HPA Dysregulation - From a TCM Perspective: Case Study
Adrenal Fatigue is a medical condition where the adrenal glands are unable to produce adequate amounts of the hormones necessary for proper bodily function. The inadequate production of hormones results in changes in the body’s ability to metabolize carbohydrate, protein and fat molecules, fluid and electrolyte balance, heart and cardiovascular system and libido. The result of this imbalance is due to Adrenal Stress.
Those suffering from adrenal fatigue may not suffer from visible symptoms. Not having visible symptoms often makes it more difficult for those that suffer from adrenal fatigue to seek the appropriate help. Individuals suffering from adrenal fatigue may appear to be generally healthy, yet basic physiological function may be impeded and the long-term effects, if gone unaddressed, can be detrimental.
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) dysregulation has recently been linked as the underlying cause to several acute and chronic conditions & diseases. 1 Neurohormone systems regulate the maintenance of homeostasis and allostasis during stress and are a fundamental subject in the understanding of neuroendocrine function. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) is the main stress response system. It is the neuroendocrine link between perceived stress and physiological reactions to stress. Imbalances within the HPA can result in impaired cognitive function, neurological decline or dysfunction, lowered immune function and response, libido dysfunction, weight gain due to insulin and leptin resistance and disturbed thyroid function.
Many people suffer from HPA dysregulation and are grossly unaware. Due to hyper arousal states that include constant connection with technology, over-work, over-training and over-stimulation, it is almost impossible to avoid HPA dysregulation without creating a deliberate intention to do so. Dietary regimen also has an impact on HPA dysregulation. 10 Dietary regimens laden with processed food, high fat and sugar, caffeinated drinks, nicotine, alcohol and an imbalance in micronutrients that are essential for cellular health are impactful on neurohormone systems. Hypothalamus and pituitary hormones are stimulating hormones necessary for growth, tissue repair and intracellular regeneration. Adrenal hormones regulate stress response, energy production, blood sugar balance, sugar and fat metabolism, electrolyte balance and natural sleep patterns. HPA dysregulation impedes the body’s normal neurohormonal response.
The fundamental principle of health in Traditional Chinese Medicine is the concept of Yin and Yang balancing. The human body contains both Yin and Yang Qi. The relaxed Yin cycles balance out the adrenal Yang cycles (think anabolism vs. catabolism). Problems begin to arise when excess of either Yin or Yang influences our physiology. In Traditional Chinese Medicine the adrenal glands are part of the water element and relate to kidney energy. The kidneys are seen as the single most important organ affecting the length and quality of life. A deliberate lifestyle change would be necessary for a patient suffering from HPA Dysregulation to reach their goals and to eventually heal from the branch conditions that are the result of their root diagnosis.
Click Here to Read Clinical Case Study Written by Dr. Molina
Micronutrient Deficiencies Effecting Adrenal Fatigue
Functions
Symptoms
