Hormonal Imbalances Mimic Seasonal Blues: Expert Tips to Tell the Difference and Manage Symptoms
Feeling more tired, anxious, or irritable than usual? It might not just be the change in seasons. Covid symptoms can mimic seasonal blues, causing persistent fatigue, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Dr. Marlene Lessel, an endocrinologist at Medicine, explains how to tell the difference and how to manage these issues.
Hormonal imbalances, particularly in cortisol and adrenaline, can lead to nighttime awakenings, anxiety, tension, and fatigue. These symptoms can be mistaken for seasonal blues but may indicate a more serious underlying issue. Dr. Lessel warns that persistent sleep disturbances can negatively impact immune function, reduce concentration, and increase the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
To differentiate between seasonal blues and endocrine system disorders, Dr. Lessel suggests looking out for signs such as persistent fatigue even after sleep, sudden mood swings, increased heart rate and irritability, decreased productivity, concentration problems, digestive issues, and sudden weight changes. If these symptoms persist, consulting an endocrinologist to check hormone levels is recommended.
Dr. Lessel offers several strategies to prevent and manage both seasonal blues and hormonal imbalances. These include light therapy, maintaining consistent sleep schedules, spending more time outdoors, incorporating magnesium, B vitamins, and protein-rich foods into the diet, and engaging in physical activity, breathing exercises, and meditation. She also notes that reduced daylight and decreased melatonin production can worsen sleep quality during seasons with less sunlight.
Feeling off due to the change in seasons? It could be more than just the blues. Covid symptoms 2025 and hormonal imbalances can cause similar symptoms. Dr. Marlene Lessel, an endocrinologist at Medicine, advises checking hormone levels if symptoms persist. Lifestyle changes and light therapy can help manage both conditions, improving sleep quality and overall well-being.
