What is the function of hypothalamus?

Your hypothalamus, a structure deep in your brain, acts as your body’s smart control coordinating center. Its main function is to keep your body in a stable state called homeostasis. It does its job by directly influencing your autonomic nervous system or by managing hormones.

What are symptoms of hypothalamus problems?

Symptoms of hypothalamus disorders

  • sensitivity to heat.
  • anxiety.
  • feeling irritable.
  • mood swings.
  • tiredness and difficulty sleeping.
  • lack of sex drive.
  • diarrhea.
  • constant thirst.

Where is the hypothalamus located in the brain?

The hypothalamus is located on the undersurface of the brain. It lies just below the thalamus and above the pituitary gland, to which it is attached by a stalk. It is an extremely complex part of the brain containing many regions with highly specialised functions.

What causes hypothalamus problems?

Nutrition problems, such as eating disorders (anorexia), extreme weight loss. Blood vessel problems in the brain, such as aneurysm, pituitary apoplexy, subarachnoid hemorrhage. Genetic disorders, such as Prader-Willi syndrome, familial diabetes insipidus, Kallmann syndrome.

What happens if hypothalamus is damaged?

However, when the hypothalamus becomes injured, it can no longer control your temperature. Therefore, you may experience frequent hot or cold flashes. A prolonged increase in core body temperature can lead to further brain damage. That’s why it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible.

What doctor treats hypothalamus?

Which type of specialist treats diseases of the pituitary and hypothalamus? An endocrinologist specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of hormone problems. Generally, most conditions affecting the pituitary gland and hypothalamus can be treated.

Can hypothalamus be repaired?

Instead, treatment for hypothalamus damage involves replacing the lost hormones. Therefore, it is critical for all brain injury patients to have their hormone function tested by an endocrinologist. Some hormones your doctor might treat you with include: Vasopressin, which helps the body absorb more water.

What happens if the hypothalamus is damaged?

What diseases or disorders affect the hypothalamus?

What can damage hypothalamus?

There are several causes of hypothalamic dysfunction, which include:

  • Surgery.
  • Head injury.
  • Tumors.
  • Radiation.
  • Anorexia (eating disorders)
  • Extreme weight loss.
  • Tuberculosis.
  • Aneurysm (a weak area in the wall of the blood vessel that causes its bulging)