Androgen Disorders

What Are Androgen Disorders?

Androgen disorders are conditions where there is an imbalance in the production or action of androgenic hormones. Androgens are a group of testosterone-like hormones, often referred to as male sex hormones that are present in both men and women, though in different amounts.

Androgen disorders occur when there are too much or too little of these hormones in the body. This imbalance can cause a variety of symptoms and can sometimes affect your health.

What Are The Causes of Androgen Disorders?

Androgen disorders happen when your body produces too much or too little of the hormones called androgens. These imbalances can be caused by a variety of health conditions or factors, including:

Causes of Too Much Androgen (Androgen Excess)

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A common condition in women that causes hormonal imbalance and excess androgen production.
• Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): A genetic condition affecting the adrenal glands, leading to extra androgen production.
• Adrenal or Ovarian Tumors: Rare growths that can produce excess androgens.
• Cushing’s Syndrome: A condition where the body makes too much cortisol, sometimes increasing androgen levels.
• Medications: Certain drugs, like anabolic steroids or some hormone therapies, can increase androgen levels.

Causes of Too Little Androgen (Androgen Deficiency)

• Primary Hypogonadism: When the testes or ovaries don’t produce enough hormones due to injury, infection, or genetic conditions.
• Secondary Hypogonadism: Problems in the brain areas (pituitary or hypothalamus) that control hormone production.
• Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome: A rare genetic condition where the body can’t respond properly to androgens.
• Chronic Illness or Stress: Long-term illnesses or stress can lower androgen production.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms of Androgen Disorders?

Too Much Androgen (Androgen Excess)

When your body makes too many androgens, you might notice symptoms such as:

• Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
• Acne or oily skin
• Irregular or missed periods (in women)
• Hair thinning or male-pattern baldness
• Deepening of the voice (in some cases)

Too Little Androgen (Androgen Deficiency)

Low androgen levels can lead to:

• Fatigue or low energy
• Decreased sex drive
• Mood changes or depression
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty with fertility

What Are The Risk Factors of Androgen Disorders?

Certain factors may increase your risk of developing androgen disorders—either too much or too little of these important hormones. Understanding your personal risk can help you take steps to prevent or manage these conditions.

Risk Factors for Too Much Androgen (Androgen Excess)

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Family History:  if you have a family history of PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), or other hormone disorders, you may be more likely to develop an androgen imbalance.
• Obesity or Insulin Resistance:Being overweight or having conditions like type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance can contribute to excess androgen production, particularly in women with PCOS.
• Age: Women who are in their reproductive years are more likely to experience androgen excess, especially if they have conditions like PCOS
• Medications: Using anabolic steroids, certain hormonal therapies, or other medications that affect hormone levels can increase your androgen levels.

Risk Factors for Too Little Androgen (Androgen Deficiency)

• Pituitary or Hypothalamic Issues: Any condition that affects the pituitary gland or hypothalamus (like tumors, infections, or head injuries) can disrupt androgen production and cause low levels.
• Chronic Illness or Stress: Ongoing stress, chronic illness (e.g., kidney disease, liver disease), or long-term use of medications can lower testosterone levels in both men and women.
• Genetic Conditions: Conditions like androgen insensitivity syndrome can prevent the body from responding properly to androgens, even if they are produced normally.
• Obesity: In both men and women, excess body fat, especially abdominal fat, can lower testosterone levels or contribute to hormonal imbalances.

How Are Androgen Disorders Diagnosed?

We use blood tests to measure hormone levels and sometimes imaging tests to check the glands that produce hormones.

What Are Possible Treatments For Androgen Disorders?

Androgen disorders, whether from too much or too little androgen production, can be managed effectively with the right treatment. The specific treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the disorder and the severity of your symptoms.  Some common options are Medications to Block Androgens, Hormonal Birth Control (for Women), Insulin-Sensitizing Medications, Surgical Treatment for Growth, Weight Management, and Lifestyle modifications.

Are There Preventative Steps or Measures To Avoid Androgen Disorders?

While androgen disorders are often influenced by factors like genetics, age, and other health conditions, there are still steps you can take to reduce your risk or manage your hormone levels effectively.  Which include- maintaining a healthy weight, exercise, managing stress, avoiding excessive use of anabolic steroids, balanced diet and regular health screenings.

What Are The Risks If Androgen Disorders Are Left Untreated?

When androgen disorders are left untreated, they can lead to a range of complications that affect your overall health and quality of life. Androgens play important roles in the body, and when they are out of balance, it can have a significant impact. The risks of excess androgen are: Infertility, Cardiovascular Health issues, Metabolic issues, Skin problems, and Hair Loss.  The risks of androgen deficiency are Osteoporosis, Mood and Mental Health issues, Muscle Weakness and Fatigue.

Are There Other Related Conditions To Androgen Disorders?

Androgen disorders can sometimes be linked to other health conditions. These related conditions might either contribute to the hormone imbalance or result from it. Some of these conditions are PCOS,  Hypothyroidism, Metabolic Syndrome, Type 2 Diabetes, and Osteoporosis. 

Key Takeaways About Androgen Disorders

Adrenal disorders occur when your adrenal glands do not produce the right balance of hormones. These hormones are essential for regulating stress, metabolism, and other critical functions. If left untreated, adrenal disorders can lead to serious health issues like fatigue, weight changes, high blood pressure, and muscle weakness.

Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing symptoms and preventing complications. If you’re experiencing symptoms like unexplained weight gain, fatigue, low blood pressure, or skin changes, it’s important to get evaluated by a healthcare provider who can assess your adrenal function and help get your hormones back in balance.