Health
Do you have a hormonal disorder? Here are the signs
Balanced hormones are the foundation for a healthy body and mind. Produced in your endocrine glands, these chemicals travel around your body, like messengers, letting your organs and tissues know what to do. Some of your body’s core processes, such as your metabolism and reproduction, rely on your hormones working well. When they are out of balance, this can result in a hormonal disorder or hormonal imbalance.
As you age, you may experience some natural changes in your hormone levels. However, research suggests, major fluctuations can lead to a myriad of disorders and diseases. Women are more prone to these medical problems than men, although anyone can be affected by a hormonal imbalance. If you suspect that your hormones are out of whack, seeing a doctor is the next step. With that in mind, here are 20 of the most common signs.
Weight gain
Your weight and your hormones are intrinsically linked. Hormones including leptin, insulin, and sex hormones can have a direct effect on your hunger levels and how you store fat. If you have suddenly gained weight without drastically changing your lifestyle, that could be a cause for concern. Try keeping track of your weight changes and speak to a doctor.
Tiredness
Do you lack energy even when you’ve had a good night’s sleep? Unexplained fatigue could be symptomatic of an underactive thyroid gland. Put simply, this problem occurs when your thyroid fails to produce enough hormones for your body. It can be treated by taking daily hormone tablets, which will help balance things out. Speaking to your doctor about your sudden low energy levels is the first step toward getting help.
Acne
While many teenagers experience acne due to a surge in sex hormones, research from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests that women in later life can also experience this skin problem. One of the major causes for this issue is an imbalance of hormones. When you’re struggling with this problem, it’s important to get expert advice from either a dermatologist or your general doctor.
Irregular periods
Experiencing long gaps between your periods or having them more frequently than usual could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance. This change may mean that you have a hormonal problem such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid issues. When you notice that your period is irregular, see a medical professional sooner rather than later.
Increased thirst
Do you feel thirsty throughout the day? If you’re drinking enough water and can’t quench your thirst, there may be an underlying reason for that. Diabetes insipidus is a hormonal problem indicating that your kidneys are unable to retain water. While there may be a variety of reasons for your increased thirst, getting a consultation is vital.
Low sex drive
Many women experience a loss of libido or low sex drive as they age. One of the primary reasons for this change could be a decrease in estrogen levels, which is often linked to menopause. If you have suddenly started to have a lower sex drive than you once did, it’s worth speaking to your doctor about the causes of this issue.
Thinning hair
Around one-third of women experience thinning hair or hair loss at some point during their lives. This change can be caused by the overproduction of the androgen hormone. Should your hair start to get thinner as you get older, you may want to see your doctor about the problem and look for possible treatment plans.
Blurry vision
Changing levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause women’s eyes to become dry, which leads to blurry vision, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Needless to say, whenever you experience sudden changes in your eyesight, you have to speak to a medical professional or optician. If you suspect that your blurred eyesight is the result of a hormonal disorder, book an appointment with your doctor.
Depression
Depression is the result of a hormonal or chemical balance in the body, in medical terms. Naturally, there are many different factors that can play a role in why people experience bouts of depression throughout their lifetime. However, when you are struggling with mental health problems, it’s worth getting a professional’s opinion. You may find that a hormonal disorder is affecting your mental well-being.
Increased hunger
Feeling peckish? While hunger can naturally fluctuate, if you’re finding it hard to control your eating, your hormones could be the reason. Research from the Texas Biomedical Research Institute suggests that a hormonal disorder may trigger overeating in some people. If you have low levels of leptin in your body, you may experience more hunger. It’s worth speaking to your doctor about the problem.
Excessive hair growth
Up to 70% of women who have the hormonal disorder polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) experience excess hair growth. This growth usually affects areas including the face or chin. When you notice hair growing in irregular places, it’s worth seeing a doctor about the symptom. An expert will be able to give you a diagnosis.
Sensitivity to hot and cold
Feeling extra chilly or hot? While some people are naturally more sensitive to temperature, your hormones may play a role in this too. The Access Endocrine, Diabetes & Thyroid Center lists this as one of the most common symptoms of hormonal disorders. If you have suddenly started to feel the cold or heat more keenly, see a doctor about the issue.
Anxiety
Are you stressed or anxious? Research from the American Physiological Society suggests that low estrogen levels may be linked to anxiety in women. In turn, that could be linked to a hormonal disorder or imbalance. When you’re experiencing anxiousness, it’s always worth speaking to a doctor and getting a medical diagnosis.
Pink or purple stretch marks
Developing stretch marks on your skin may not always be a cause for concern. However, if you have suddenly developed pink or purple stretch marks that were not there before, you may want to speak to a doctor. The Access Endocrine, Diabetes & Thyroid Center highlights this sign as one of the most common side effects of a hormonal disorder.
Hyperactivity
Got too much energy to handle? If you have an excess of nervous energy, that may be a symptom of an overactive thyroid. You may find it hard to sit still for long periods, for example. When you notice this change in your energy levels, you may want to speak to a doctor about the problem and get a diagnosis.
Constipation
Feeling constipated? Research published in the Korean Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology suggests that higher levels of estrogen lead to a decrease in gastrointestinal movement, i.e. constipation. With that in mind, should you have a hormonal disorder that leads to an excess of estrogen, you may experience this problem. If you are having problems with your bowels, it’s worth speaking to a doctor or specialist.
Mood swings
Do you quickly change from happy to sad, or neutral to angry? If you’re experiencing rapid and unexpected mood swings, these may be symptomatic of a hormonal disorder. Having an overactive thyroid may lead to mood swings, for example. These symptoms may come on gradually or suddenly, depending on your condition. Either way, speak to a doctor.
Dry skin
If your skin has become drier than it once was, you may need to speak to a dermatologist or doctor about the problem. While the oiliness of your skin may fluctuate as you age, this sign could also be linked to a hormonal disorder. Getting some advice on this complaint will help you decide what the next steps are for you.
Fatty hump between your shoulders
If you notice a fatty hump between your shoulders on your upper back, you need to book an appointment with a doctor. This symptom is often linked to Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal disorder which means you have too much cortisol in your body. While the condition is uncommon, it’s worth checking with an expert to get a diagnosis. That way, you can get the treatment that you need as soon as possible.
MSN
Health
Fakeeh Health Achieves National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS) Institutional Accreditation for Residency Training
Fakeeh Health Achieves Institutional Accreditation from the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS) for Residency Training
Dubai, UAE – 13 July 2026
Fakeeh Health has been awarded the Institutional Accreditation by the National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS), reinforcing its position as one of the UAE’s academic healthcare providers and marking another important milestone in its commitment to postgraduate medical education and the development of future specialist physicians. Dr. Mohammed Al Houqani, Secretary General of NIHS, presented the Institutional Accreditation certificate to Fakeeh University Hospital (FUH), noting that this accreditation demonstrates FUH’s compliance with rigorous national standards in postgraduate medical education (PGME). He said he was delighted to see a private hospital actively contributing to healthcare workforce development, adding that academic hospitals play an important role in improving healthcare by integrating clinical care, education, research and continuous quality improvement. The accreditation has been awarded to Fakeeh Health, encompassing FUH together with its network of Fakeeh Medical Centers, recognizing the organization as an approved institution for PGME training in the United Arab Emirates. This achievement follows the successful accreditation of Fakeeh University Hospital’s Medical Internship Program.
The National Institute for Health Specialties (NIHS) is the UAE’s national authority responsible for regulating and accrediting postgraduate medical education and residency training. Institutions awarded NIHS Institutional Accreditation are recognized for meeting rigorous national standards in educational governance, faculty development, resident support, patient safety, clinical learning environments, quality improvement and competency-based medical education.
For Fakeeh Health, the accreditation represents far more than regulatory recognition. It reflects the strength of an integrated academic ecosystem designed to prepare the next generation of physicians through structured residency programs, multidisciplinary clinical exposure and a culture of continuous learning across its healthcare network.
The comprehensive accreditation process assessed multiple aspects of the organization’s educational framework, including institutional leadership and governance, faculty engagement, resident wellbeing, assessment systems, research opportunities, simulation-based education, patient safety, quality improvement initiatives and the overall clinical learning environment.
Since launching its postgraduate medical education programs in collaboration with Dubai Health Authority in 2021, Fakeeh Health has steadily expanded its academic portfolio. Through structured residency and internship programs, competency-based education, faculty development initiatives and simulation-enhanced learning, the organization continues to invest in preparing highly skilled physicians capable of meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the UAE.
Residents training within Fakeeh Health benefit from diverse clinical experiences across Fakeeh University Hospital and its network of Fakeeh Medical Centers, allowing them to gain exposure to primary, secondary and tertiary care while learning within a patient-centered environment that promotes teamwork, innovation and evidence-based practice.
The accreditation also supports the UAE’s long-term vision of developing a sustainable national healthcare workforce and further strengthens Dubai’s position as a regional centre for advanced medical education and specialist training.
Dr. Mazen Fakeeh, Chairman Fakeeh Health, said:
“At Fakeeh Health, we believe that shaping the future of healthcare begins with investing in people. Educating and mentoring the next generation of physicians is one of our greatest responsibilities, and this accreditation reflects years of commitment to building an academic environment where education, clinical excellence and innovation work together. We are proud to contribute to the UAE’s vision of developing a highly skilled healthcare workforce while continuing to raise the standards of medical education across the region.”
Dr. Mohaymen Abdelghany, Group CEO & Board Member Fakeeh Health, and CEO Fakeeh University Hospital, said::
“This accreditation is an achievement for every member of the Fakeeh Health family. It reflects the dedication of our physicians, educators, faculty members and support teams who have worked together to create an outstanding learning environment for future specialists. By investing in high-quality medical education today, we are helping shape the physicians who will care for the communities of tomorrow. We will continue expanding our academic programs, strengthening clinical training and creating opportunities that enable future healthcare professionals to thrive.”
Dr. Mazen Abou Chaaban, Designated Institutional Official (DIO), said:
“Institutional Accreditation is an important validation of the strength of our educational governance, faculty engagement and learning culture. More importantly, it confirms that we have created an environment where residents are supported academically, professionally and personally throughout their training. Our goal is not only to develop competent specialists, but also compassionate physicians who embrace lifelong learning, professionalism and patient-centered care.”
Fakeeh Health expressed its appreciation to the National Institute for Health Specialties for its guidance throughout the accreditation process and acknowledged the dedication of its physicians, faculty members, educators, administrators and support teams whose collective efforts made this achievement possible.
Looking ahead, Fakeeh Health will continue expanding its residency and postgraduate medical education programs while strengthening academic collaborations, research and innovation across its healthcare network. The organization remains committed to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals and supporting the UAE’s ambition to become a global leader in healthcare, medical education and clinical excellence.
About Fakeeh Health
Fakeeh Health is an integrated academic healthcare network comprising Fakeeh University Hospital and a growing network of Fakeeh Medical Centers across the UAE. By combining world-class patient care with medical education, research and innovation, Fakeeh Health is committed to developing future healthcare professionals while delivering exceptional, patient-centered care across every stage of the healthcare journey.
Academic Excellence at a Glance
NIHS Institutional Accreditation for Residency Training
NIHS-accredited Medical Internship Program
More than 600 undergraduate healthcare students trained annually
Structured residency, internship and clinical training programmes
Strong partnerships with leading national and international universities and healthcare institutions
Ongoing commitment to developing the UAE’s future healthcare workforce
For more information please visit our website:
Health
NMC Royal Hospital, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Successfully Treats Lifelong Complications from Childhood Surgery
Advanced Reconstructive Surgery Helps Patient Regain Normal Urinary Function After Years of Complications
Abu Dhabi, UAE – A specialist urology team at NMC Royal Hospital, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, led by Dr. Rami Labib, Urologist, has successfully helped a 30-year-old patient regain normal urinary function after years of complications linked to a surgery he underwent as a child.
For many years, the patient experienced difficulty urinating and persistent urine leakage through small openings along the penis. The condition significantly affected his daily life, causing discomfort, embarrassment and a loss of confidence.
The complications were related to hypospadias, a condition present at birth in which the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis. While hypospadias is commonly corrected during childhood and most patients achieve excellent long-term results, a small number may develop complications later in life that require further treatment.
After a detailed assessment, Dr. Labib identified narrowing of the urethra, known as a urethral stricture, along with abnormal passages that were causing urinary leakage. Imaging tests confirmed the diagnosis and helped the team plan the most appropriate treatment.
To restore normal function, Dr. Labib performed a highly specialised reconstructive procedure known as a buccal mucosal graft urethroplasty. The surgery used a small piece of tissue taken from the inside of the patient’s cheek to rebuild the damaged section of the urethra and close the abnormal openings responsible for the leakage.
Commenting on the case, Dr. Rami Labib said:
“Patients who experience complications years after hypospadias repair often face significant physical and emotional challenges. Every case is different and requires careful planning to achieve the best outcome. Modern reconstructive techniques allow us to restore normal urinary function and help patients return to their daily lives with greater comfort and confidence.”
The operation was completed successfully, and the patient made a good recovery. During follow-up visits, he reported being able to urinate normally without any leakage and described a substantial improvement in his overall quality of life.
Expressing his gratitude, the patient said:
“After years of struggling with urinary problems following multiple surgeries, I can finally urinate normally again without any leakage. I am extremely grateful to Dr. Rami and the entire medical team for restoring my confidence and giving me my life back.”
Dr. Labib noted that advances in reconstructive urology continue to improve outcomes for patients with even the most complex conditions. With expert assessment, personalised treatment plans, and modern surgical techniques, many patients can achieve long-lasting relief and return to everyday activities with confidence.
About NMC Royal Hospital
NMC Royal Hospital is one of Abu Dhabi’s leading tertiary healthcare institutions, providing comprehensive medical and surgical services through highly specialised clinical teams and advanced technology. The hospital offers expertise across a wide range of specialties, including reconstructive urology, with a commitment to delivering safe, high-quality, patient-centred care.
Health
Fakeeh University Hospital Brings New Hope to Patients with Complex Brain Conditions Through Advanced MRI-Guided Laser Neurosurgery
Russian teenager with high-risk brainstem tumour successfully undergoes minimally invasive laser treatment in Dubai
Dubai, UAE – June 2026 – Fakeeh University Hospital has successfully performed an advanced MRI-guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT) procedure on a 15-year-old patient from Russia suffering from a brainstem glioma, one of the most challenging and high-risk brain tumours encountered in neurosurgery.
The young patient travelled to Dubai after conventional oncology treatments failed to halt the progression of the disease. The tumour, located deep within the brainstem, had caused progressive neurological deterioration, including worsening motor deficits and paralysis, significantly affecting his quality of life and presenting a complex therapeutic challenge.
Following extensive multidisciplinary discussions involving neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, radiology, and rehabilitation specialists, the medical team at Fakeeh University Hospital carefully evaluated all available treatment options. Given the tumour’s location within one of the most delicate regions of the brain, traditional open surgery was associated with exceptionally high risks.
The brainstem controls many of the body’s most vital functions, including movement, breathing, heart rate, and consciousness. Surgical intervention in this area has historically carried substantial risks, including permanent paralysis, respiratory failure, and even cardiac arrest.
To minimize these risks while offering a potential treatment option, the team elected to perform MRI-guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT), a highly advanced minimally invasive neurosurgical technique increasingly used worldwide for carefully selected patients with deep-seated brain lesions.
The procedure was led by Dr. Tommaso Tufo, Consultant Neurosurgeon – Brain and Spine Surgery at Fakeeh University Hospital, using a stereotactic robotic-assisted approach. Through a small skin incision measuring only a few millimetres, a laser fibre was precisely implanted into the target area using advanced robotic guidance and neuronavigation technology.
The implantation phase lasted just over one hour, after which the patient was transferred to the MRI suite. Under continuous real-time MRI monitoring, laser thermal therapy was delivered over the course of approximately one to two hours, allowing surgeons to visualize the thermal effect in real time and precisely control the treatment zone throughout the procedure.
One of the most significant advantages of MRI-guided laser therapy is its ability to reach deep and difficult-to-access areas of the brain while minimizing disruption to surrounding healthy tissue. Real-time MRI thermal mapping provides exceptional precision, allowing surgeons to perform controlled volumetric reduction of tumours without the need for extensive surgical exposure.
Commenting on the case, Dr. Tommaso Tufo said:
“Brainstem tumours represent some of the most challenging conditions in neurosurgery because of their location within structures that control critical neurological and physiological functions. In this particular case, conventional treatment options had become limited, and traditional open surgery carried considerable risks. MRI-guided laser therapy allowed us to reach the lesion through a minimally invasive approach while maintaining a very high degree of precision and safety.”
He added:
“The successful treatment of this patient demonstrates the potential of modern laser neurosurgery to expand therapeutic options for carefully selected patients who may previously have had very limited alternatives. However, the true significance of this technology extends far beyond a single case.”
While the patient continues to undergo physiotherapy and additional oncological treatment as part of his ongoing care, he tolerated the procedure well and was able to resume mobility following treatment.
Dr. Tufo emphasized that MRI-guided Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy should be viewed within the broader context of modern neurosurgery rather than as a solution limited to rare brainstem tumours.
“Laser neurosurgery represents an important advancement in the treatment of selected brain tumours, drug-resistant epilepsy, radiation necrosis, and other complex intracranial conditions,” he explained. “The technology allows us to treat lesions located deep within the brain through a very small incision while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissue. Both adult and pediatric patients may benefit from this approach when conventional surgery presents excessive risk.”
Historically, many patients with drug-resistant epilepsy required open cranial surgery to access and remove seizure-causing areas of the brain. Today, in selected cases, MRI-guided laser ablation offers a less invasive alternative that combines precision, safety, and shorter recovery times.
For appropriately selected patients, the minimally invasive nature of the procedure may significantly reduce hospitalization and recovery periods, with some individuals able to return home on the same day or within 24 hours. More complex cases, particularly those involving critical brain structures, may require extended monitoring to ensure optimal neurological recovery.
The introduction of advanced MRI-guided laser neurosurgery further strengthens Fakeeh University Hospital’s position as a regional center of excellence for complex neurological and neurosurgical care. By combining advanced imaging, robotic guidance, and minimally invasive techniques, the hospital continues to expand access to innovative treatment options for patients facing some of the most challenging brain conditions.
About Fakeeh University Hospital
Fakeeh University Hospital is a leading academic medical center located in Dubai Silicon Oasis and part of Fakeeh Health. The hospital combines advanced clinical care, medical education, research, innovation, and digital health technologies to deliver world-class healthcare services. Through continuous investment in cutting-edge medical technologies and multidisciplinary expertise, Fakeeh University Hospital remains committed to advancing patient care and improving outcomes across a wide range of complex medical conditions.
For more information, visit: Fakeeh Health – Advancing Healthcare with Excellence
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