Endocrinologist

Endocrinologist consultation

Endocrinology

What is endocrinology, and which functions of the human body does it cover?

Endocrinology is a branch of medicine that deals with the treatment of diseases related to disorders of the endocrine glands, as well as the hormones these glands produce. The field has been developing rapidly in recent years, as specialists' work has revealed links between problems in the endocrine system and other human organs.

One important part of the field is diabetology. This area has become distinct from general endocrinology because of new data on the causes of diabetes mellitus and its effect on the overall functioning of the body.

The endocrine system in our body includes the endocrine glands: the thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, sex glands, and thymus, as well as the adrenal glands, the paraganglia, and the hypothalamic-pituitary system.

The body's glands produce hormones, which even in small amounts strongly affect the overall functioning of the whole body and of certain organs in particular. Hormones are released directly into the body's internal environment (blood, lymph, and tissue fluid). For the body to work fully, it needs a certain amount of hormones and their proper delivery.

If a gland produces an abnormal amount of hormones, endocrine diseases develop. It does not matter whether more or less than normal is released. Production of an abnormal hormone also causes disease.

An endocrinologist is a specialist who diagnoses and then treats these diseases. An endocrinologist can also help prevent diseases and their consequences from developing.

What does an endocrinologist do?

Identifies disorders in the body related to a malfunction of the endocrine system.
Determines the treatment plan for the disease. For some diseases, the course of treatment is determined together with other specialists (gynecologists, urologists, dietitians).
Monitors the course of treatment and adjusts it as progress occurs.
Plans preventive measures aimed at avoiding hormonal imbalances and the consequences they cause.

An endocrinologist diagnoses and treats the following health problems:

diabetes mellitus of all types;
diseases involving thyroid dysfunction (nodular goiter, hypothyroidism, thyrotoxicosis, iodine deficiency, and others);
metabolic disorders;
obesity of varying degrees;
imbalances in hormone production;
gynecologic endocrine conditions (infertility, menopausal symptoms, etc.);
other diseases related to dysfunction of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus.

When should you see an endocrinologist?

If you are overweight (including obesity) or develop metabolic syndrome.
If you feel weakness throughout your body along with unexplained drowsiness, and notice memory decline, sensitivity to cold, and numbness in your limbs.
If you develop unexplained irritability, with nervousness and sudden tearfulness, or a depressed state.
If you notice changes in the shape of your neck or feel discomfort in it.
If you notice a disturbance in your heart rhythm, shown by constant or periodic palpitations.
If you have sensations of heat and internal trembling.
Hair loss.
If you develop constant dry mouth with thirst and frequent urination, especially at night.

Who is strongly advised to consult an endocrinologist:

Women in early pregnancy, as well as women planning a pregnancy.
People whose close relatives have a history of diseases related to endocrine disorders. You should also pay attention to any family history of early strokes and heart attacks.
If you live in areas with elevated radiation or near military training grounds.
People who have reached age 35, to monitor blood glucose (once every 2-3 years is enough). If you are overweight, once a year.
After age 55, screening for osteoporosis is recommended.

To make an appointment with an endocrinologist at Alt-Med,

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