10 Weird Symptoms of Low Estrogen You Shouldn’t Ignore

Estrogen, the primary female hormone that regulates sexual activity, is essential in maintaining health and well-being. Although its primary function is regulating menstrual cycles and reproductive functions, it can also impact other bodily systems like the skin, brain bones, heart, and skin. Low estrogen levels may be caused by various factors like menopausal changes or medical conditions, as well as specific medication. However, the signs of low estrogen usually go beyond the obvious and may present strange and unpredictable symptoms.

Here are ten weird signs of low estrogen that you should not be able to ignore:

1. Frequent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Although UTIs typically are caused by low bacterial infections, estrogen levels can dramatically increase the risk of developing UTIs. Estrogen is a key ingredient in maintaining the elasticity and thickness of the urinary and vaginal tract tissues, and also the acidic pH that impedes the growth of bacteria. If estrogen levels decrease, the tissues get thinner and more susceptible to infection. Infrequent or frequent UTIs can be a sign that estrogen levels aren’t where they are supposed to be.

2. Dry Skin and Brittle Nails

Estrogen helps maintain skin hydration and elasticity by stimulating collagen production and controlling sebum levels. Estrogen deficiency may result in dry skin, flaky, and a reduction in elasticity. Additionally, nails can be brittle, break easily, or take longer to develop. These changes aren’t just cosmetic; they could indicate an imbalance in hormones.

3. Joint Pain or Stiffness

Estrogen is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help to protect joints. When estrogen levels drop, particularly during menopausal changes, there are many women who suffer from joint stiffness, pain, or swelling. The symptoms are often misinterpreted as arthritis or general aging. If joint pain is present along with other signs of estrogen deficiency, it might be time to consider a hormonal test.

4. Mood Swings and Depression

Low estrogen levels can significantly impact mood and emotional well-being. Estrogen affects the creation and control of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is responsible for feeling happy and stable in the emotional state. If estrogen levels are not sufficient, serotonin levels could decline, resulting in mood swings, anger, and depression. These mood changes are often thought to be caused by stressors outside, which can delay assessment and therapy.

5. Fatigue and Low Energy Levels

Inexplicably, lower energy levels could be due to insufficient estrogen levels. Estrogen can affect how your body processes glucose and creates energy. It also affects sleep quality by controlling the hormones that regulate sleep, including melatonin. The decline in estrogen levels can cause sleep problems and general fatigue, even with adequate rest.

6. Memory Problems and Brain Fog

If you experience a lack of concentration or forgetfulness, it might be a symptom of lower estrogen levels. Estrogen is essential to maintain cognitive functions like attention and memory. The decline in estrogen levels could cause a condition described as “brain fog,” characterized by confusion, mental sluggishness, and difficulties focusing. This condition is most common when menopausal or perimenopausal.

7. Cold Sensitivity

Are you feeling unusually cold every day? The low levels of estrogen could be the cause. Estrogen plays a vital role in controlling body temperature through controlling the hypothalamus, the portion of our brain responsible for controlling temperature. When estrogen levels decrease, it could alter this balance, making people feel chilly, even in hot environments.

8. Thinning Hair and Hair Loss

Although hair loss is often linked to stress or aging, Low estrogen could be an unnoticed cause. Estrogen stimulates hair growth through hair (growth) part of our hair cycle. Deficiency may shorten this stage, leading to thin hair, receding hairline, or visible hair loss. This can have a significant impact on confidence and the quality of life.

9. Digestive Issues

Constipation, bloating, and changes in bowel habits could be symptom of low estrogen levels. Estrogen impacts the gut microbiome and can help regulate bowel movement. A decrease in estrogen levels may reduce digestion, which can cause discomfort and a lack of regular stool movements.

10. Weakened Sense of Smell or Taste

Although they are less well-known but more common, modifications in your sense of taste or smell could be a sign of low estrogen levels. This is because estrogen affects the sense of smell and taste by altering the function of nerves and neurotransmitter activity. A decrease in these sensory functions could be used as a subtle yet significant sign of an imbalance in the hormones.

Causes of Low Estrogen Levels

Knowing the reasons behind low estrogen levels is essential for finding possible treatments. Common causes include:

• Menopause and Perimenopause: The natural decrease in the production of estrogen during menopausal changes is the most frequent reason for low estrogen levels.
• Premature Ovarian Deficiency: Women younger than 40 might have lower levels of estrogen due to ovarian dysfunction.
• Medicines and Treatments: Radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical removal Ovaries may result in lower estrogen levels.
• Hormonal Disorders: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hypothalamic amenorrhea may interfere with the production of estrogen.
• Lifestyle Factors Stress, excessive exercise, or a lack of body fat may cause hormonal imbalances.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you suspect you are suffering from low estrogen levels, you should consult your doctor for an evaluation. Diagnostic procedures typically include:

• Medical History Review: Review symptoms and potential risk elements.
• Hormonal Tests for Blood: Test for estrogen and hormones.
• Images Tests: Test the pituitary gland and ovaries for structural problems.

Treatment choices for low estrogen are:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Prescribed creams or medicines to replenish estrogen levels.
• Lifestyle Changes: Combining a healthy diet, exercise routine, and stress management techniques may enhance hormonal health.
• Alternative therapies: Plant-based phytoestrogens (plant-based compounds that have similar effects to estrogen), and acupuncture could assist in relieving symptoms of low estrogen.

When to Seek Help

While fluctuations in estrogen levels can be expected, severe or persistent symptoms shouldn’t be overlooked. A prompt diagnosis and timely treatment could stop complications like cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and lower quality of life.

In the end, the low levels of estrogen can be manifested in unexpected ways, from joint pain, hair loss to mood and digestive issues. If you recognize these odd signs, it is possible to make proactive efforts to correct hormonal imbalances and protect your health. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek a medical professional to discuss treatment and diagnostic options that meet your specific requirements.

FAQs

What is estrogen, and why is it important?

Estrogen is the main female sex hormone responsible for regulating reproductive functions, such as the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. Beyond reproduction, estrogen plays an important part in maintaining the density of bones and skin health, mental stability, and heart health.

How do I know if my symptoms are related to low estrogen?

If you’re experiencing one of these symptoms continuously or in combination, especially those who are in perimenopause or menopausal, the hormone estrogen may be the reason. See a doctor to make a correct diagnosis.

Can low estrogen affect my mood?

Low estrogen can cause mood swings, anger, and depression. Estrogen affects serotonin production and is a neurotransmitter that helps control mood. The lower estrogen levels can affect emotional stability.

Why does low estrogen cause joint pain?

Estrogen is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that helps safeguard joints. When estrogen levels fall, inflammation increases, which can cause joint stiffness, pain, or swelling. This is most frequent during menopause.

What role does estrogen play in skin and hair health?

Estrogen increases the creation of collagen, skin moisture, and hair growth. Insufficient estrogen levels can result in dry skin, flaky hair, dry nails, thin hair, or loss of hair due to reduced hair growth.

Why does low estrogen make me more susceptible to UTIs?

Estrogen is a key ingredient in maintaining the well-being of the urinary and vaginal tract tissues. It also helps to keep the pH of the urinary tract acidic, which helps to prevent bacteria-related infections. The decline in estrogen reduces the effectiveness of these defenses, thereby increasing the chance of UTIs.

Can low estrogen cause digestive issues?

Yes, low estrogen levels can alter the microbiome of your gut and reduce gastrointestinal motility, which can cause constipation, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. These digestive issues are often dismissed as a sign of hormonal issues.

What are the risks of untreated low estrogen?

If not treated, the low estrogen level can cause serious health issues, including:

• Osteoporosis: Low bone density and an increased risk of fracture.
• Heart issues: Heart disease is an increasing risk factor.
• Cognitive decline: Problems with memory and the increased risk of developing dementia.
• Sexual health problems: Vaginal dryness and decreased sexual libido.