“H” Hormonal Deficiences
Hormonal Deficiencies — The "H" in S.H.I.N.E.
The hypothalamus is also the main control center for most of the glands in your body. Most of the normal ranges for our blood tests were not developed in the context of hypothalamic suppression or these syndromes. Because of this (and for a number of other reasons) it is usually necessary, albeit controversial, to treat with thyroid, adrenal (very low dose cortef; DHEA), and ovarian and testicular hormones — despite normal blood tests! These hormones have been found to be reasonably safe when used in low doses. Growth hormone has also been shown to be helpful in fibromyalgia. We don’t always use it because, unfortunately, it can cost over $10,000 a year and is given by injection. Fortunately, there is a cheaper way to raise your low growth hormone. Most growth hormone is released during deep sleep, sex, and exercise. This may be another reason why getting 8 to 9 hours of deep sleep a night can be critical!
Because the blood tests miss most people who need natural hormonal support, treatment should be based predominantly on symptoms and not only on lab tests (See Lab Testing NOT Reliable!).
Thyroid
The thyroid is your body’s "gas pedal" and controls energy production. If you have CFS or fibromyalgia, I recommend a trial of natural Armour Thyroid by prescription in most cases. If you feel better on it, you need it. The TSH test your doctor may use is totally unreliable when hypothalamic dysfunction is present, so the medication should be adjusted as feels best to you, checking only the Free T4 blood test to be sure it stays in the normal range for safety. For milder but persistent fatigue, consider a trial of Armour Thyroid if you also have any of these low thyroid symptoms:
- Achiness
- Weight gain
- Brain fog
- Cold intolerance
- High cholesterol
- Infertility
Adrenal Exhaustion
The adrenal gland is your body’s stress handler and can get exhausted with chronic stress. Nonetheless, until it is so damaged that it can actually kill you, the blood tests will be normal. Consider adrenal support (see Adrenal Exhaustion) if you have chronic fatigue plus any of the below:
- Symptoms of low blood sugar (severe irritability when hungry)
- Chronic sore throats and respiratory infections
- Crash with stress
- Low blood pressure with dizziness on standing