The enzyme aromatase is produced by fat cells.This enzyme changes testosterone to estrogen, thus excess body fat can lead to breast enlargement in males, according to Rocky Mountain Analytical Laboratories.
In women, thyroid hormone imbalances can cause menstrual irregularities, infertility, pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, and post partum thyroiditis. Polycystic ovarian syndrome, a disorder that can cause an increase in male hormones, results in irregular menstrual periods and is the most common cause of female infertility.
Diabetes
Diabetes is the most common hormonal disorder in the United States according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health. It occurs when insulin, a hormone, is produced in insufficient amounts, or when the body fails to utilize insulin efficiently.
Insulin is produced in the pancreas, which secretes the hormone in response to elevated blood glucose levels. Insulin regulates the amount of sugar, or glucose, that the blood contains. It does this by aiding in the transfer of sugar out of the blood into muscle cells.
When insulin levels decline, blood sugar rises. Long-term, high blood sugar levels can cause organ damage, heart disease, stroke and vision problems.
Metabolic Irregularities
The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, the rate at which the body uses energy. These hormones are known as T4, or thyroxine, and T3, or triiodothyronine.
When thyroid hormones are increased, a condition known as hyperthyroidism, metabolism speeds up. This can lead to weight loss, irritability, heat intolerance, heart arrhythmia and insomnia.
Hypothyroidism is a disease in which lower than normal thyroid hormone levels occur. This causes metabolism to slow down. TeensHealth.org explains that weight gain, fatigue, slowed growth and depression are often symptoms of hypothyroidism.
