Endocrinology Specialist

What is endocrinology?

Endocrinology deals with hormones, the glands that produce them, and your metabolism. Your endocrine system includes your pancreas, hypothalamus, and thyroid, parathyroid, pineal, adrenal, and pituitary glands. It also includes the testicles, ovaries, and many other organs. Untreated endocrine problems can cause unpleasant symptoms.

Which conditions do endocrinologists treat?

Common conditions your endocrinologist diagnoses and treats include:

• Diabetes
• Pituitary or adrenal gland disorders
• Bone disorders
• Thyroid problems
• Growth hormone issues
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Low testosterone or estrogen
• Other hormone abnormalities

Getting your hormone levels within a normal range reduces unpleasant symptoms and your risk of complications.

What are the common symptoms of endocrine problems?

Common symptoms of hormone or metabolism problems include:

• Weight loss or weight gain
• Appetite changes
• Fatigue
• Sleeping problems
• Excessive hair growth
• Thinning hair
• Sexual dysfunction
• Infertility
• Extreme hunger or thirst
• Enlarged thyroid gland
• Excessive sweating
• Feeling cold
• Hair or skin changes
• Menstrual problems in women

Anytime you experience new or unusual symptoms, see the team at Associated Physicians Group, PLC for an evaluation.

How does my doctor diagnose endocrinology issues?

To determine if you have a problem with your hormones or endocrine glands, your provider at Associated Physicians Group, PLC checks your vital signs, discusses your medical history, and completes a physical exam (including a pelvic exam in women).

Your specialist could recommend that you have a blood test, ultrasound, and/or biopsy. X-rays or an MRI (or another imaging procedure) could also be used to explore the possible causes of your endocrinology problems.

How are endocrinology problems treated?

Depending on the kind of endocrinology problem you have and how severe it is, your provider at Associated Physicians Group, PLC may suggest one or more of the following:

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle changes that can help balance your hormone levels include losing weight, eating healthy foods, and getting plenty of sleep and regular exercise. Keep your stress levels as low as possible.

Medications

Taking prescribed medications can help you better manage chronic diseases like diabetes, thyroid disorders, PCOS in women, and more.

Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy is a treatment in which you take synthetic hormones to increase low levels and reduce unpleasant symptoms. Examples include testosterone therapy in men and estrogen replacement therapy in women.

Surgery

If you have endocrine cancer or other problems with an endocrine gland, surgery will usually be the best choice for treating you.

Call the office to schedule an appointment with Associated Physicians Group, PLC today.