The hypothalamus regulates the functioning of the pituitary gland which in turn controls the adrenal glands, ovaries, testes and thyroid gland.
Furthermore the hypothalamus also controls various other functions like weight gain and appetite, sleep wake cycle, salt and water balance, lactogenesis in females, growth and development, emotions like anger and aggression, childbirth and thermal regulation.
In certain cases there may be a dysfunction of the hypothalamus that is caused by eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, excessive bleeding, and genetics and hereditary also play an important role in determining the functioning of the hypothalamus.
The presence of tumors, recurrent infections, radiation or surgery can also lead to trauma and dysfunction of the hypothalamus.
Hypothyroidism is a disorder that is linked to dysfunction of the hypothalamus as it is caused due to inadequate levels of the thryrotropin releasing hormone.
Some of the associated symptoms include cold changes in menstrual cycle in females, mental slowing, impotence in males, depression, cold intolerance, fatigue, hair and skin changes and mush more.
When there is low level of adrenal function it is symptomised by dizziness and weakness.
Kallman’s syndrome is also symtomised by decrease in the production of sexual hormones and lack of smell.
Various tests can be conducted in order to ascertain any dysfunction of the hypothalamus.
Blood or urine test that are used to determine the level of various pituitary hormones.
