In your initial exam, your endocrinologist may go over lab results and discuss your diagnosis. Osteoporosis. Reasons to See an Endocrinologist What to Expect at the Endocrinologist Hormones are chemicals controlled by your endocrine glands that help coordinate and control many of your body's. If your childs pediatrician or primary care physician suspects or diagnoses a condition related to hormones or glands that produce them, they may refer you to a pediatric endocrinologist. You have an enlarged thyroid gland, or goiter. The top 5 reasons to see an endocrinologist 1. Having obesity or being overweight is not the patients fault, obesity results from a complex biology whereby the body increases the amount of fat it wants to hold on to. The human endocrine system consists of several glands, which secrete chemicals known as hormones. General practitioners who are trained but do not have a specific specialty board certification, as well as nurse practitioners and physician assistants can also serve as primary care providers, she explains. For individuals of Asian ethnic background, risks of extra weight are observed at lower levels of body weight, so definitions of overweight (>23-24) and obesity (>27-28) differ in this population. Problems related to puberty or normal growth and development. Male hypogonadism is a combination of low testosterone levels and the presence of any of these symptoms: Over time, low testosterone may cause a man to lose body hair, muscle bulk, cause weak bones (osteoporosis), low red blood cells and smaller testes. Dr. Kathleen Wyne, an endocrinologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus says a great endocrinologist is a doctor whos detail-oriented, inquisitive and empathetic and also willing to approach a problem in a patient-centered manner that allows the patient to feel that they are a human being despite the fine details we need to discuss and evaluate., Theres often some sleuthing involved in the diagnosis and management of endocrine disorders, so Wyne adds that your physician should be willing to be a detective, to try to put pieces together to understand unusual diseases or unusual presentations of common disease., Dr. Joseph Barrera, an endocrinologist with Providence Mission Hospital in Orange County, California, adds that "several endocrine conditions require the deductive reasoning skills of Sherlock Holmes combined with the humanity and compassion of John Watson. For 100 years, the Endocrine Society has been at the forefront of hormone science and public health. Obesity | Endocrine Society What Is an Endocrinologist? What Does a Diabetes Doctor Do? - WebMD An endocrinologist is a healthcare provider who specializes in endocrinology, a field of medicine that studies conditions related to your hormones. Usually a primary care doctor can manage this condition, which is common and affects nearly five percent of Americans age 12 and older, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Studies show that people with a genetic predisposition to obesity may have greater difficulty losing weight with traditional changes to dietary patterns and regular exercise and may require medications or bariatric surgery to assist in weight management. Is Islet Cell Transplant Still a Promising Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes? Tags: doctors, patient advice, hormones, endocrinology. Are anti-obesity medications or bariatric surgery an option for me? Side effects: pellet coming out through skin, site infection/ bleeding (rare), dose decreasing over time and hypogonadism symptoms possibly returning towards the end of dose period. "Endocrinology basically encompasses glands any glands throughout the body will be under the purview of an endocrinologist," says Dr. David Bradley, an endocrinologist at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. Reducing activities that mainly involve sitting, such as screen time or driving, can also be beneficial. Endocrinologists, as the name suggests, are doctors specializing in the functioning of endocrine glands. 150 East 77th Street, Office 1D New York, NY 10075 |, Located just steps away from the 77th street subway stop on the 6 line, Endocrinologist for Cholesterol Disorders, Toggle the visibility of the Accessibility Toolbar, 150 East 77th Street, Office 1D New York, NY 10075. In other more complicated cases, such as with type 1 diabetes, your primary healthcare provider will recommend seeing an endocrinologist. *All indicated fields must be completed. These issues sometimes arise when children approach puberty, or when they are having issues growing and developing normally because certain hormones related to growth and development aren't in the right balance. To get a diagnosis of hypogonadism, you need at least two early morning (710 AM) blood tests that reveal low testosterone in addition to signs and symptoms typical of low testosterone. A common issue that is treated in this field is hypothyroidism. Endocrinologists' opinions of diabetology as a primary care subspecialty, Management of type 2 diabetes: evolving strategies for the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes, Pituitary diseases such as pituitary tumors or producing too much or too little pituitary hormones, Certified diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES): Professionals who can help you manage the things you need to do to take care of your diabetes. Your regular doctor can treat diabetes, but they might refer you to an endocrinologist when: You can always ask to go to an endocrinologist, too, even though your doctor doesn't suggest it first. For 100 years, the Endocrine Society has been at the forefront of hormone science and public health. Low testosterone levels: fatigue, hair loss, depression, and weakness may indicate problems with testosterone in men. While you may be diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes by your primary care provider, sometimes you may need to see an endocrinologist to help you manage your diabetes. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, so . They may involve a problem with the testes or with the signal from the brain that controls testosterone secretion. Research shows that genetics plays an important role in obesity. Side effects: uncomfortable, fluctuating symptoms. While a doctor is not required to become board certified as a pediatric endocrinologist to practice it, the training, education, and experience that comes with the certification boosts credibility and validates them in their field. Be open with your doctor about your medical history, all prescription and nonprescription drugs you are now taking, sexual problems, and any major changes in your life. Takeaway An endocrinologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats hormone-related problems and complications, such as an overactive thyroid, diabetes, and fertility issues. It is estimated that approximately 35% of men older than 45 years of age and 30-50% of men with obesity or type 2 diabetes have hypogonadism. If you've been taking medication to replace your thyroid hormone for a while but your symptoms persist, you might want to see an endocrinologist for a second opinion, says Cathy Doria-Medina, MD, an endocrinologist with HealthCare Partners Medical Group in Torrance, California. Pediatric Endocrine Society. Low thyroid levels can affect all of your organs, your brain included. Taking Your Premature Baby Home All You Need to Know, 37 weeks pregnant: Your baby is now as big as a stalk of swiss chard. However, there may be situations when you need the care of a thyroid specialist. And sometimes though its rare thyroid nodules actually cause hypothyroidism. When there is an imbalance or the endocrine glands are not working as they should, serious health problems can arise such as diabetes. Endocrinologists specializing in dealing with endocrine problems in children are known as pediatric endocrinologists. Incorporate physical activity in your everyday life, such as taking the stairs whenever possible, parking your car farther out in the parking lot, walking your pet, housework, engaging in gardening, or playtime with your young, loved ones. There are some hormone imbalances that can contribute to weight, such as hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid gland) or Cushings syndrome(high cortisol levels). ", National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: "Adrenal Insufficiency & Addison's Disease. Best Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Best Medicare Advantage Plan Companies 2023, Best Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan Companies 2023. This system produces hormones that regulate metabolism, reproduction, and homeostasis. Endocrine Connection Your provider may recommend yearly screening for autoimmune diseases. In fact, its possible for women to discover that they have anemia before they find out about the cause of it. Afterward, they work in hospitals and clinics as residents for 3 years to get experience treating people. How to Reduce Blood Sugar Levels Immediately. Its very unusual, but in some people, the pituitary gland fails to release the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), which stimulates the production of thyroid hormone. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Hormones are chemicals that coordinate different functions in your body by carrying messages through your blood to your organs, muscles and other tissues. Learn about the important questions to ask a dermatologist about skin diseases, including symptoms, causes, treatment options and prevention tips. Please include non-medical questions and correspondence only. Should you see an endocrinologist or a gynecologist to treat - Inspire Here are some tips on how to find a qualified and trustworthy pediatrician to take care of your child's health. Health problems related to the endocrine gland can be an issue for adults as well as children. Abnormal levels of thyroid hormone: it's possible to have too much (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism) thyroid hormone in your system. Diabetes. If you have one, see an endocrinologist to help you figure out why it has developed, and what treatment will help. One of my symptoms of excess T was my raging sex drive. Other times it's smart to see an endocrinologist are when: Symptoms of hypothyroidism dont get better despite treatment. 1) Diabetes mellitus Diabetes is the most common endocrine disorder in the United States. January 24, 2022 Obesity is a chronic (long-term) medical disease whereby the body carries too much body fat. Good news, now you can shop right away from wide range of products on Cloudnine Momeaze. B.O. Furthermore, not getting enough physical activity, genetic and early-life environmental factors, as well as life events such as illness, pregnancy, or menopause can alter the bodys ability to maintain a lower body weight. Everyday Health is among the federally registered trademarks of Everyday Health, Inc. and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. Your doctor may be able to suggest a different medication that has less effect on weight gain. Stress and a lack of sleep can also lead to obesity. Pediatric endocrinologists treat children and adolescents and are used to interacting with children and their families. U.S. News Doctor Finder is a directory that includes nearly all U.S. physicians, and you can narrow your search by specialty such as endocrinology and by location to find a doctor near you. Some women need between 25 percent to 50 percent more thyroid hormone while pregnant. 114 114 comments Best AlbertVonMagnus 2 yr. ago It means it's time to see an endocrinologist. The endocrine system controls and regulates many important functions, including breathing, growth, movement, sensory perception, and reproduction. Here, learn how to prevent hypothyroidism from interfering in the bedroom. This elevates the risk of fractures. "It's really a specialty of balance," and addressing issues when the body isn't making the right proportion of a certain hormone is the core of what these physicians do. Making sure to get regular exercise is also important to managing diabetes as is taking all medications as prescribed, even if you start to feel better. The whole process usually takes at least 10 years. A Closer Look at Osteoporosis from an Endocrinologists Perspective How to Find the Best Endocrinologist? | U.S. News Your primary care doctor should be able to help you monitor your condition most of the time. Should I see a registered dietitian? Learn how to avoid them, and get tips on managing food allergies. Take your blood glucose journal or logs with you, and let your endocrinologist know what's been going on with you. Most of these medications work in the brain, the organ which sets the about of fat your body wants to carry. Do not hesitate to take charge. Abnormal blood sugar levels, or symptoms such as excessive thirst, fatigue, weight gain or blurry vision: these are all symptoms of problems with insulin. Your diabetes has gotten tough to manage, or your treatment isn't working. University of Utah Health. . . Once a diagnosis is established, the doctor, you, and often your child will meet to discuss the diagnosis and the possible treatments. All rights reserved. Most people with hypothyroidismtake synthetic thyroid hormone replacement medication to make up for what the body isnt producing. Pediatric endocrinologists are trained to address these disorders at all stages of childhood from infancy through the teen years.