Do you suffer from chronic pain? If so, you may also have a hormonal imbalance. People who suffer from long-term pain normally produce increased amounts of cortisol. Cortisol is a major stress hormone. Therefore, an excess of the chemical can trigger a number of health complaints, including the following:
- Recurring headaches
- Depression
- Obesity
- Osteoporosis
- Sleep disorders
- Immune deficiencies
Treating Osteoporosis
For instance, osteoporosis can develop if cortisol prevents the absorption of calcium. Osteoporosis affects the spinal bones, leading to pain and the risk of a fracture. In turn, patients who experience fractures often limit their movements to reduce the level of pain. That is why it is a good idea to schedule a hormonal balance evaluation in Costa Mesa, CA. This type of test is used in integrative pain medicine therapy.
Using Opioids for Pain Reduction
Sometimes, pain patients are prescribed opioids to reduce pain. When the medicines are used on a long-term basis, it often increases hormone imbalances. Again, it helps to have a hormonal balance evaluation if this type of scenario applies to you.
When hormones are evaluated, sophisticated testing methods are used. By obtaining the results for a hormonal balance evaluation, pain medicine experts can modify medication dosages or medication deliveries for better results. For instance, a patient’s opioid delivery may be targeted to reduce the amount given orally. This type of variance can lower hormonal side effects.
Interventional Procedures for Pain Management
Optionally, interventional procedures for pain management or non-opioid analgesics may be used to eliminate or reduce the dependence on opioids for pain. The objective is to precisely treat the pain and customize a therapy plan to the individualized needs of a patient. If hormonal side effects occur, the issue is addressed and treatment is modified. You can find out more about pain management and testing by contacting a clinic such as Aspire Pain Medical Center online. You can also like them on Facebook for more information.