Maybe you're tired all the time, or seem to keep gaining weight for no obvious reason, or you have found yourself snapping at your partner over things that wouldn’t normally bug you. If you’ve had some of those “why on earth did I do that?” or “what is wrong with me?!” moments lately, you’re not the only one! Sometimes a hormone imbalance can be at the root of some of the most irritatingly persistent yet nonspecific symptoms that middle-aged women (and men!) can have.
Hormones are your body’s chemical messengers - and when even just one is out of balance, it can throw
everything off. We see this every day at our clinic: smart, capable people who’ve been trying everything to feel better, exercising and eating healthfully, but didn’t realize their hormones were quietly working against all of their efforts!
So how do you actually know if your hormones are out of whack? Let’s look at five common signs - and more importantly, what you can do about it.
1. You’re Exhausted… Even When You Sleep
Sure, we all get tired. But if you're waking up groggy, dragging through the day, and relying on caffeine to function - something more significant might be going on. Hormones like cortisol (your stress hormone), thyroid hormones, and even low testosterone (yes, in women too!) can impact your energy. Cortisol is our ‘fight or flight’ hormone but when we’re constantly stressed, this hormone can remain higher than it should for long periods of time. The result? Burnout.
According to the
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, often presents itself as fatigue, weight gain, and depression. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing these symptoms.
So, what do you do? Our #1 recommendation is to start with comprehensive hormone testing. This is almost always different than the traditional bloodwork that a primary care provider may suggest. At Unique Health we offer complete lab testing as well as hormone replacement therapy when necessary tailored to your needs right here in Green Cove Springs and for our patients in Jacksonville and surrounding areas. Feeling rested and focused again is possible - You can always
give us a call.
2. Mood Swings Are Taking Over
One minute you’re fine, the next you’re irritable, anxious, or in tears for no reason. If this is ringing a bell for you, estrogen, progesterone, and/or testosterone may be responsible. When these hormones fluctuate - like during perimenopause, postpartum, or times of extreme stress - your emotional balance can fluctuate with it.
Research indicates that fluctuations in estrogen levels are associated with an increased risk of depression in women, particularly during perimenopause and postpartum. While medication such as antidepressants can often be looked at for relief, by actually looking at the hormone levels and rebalancing them, we can work to bring emotional stability back into your life. Our hormone replacement clinic takes a whole-body approach, including hormone therapy, nutrition, and stress-reduction strategies that support both your mental and physical well-being.
3. You’re gaining weight and it’s not for obvious reasons
So, you’re eating well.. exercising.. and still seeing that stubborn number on the scale climbing or just plain refusing to budge. If this is the case, it might be time to think about if hormones are playing a role. Health concerns like Insulin resistance, low thyroid function, and high cortisol can all contribute to stubborn weight gain, particularly around your midsection. According to the
National Institute of Health, hormonal changes during menopause can be related to changes in increased central adiposity. Unique Health offers medically supervised weight loss support rooted in functional medicine, meaning we look at the “why” behind weight gain - not just the symptoms. Our plans can often include specific lab tests, hormone therapy, gut health support, and targeted lifestyle shifts based on your unique needs.
4. Your libido has taken a vacation
Low sex drive isn’t just about aging - it’s often about hormonal balance. Estrogen, testosterone, and even cortisol levels influence libido. If intimacy has started to feel like one more thing on your to-do list, your hormones could be working against you. This is one of the most common (and most fixable!) symptoms we treat. Hormone therapy, stress support, and lifestyle adjustments can reignite your energy and your connection - without it feeling forced or fake.
5. You feel bloated, foggy, or “off”
Sometimes, it’s not one glaring symptom but a combination of little things - bloating, brain fog, a tough time focusing, sleep issues, skin breakouts, or just feeling… off. Hormonal imbalances don’t always scream - they whisper. And they can affect your gut health, your sleep cycles, and how your brain functions. So, what can you do?
Don’t ignore the whispers. For the sake of your life’s enjoyment, your relationships, and your overall wellbeing! Our clinic provides full-spectrum support, from gut health optimization to
IV Hydration Therapy that replenishes nutrients many patients are deficient in.
There are answers, even if your regular labwork looks “fine”.
We know how frustrating it is to feel like no one’s listening. That’s why we take a functional medicine approach at our office in Green Cove Springs - We serve patients throughout Jacksonville and Northeast Florida - to help you finally get the answers (and the solutions) you’ve been looking for.
If all or some of this information resonated with you,
just give us a call. We are always happy to chat with you, answer your questions, and help you set up a consultation to get things started. Let us help you take the first step toward balance, clarity, and feeling like
yourself again!
