Hormone Health:
At FoRM Health PDX, hormones are a primary focus amongst our Functional Medicine doctors. Why? Hormones are a critical aspect of whole body health and thriving with age, as they regulate numerous vital functions. When your hormones become unbalanced, the effects can be widespread. Comprehensive hormone testing and appropriate treatment can help you feel like yourself again.
What are some symptoms of hormonal imbalance?
Many symptoms can indicate hormonal imbalance. Both men and women might complain of:
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Thinning hair
- Dry skin
- Sensitivity to heat or cold
- Muscle loss or weakness
- Depression
- Increased hunger
- Brain fog
In women, signs of hormonal imbalance might include:
- Mood swings
- Premenstrual headaches
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes
- Excessive sweating
- Vaginal dryness
- Loss of libido
Functional Labs:
Avoid the frustration of being told “there’s nothing wrong” when standard labs fail to identify the underlying causes of your chronic symptoms. FoRM’s Functional Medicine specialists dig deeper to reveal hidden obstacles to your wellbeing. Comprehensive hormone testing and other functional tests offer insight into your unique health story which aids in the development of a unique treatment plan, formulated just for you.
Our most common Functional Lab tests:
- qEEG / Brain Mapping (offered in-house)
- Comprehensive hormone testing
- Stool (digestive and microbiome analysis)
- Food sensitivity panels
- Micronutrient testing (nutritional deficiencies)
- Mold and environmental exposure
- Advanced Cardiometabolic (detailed heart and diabetes)Tests
- Genetic testing
Why use Functional lab tests?
There is no “one size fits all” solution to health problems. Functional lab testing, along with a thorough health history and exam, helps put together the pieces of your unique health puzzle. Functional lab testing is often used to evaluate underlying causes of the following conditions and symptoms:
- PMS and other menstrual symptoms
- Menopausal symptoms ie Hot flashes, night sweats
- Digestive symptoms
- Anxiety & Depression
- Thyroid Dysfunction
- Insomnia and sleep disorders
- Brain Fog, ADD & ADHD
- Autoimmune conditions
- Diabetes & Weight issues
- Acne & other chronic skin conditions
- Fatigue
If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your FoRM Health PDX naturopathic doctor about the right type of testing for you, or schedule a consultation by phone or our online system. For more information or additional questions in setting up your appointment, call our office today.
Schedule with FoRM’s Hormone and Functional Lab specialists:
Dr. Caitlan Readhead ND (qEEG / Brain Mapping)
FAQ
Are there additional costs associated with Functional Lab tests?
Yes, these tests are often not covered by insurance. On occasion, your insurance may pay a portion of the cost after you have paid a set amount up front. All costs associated with these labs go directly to the lab company. Your FoRM provider does not benefit financially from ordering these tests. All expected fees will be discussed with you prior to ordering the tests, though fees are subject to change at the discretion of the lab company. In contrast, standard lab tests, either partially or fully, are often covered by your insurance plan. Functional labs may be combined with standard laboratory testing (typically covered by insurance) to provide us with the most complete picture of your health.
At FoRM, how do you treat hormone imbalances?
There are a variety of ways to correct and/or improve symptoms caused by hormone imbalances. Commonly used approaches include herbs, nutritional supplements, lifestyle and dietary interventions, and bio-identical hormone replacement.
What forms of hormone replacement do you typically prescribe?
Depending on the symptoms and desires of the patient, we prescribe hormones in the form of creams, sublingual troches (dissolve under the tongue), or injections. We do not recommend oral supplementation of most hormones.
How are hormone imbalances determined?
Symptoms are the most important indicator of hormone dysfunction. Testing is then used to help confirm the problem. Most commonly we test for hormonal imbalances via blood and/or urine.
Will insurance pay for a visit to discuss concerns about hormones?
Typically, yes. As long as you are seeing a doctor who is in network with your insurance plan.