Hormones are in control of almost every aspect of our physical and mental health. So, when they are not balanced, it can pose many health issues. Hormones contribute to a number of symptoms including insomnia, weight gain, headaches, irritability, depression, anxiety and other debilitating symptoms.
Many times, hormone issues are overlooked because these symptoms are attributed to other health issues. However, it’s important that hormone imbalances be addressed before they lead to other more serious health concerns.
Functional medicine offers a comprehensive and thorough approach to dealing with hormone issues. It begins with analysis. This means finding the underlying cause of the hormone imbalance. Proper testing starts with running a panel of comprehensive tests, which can include, but is not limited to a complete blood chemistry panel, saliva testing, and urine and stool samples.
It is only after a complete analysis of your health history and test results that your practitioner will recommend a care plan for you. Because every patient is unique, your care plan will be customized to your individual test results and needs. This is not a “one size fits all” approach to health care. This care plan is based on safe, and effective therapies, nutrition and lifestyle changes.
The principles of functional medicine encourage a partnership between practitioner and patient that is designed to help the patient take charge of their health. Patients are educated about their condition, mentored throughout the recovery process and coached to learn the skills they will need to make the lifestyle changes that will improve not only their current condition, but also their overall health for the long-term.
There are a lot of patients who are finding success with this comprehensive approach. They enjoy the benefits of the personal attention and customized care. They feel empowered by the fact that they are able to take charge of their own health. Best of all, they are achieving results that are helping them feel better long-term.
If you’ve been experiencing symptoms from a hormone imbalance, understand that there is hope and there are solutions out there for you. Look for a practitioner who has training in functional medicine who will be committed to determining the cause of your condition and offering the customized care that can achieve the results that you have been looking for.
With an experienced functional medicine provider in your corner you will be guided and coached on your new path to wellness. No longer do you need to feel perplexed and hopeless. If the traditional medical approach has left you frustrated try a new way.
-Dr. Ashley Woyak, Forward Natural Medicine