Endocrinology
Endocrinologists care for conditions including diabetes, thyroid diseases, metabolic disorders, over or under production of hormones, menopause, osteoporosis, hypertension, cholesterol (lipid) disorders, infertility, lack of growth (short stature) and cancers of the endocrine glands. They are trained to diagnose and treat imbalances of the hormones, restoring normal balance in your system.
Depending on the gland involved, symptoms of endocrine disorders can vary. Most patients complain, though, of fatigue and weakness. Blood and urine testing can reveal hormone levels, helping our physicians determine if you have an endocrine disorder. Likewise, imaging may be done.
Common conditions include:
Thyroid Disease
The improper function of the thyroid gland and the hormones it produces. The most common issues are the overproduction of the hormone in the Thyroid which is hyperthyroidism and underproduction which is hypothyroidism, normally treated with medication prescribed by your doctor. Depending on the severity of your thyroid issues, you may need more intensive treatment.
Pituitary Disorders
The pituitary gland is a small gland at the base of your brain. It is considered the "master control gland" because it makes hormones that affect growth and the functions of other glands in the body. Conditions of dysfunction of the pituitary gland may include acromegaly, Cushing's syndrome, hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), and hypogonadism (low sex hormone levels). Pituitary disorders can be treated with different medications and hormone treatments prescribed by your doctor.
Adrenal Disorders
The adrenal glands are at the top of each of your kidneys and produce hormones that help the body control blood sugar, burn protein and fat, react to stressors, and regulate blood pressure. Two of the most important adrenal hormones are cortisol and aldosterone. The adrenal glands produce adrenaline and small amounts of sex hormones called androgens, amongst other hormones. Adrenal disorders can occur by either too much or too little of a particular hormone being produced.
Metabolic Disorders
Metabolic disorders can be inherited and are genetic conditions that result in different metabolism problems. Many people who have inherited metabolic disorders have a defective gene that results in an enzyme deficiency. A metabolic disorder occurs when abnormal chemical reactions in your body disturb your metabolism process. When you have a metabolic disorder you might have too much of some substances or too little of other ones that you need to stay healthy.